Sassoon Building

Introducing Sassoon Building

The Sassoon Building, located at No. 20, Zhongshan East 1st Road, on the Bund , was built between 1926 and 1928 on the site of a five- story Western-style house owned by the New Sassoon Company . Upon completion, it was named the Sassoon Building (now the North Building of the Peace Hotel). It is one of the outstanding buildings in the modern Bund complex and was constructed by the New Renji Construction Company.

The Sassoon Building embodies the Chicago School of Design, a style popular in the United States at the time. Its form, composition, and decorative details were significantly simplified. The 19- meter-high dark green pyramid marks a turning point in the history of Bund architecture, marking the beginning of the Bund's transition from neoclassicism to Art Deco.

Floors 2 through 4 of the building housed offices, rented to foreign companies, import-export banks, and international radio stations. Sassoon & Co. and several of its subsidiaries occupied the 4th floor. Floors 5 through 7 housed the Cathay Hotel's guest rooms, each with its own distinctive design: the 5th floor offered German, Indian, Japanese, and Spanish-style rooms; the 6th floor contained American, French, and Italian-style rooms; and the 7th floor offered Chinese and British-style rooms. The 8th floor housed a large bar, dance hall, and Chinese restaurant; the 9th floor housed a nightclub and bistro; and the 10th floor housed Victor Sassoon 's exquisitely appointed English-style residence, complete with a large dining room within the Pyramid Room.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Sassoon Building

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Sassoon Building was constructed in the early 1920s and was originally the headquarters for the Sassoon family, a prominent Jewish family involved in trade and finance. This grand building is an example of the "Art Deco" style that was popular during Shanghai's period of international influence. It stands as a reminder of the city's colonial past and its architectural heritage.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Sassoon Building is located along the Bund, in the Huangpu District of Shanghai. You can reach it by taking Metro Line 2 to East Nanjing Road Station, which is a short walk to the building. Alternatively, taxis and buses are widely available, and the Bund is a popular walking destination.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Sassoon Building is a historical site with limited visitor access. The best time to visit is during the day, as the building is best viewed from the outside. It's recommended to visit in the early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds, especially if you plan to walk along the Bund afterward.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

As of now, the Sassoon Building itself does not have an entrance fee or tickets for general access, as it is primarily a historical structure that can be admired from the outside. No tickets are required unless you are entering specific exhibitions, if available.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

There is no need to book tickets in advance for general visits as the building is open to the public for exterior viewing. If you plan on attending a special event or exhibition inside, it's advisable to check in advance for any required reservations.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore the Sassoon Building in 30 minutes to an hour, primarily focusing on appreciating the exterior and nearby surroundings. If you're walking along the Bund, plan for more time to explore the nearby landmarks.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights are the architectural details of the building's facade, including its Art Deco style. While the interior is not generally open to the public, the building's exterior is an excellent representation of early 20th-century design.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are not commonly offered at the Sassoon Building, as it is primarily a historical structure to be viewed from the outside. However, private tours of the Bund area may include information about the Sassoon Building and its significance in Shanghai's history.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are along the Bund, where you can capture the Sassoon Building's historic exterior against the backdrop of modern Shanghai. The Bund's promenade also provides excellent panoramic views of the building and surrounding landmarks.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

As the Sassoon Building is primarily a historical building for exterior viewing, there is no specific route to follow inside. However, after viewing the building, you can take a walk along the Bund to explore nearby historical buildings and enjoy the waterfront views.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

The Sassoon Building is best viewed during the daytime, but it also looks impressive when illuminated at night. While there are no special tours or light shows specifically for the building, the Bund area offers a beautiful view of Shanghai's skyline at night.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Bund area can be crowded, particularly on weekends and holidays. To avoid large crowds, it's best to visit early in the morning or on weekdays during non-peak hours.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are public restrooms located near the Bund. For food and water, there are several cafes and restaurants along the Bund and nearby streets. Shops and souvenir stores are available around the Bund area as well.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The Bund area, including the Sassoon Building, is accessible to elderly and disabled visitors, with paved walkways and benches available for resting. The park and promenade along the Bund are suitable for children as well.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted in the area, especially at cafes, restaurants, and shops. Cash is less commonly used, but it is still accepted in some smaller shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby restaurants include The Bund area’s renowned establishments, such as M on the Bund, Mr & Mrs Bund, and the rooftop bar at The Peninsula Shanghai for fine dining with scenic views of the Huangpu River.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, several nearby restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options. For example, vegetarian and vegan-friendly menus are available at restaurants like Vegetarian Lifestyle and Jade on 36.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several luxury hotels near the Sassoon Building, such as The Peninsula Shanghai, Waldorf Astoria, and the Fairmont Peace Hotel, all located along the Bund.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Oriental Pearl Tower, Yuyuan Garden, and Nanjing Road. All are within a short walk or taxi ride from the Bund, making them great additions to a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenir shops along the Bund sell items like Shanghai-themed postcards, traditional Chinese crafts, tea sets, and local snacks. There are also upscale boutiques in the area.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the Sassoon Building, you can continue your trip by taking Metro Line 2 from East Nanjing Road Station, or by walking to nearby attractions like Yuyuan Garden or Nanjing Road. Taxis and buses are also available for further exploration.