Bank of China Building

Introducing Bank of China Building

The Bank of China Building occupies a land area of ​​5,075 square meters and has a construction area of ​​32,548 square meters. With a rectangular plan and steel-frame structure, it consists of two sections, front and back. The front, or main building on the east side, is 17 stories (including a two-story basement); the rear section, with a central section of 8 stories and two façades of 6 and 4 stories, is reinforced concrete and constructed in the Early Modern architectural style. The exterior walls are clad in smooth granite, with a facade dominated by vertical lines. Square window openings are arranged neatly in a vertical arrangement, with a central protrusion and two sides adorned with openwork longevity motifs. The roof is a square-shaped peaked roof with a central knotted roof, covered in dark green glazed tiles, and has a gently sloping roof.

The Bank of China Building is a three-story Baroque-style building. It was built in 1908 with funds raised by German expatriates in Shanghai. It has a brick and wood structure and was designed by the German firm of Baker & Co. It is the only building among the many buildings on the Bund that was designed and built by the Chinese themselves.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate; The Bank of China Building is a three-story Baroque building. It is the only building among the many buildings on the Bund that was designed and built by the Chinese themselves. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Admire the Baroque architectural style inside and outside the Bank of China Building;

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Bank of China Building

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

The Bank of China Building in Shanghai is a significant landmark, reflecting the city’s rapid development in the 20th century. Originally completed in the 1930s, it stands as a symbol of Shanghai’s position as a global financial hub. It has been a focal point for Shanghai's banking and economic growth.

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

The Bank of China Building is located in the heart of Shanghai’s financial district, near the Bund. It is accessible by metro (Line 2 to Nanjing East Road Station), bus, taxi, or on foot from the nearby scenic spots along the Bund.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The building itself does not have regular public visiting hours, but the observation deck is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon or evening to enjoy sunset views and the illuminated city skyline.

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

Tickets for the observation deck are approximately 50 CNY. Tickets can be bought on-site, and some online platforms may offer packages for tourists. It’s best to check availability beforehand for special events or promotions.

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

Advance booking is not necessary, but for special events or during peak tourist seasons, booking tickets a few days in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Most visitors spend around 1 to 2 hours exploring the building and enjoying the view from the observation deck. If combined with nearby attractions, you might spend longer in the area.

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

The main highlight is the observation deck with stunning views of the Bund, Pudong skyline, and the Huangpu River. Visitors also enjoy the building’s architecture and its place in Shanghai’s history.

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

Guided tours are available on request and typically conducted in Mandarin, though English-speaking guides may be arranged for larger groups. Audio guides are generally not provided, but some informal tours are offered by staff.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The observation deck offers the best photography spots, with panoramic views of the city, particularly of the Bund, Pudong skyline, and the famous Oriental Pearl Tower. Evening shots of the illuminated skyline are also popular.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by entering the Bank of China Building’s main lobby to explore the architecture. Then proceed to the observation deck for the best views. Afterward, you can explore the surrounding financial district or take a stroll along the Bund.

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

Night visits are not available for the building itself, but the observation deck offers spectacular views of the city at night, including the bright lights of the Bund. There are no regular light shows, but the skyline lights are impressive after dark.

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

The Bank of China Building can get crowded during peak tourist seasons or weekends. The best times to visit are early mornings on weekdays or late afternoons for a quieter experience.

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

Facilities inside the building include restrooms and a few retail shops. Food and drink are not available in the building, but nearby cafes and restaurants offer a wide range of options.

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

The Bank of China Building is accessible to elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators available for easy access to the observation deck. The ground floor is stroller-friendly as well.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted. Cash is not required for most purchases in the building or nearby shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

While there are no restaurants inside the Bank of China Building, nearby areas such as the Bund offer a variety of dining options, including cafes, international restaurants, and high-end dining experiences.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, nearby restaurants offer a wide variety of vegetarian, vegan, and halal options, particularly in the international dining spots near the Bund.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several luxury hotels nearby, including the Fairmont Peace Hotel, The Peninsula Shanghai, and the Waldorf Astoria, all within walking distance of the Bank of China Building.

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

Nearby attractions include the Bund, Nanjing Road, Oriental Pearl Tower, and Shanghai Tower. These can all be easily combined in a day trip for a comprehensive Shanghai experience.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available in nearby tourist areas, where visitors can purchase traditional Chinese items such as tea, silk products, and Chinese calligraphy artworks.

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

Public transportation options include metro (Line 2 to East Nanjing Road or Nanjing East Road Station) and taxis. Walking around the Bund area is also a great option for sightseeing after your visit.