a city skyline at night
All attractions

The Bund

Shanghai, China
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a city skyline at night

Photo by D Z

Rising proudly along the western bank of the Huangpu River, The Bund stands as Shanghai’s historic stage, where stories from a century ago meet the pulse of modern city life. Grand facades glow at night, neon reflections shimmer on the water, and locals mingle with travelers in a place that has always been about connection. Each step reveals both glamour and grit—part open-air museum, part lively riverside promenade. Here, Shanghai feels both familiar and extraordinary.

Visiting Info

Currency
Entrance fee
Free

Contact Information

Location
Address
Zhongshan Rd (E-1), Waitan, Huangpu, Shanghai, China, 200002

Planning your visit

Visiting The Bund requires only some basic planning. The riverside walkway stays open day and night, with most visitors arriving in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views and evening lights. Expect crowds at dusk or on weekends, since locals also cherish this shared city space. Reaching The Bund is easy thanks to Shanghai’s smooth public transport. Families with strollers or visitors with mobility needs will find wide, flat pavements and plenty of benches, though weekends can feel busy. No ticket is needed to stroll the riverbank, but special tours or river cruises may need booking.

  • Best time to visit: Evenings for light shows; early mornings for fewer people
  • How to get there: Metro Line 2 to East Nanjing Road; taxis and buses stop nearby
  • Accessibility: Ramps, wide paths, frequent benches; can be crowded on weekends
  • Average visit duration: 1.5 to 3 hours, more if exploring river cruises or nearby museums

Must see stuff

The Bund’s charm comes from its mix of classic architecture, sweeping river views, and happening side streets. Tall art deco buildings line the waterfront, each with its own dramatic history—from once-bustling banks to colonial hotels. Between the grand facades, small alleys lead to local noodle shops and hidden teahouses. Farther south, Yuyan Garden’s lively corner marks the city’s ancient roots, while the promenade itself stays busy with artists, musicians, and early-morning dancers. Some experiences stand out above the rest—for both first-timers and seasoned city wanderers.

  • Key sights or features: Historic Peace Hotel, Customs House clock tower, HSBC Building’s domed roof, memorial statues, riverside gardens
  • Unique experiences: Evening light show across Pudong skyscrapers, morning tai chi sessions, short river ferry rides for city panoramas
  • Photo-worthy locations: Waibaidu Bridge at sunrise, rooftop terraces overlooking the skyline, sidewalk murals and carvings along Fuzhou Road
  • Cultural or historical facts: The Bund’s buildings housed foreign consulates, banks, and trading companies in the early 1900s; today, original details remain—look for brass plaques, stone lions, and carved doorways that tell their own stories

Tips for your visit

While The Bund never fully sleeps, smart planning helps visitors make the most of its sights and stories. Early birds get rewarding river views free from crowds. Comfortable walking shoes and a water bottle keep the pace pleasant, while evening visitors will want a camera ready for Shanghai’s famous skyline. Sidewalks bustle at rush hour and weekends, so off-peak slots feel more relaxed. Visitors should stay aware of their bags, especially near busier viewing areas. Local etiquette asks for respectful photo habits, especially around dancers, musicians, and elders practicing tai chi in the mornings.

  • Best times to avoid crowds: Weekday mornings or late nights (after 10pm)
  • What to bring: Water, walking shoes, a camera or phone, light jacket for breezy riversides
  • Local etiquette or rules: Don’t photograph people without asking, avoid picnicking on grass, keep the promenade tidy
  • Safety or comfort advice: Beware of uneven pavement in older areas, watch for cyclists and street vendors, use official taxis when leaving after dark

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