The Bund in Shanghai

The Bund or Wai Tan is one of the most remarkable landmarks of Shanghai, a major city and financial hub in China. It is located in Huangpu District and stretches 1.5 kilometers from the Waibaidu Bridge in the north to Yan’an Road in the south, crossing the Suzhou Creek. The architecture of the buildings here transports you to the golden age of old Shanghai. The mile-long stretch of buildings on the western bank of the Huangpu River is a highlight of visiting this amazing oriental city. It offers a breathtaking view of the majestic Oriental Pearl TV Tower, a 468-meter-long radio and TV tower that defines the Shanghai skyline on the eastern bank.

History of the Bund Shanghai: In the first half of the 19th century, the Bund was marshy land along the Huangpu River. Shanghai was a small coastal town. After the First Opium War in 1842, Shanghai became an open port and the Bund was the initial settlement of the British fleet. Many foreign nations, including France, Japan, the USA, Italy, Russia, Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium, established consulates and buildings in their unique architectural styles. This made Shanghai one of the busiest cities in the oriental world from the second half of the 19th century onwards. The arrival of different colonial powers and the construction of various buildings in unique styles have made Shanghai a cosmopolitan city today. The Bund reflects Shanghai’s colonial era and is an exhibition of various architectural forms.

Things to do at the Bund: There are many activities to enjoy at the Bund when visiting Shanghai. 1. Day walks through the Bund. 2. Shanghai Bund Night view. 3. Shanghai Lujiazui: glitzy financial district. 4. Huangpu River cruise. 5. Morning at the Bund. 6. Shopping at the Bund. 7. Bars & Restaurants to get the best view.

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The Bund is a must-visit destination in Shanghai. You can take a day walk through the 1.5-kilometer stretch of the Bund and explore the amazing architectural treat and rich history. A typical day walk takes around 2 to 3 hours. Start early in the morning for a healthy jog, which is preferred by locals as it gets crowded during the day. Begin at the Waibaidu Bridge on the north side and explore historical buildings like the Astor Hotel, the old British Consulate, and the Peace Hotel. Witness architectural styles including Romanesque Revival, Gothic Revival, Eclecticist, Renaissance Revival, Baroque Revival, Chinese, Neo-Classical, and Art Deco. There are also beautiful sightseeing places such as the 1700-meter-long Lovers’ Wall, the Bund History Museum, and Huangpu Park.

Although the day view of the Bund is phenomenal, the night view is breathtaking. Buildings are closed for entering at night, but they are well-lit, offering an amazing view. The best place to get this view is on the west side of East Zhongshan No. 1 Road or the elevated Promenade on the banks of the Huangpu River. The fountain at the end of the Bund illuminated with multi-colored lights is a treat for the eyes at night. Some of the best lit buildings include the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Building, the Peace Hotel, the Bund Financial Center, and the Customs House. You can also go to the Lujiazui region in the evening to enjoy the sunset over the Bund. A night stroll through the Bund is highly recommended and relaxing. A romantic night walk through the Waibaidu Bridge is a great option for couples as it offers a breathtaking view of the Shanghai skyline in the Pudong area and the well-lit buildings of the Bund.

The Luijazui region embodies the modern architectural marvel of Shanghai. Prominent buildings in this area include the Shanghai Tower (632 metres, the second tallest building in the world after Burj Khalifa), the Shanghai World Financial Center (one of the most beautiful modern buildings with a trapezoid aperture at the top, 492 metres, the eleventh tallest building in Asia), and the Jin Mao Tower (421 metres). Together, they are three of the tallest skyscrapers in Asia standing adjacent to each other. All these buildings are well lit at night, especially the Oriental Pearl Tower, which is lit up by well-synchronized LED light sequences every night.

A visit to the Bund in Shanghai is truly an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for historical landmarks, scenic cruises, morning activities, shopping, or great bars and restaurants, the Bund has it all.

First, getting to Lujiazui from the Bund is convenient. These landmarks are less than 3 kilometers away if you choose to walk or take a cab.

Second, the Huangpu River cruise is a must-do. Several companies offer cruises along the beautiful river. You’ll get a breathtaking view of the old financial business district of the Bund with its colonial architecture on one side and modern skyscrapers and the Oriental Pearl Tower on the other. Cruises are usually 50 minutes long and cover the northern to southern parts of the Bund. You can board from the Shiliupu Pier or the Qinhuangdao Pier between 11 AM and 9.30 PM. It’s highly recommended to take the cruise at night to enjoy the well-lit Bund and Lujiazui skyline. At just 120 Yuan, it’s worth a try!

Third, mornings at the Bund are beautiful. You can do exercises by the Huangpu River, watch locals exercise, ride bikes, and fly kites. You can also witness Kung Fu or Tai Chi practices. Join an unofficial Tai Chi class for a unique experience. Don’t forget your camera for a sunrise picture over the Shanghai skyline.

Fourth, shopping at the Bund is a paradise. World-renowned designers have outlets here, making it a fashion shopper’s holy grail. Brands like Giorgio Armani, Dolce and Gabbana, Cartier, Prada, Ralph Lauren, and Ermenegildo Zegna are available. There are also authentic Chinese artisanal brands for silk slippers and porcelain tableware. Classy shopping malls like Bund18 and Three on the Bund offer luxury shopping. If that’s not your thing, Nanjing East Road has brands like Burberry, H&M, Forever 21, Nike, and United Colours of Benetton.

Finally, the Bund has some of the best bars and restaurants in Shanghai. Enjoy fine dining or a glass of wine on the rooftop while admiring the wonderful night view.

Discover the allure of Shanghai’s most iconic landmark, The Bund, with its stunning architecture and vibrant nightlife.

Sir Elly’s Terrace at the Peninsula Hotel offers a 270-degree evening experience with magnificent panoramas over the city.

Bar Rough provides a fantastic night view and a lively nightlife scene.

Wet Bar at the W Shanghai is a seasonal poolside bar with a decent menu, perfect for a relaxed evening.

Flair, atop the Ritz Calton, elevates al fresco dining with views of the Pearl Tower, The Bund, and Hongkou shore.

Accessing The Bund is convenient with multiple options:

– Take the subway (lines 2 or 10) to East Nanjing Road Station and walk east along Nanjing East Road for about 600 meters.

– Board a bus to East Zhongshan 1st Road, East Nanjing Road, East Yan’an Road, or Hankou Road and walk a short distance. Common bus lines include 147, 305, 307, 330, 123, 135, 145, 576, 42, 71, 311, and 316.

– The City Sightseeing Line 1 Bus offers a direct route to The Bund.

– The Sightseeing Channel is an automated carriage service through a tunnel under the Huangpu River, connecting Lujiazui to The Bund in just 3 minutes.

– Ferries ply between piers on the Huangpu River every 15 minutes, providing a scenic way to reach The Bund.

Visiting The Bund comes with useful tips:

1. Enjoy a variety of dining options, from high-end restaurants like The House of Roosevelt and Dragon Phoenix to quick snack places, though they tend to be pricey. Consider packing food and water for a budget visit.

2. The best time for night views is from 7 PM to 11 PM from May to October and 6 PM to 9 PM from November to April.

3. Pay-per-use toilets are available, and hotels can be used in emergencies.

4. Capture the best photos from the Monument to the People’s Heroes, the rooftop bar at the Fairmont Peace Hotel, and the Promenade, which also feature eco-friendly mobile charging units.

5. Couples should not miss the sunset on the Waibaidu Bridge for a romantic evening.

6. Beware of strangers offering services or products to avoid scams and fraud. Avoid buying from street hawkers.

7. If time allows, visit Astor House Hotel, the Bund History Museum, and Union Church.

8. Always try to visit The Bund at night for a different perspective on its landmarks.

Experience the stunning, illuminated views of the Lijuazui region and the Bund at night. For an exceptional dinner and a panoramic night view of the Shanghai skyline, visit Hakkanan in Building Number 18.

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