The Bund: Witnessing a Century of Shanghai’s Turbulent Changes

Introduction

The Bund is located in the center of Shanghai, consisting of a section of road along the Huangpu River and the buildings lining it. This road stretches about 1,100 meters and is lined with over 20 historical buildings in different architectural styles, earning it the nickname “The Gallery of World Architecture.” Since Shanghai opened as a port in 1843, the Bund gradually became the financial and trading center of both Shanghai and China, often referred to as the “Wall Street of the East.” At one point, nearly half of China’s wealth was concentrated here.

Best Time to Visit

In the summer and autumn, the climate is pleasant, with each season offering its own unique beauty. The nighttime view, however, is especially captivating.

Tour Routes

We can enjoy and explore from north to south at our leisure.

Waibaidu Bridge

The Waibaidu Bridge is located near the confluence of Suzhou Creek and the Huangpu River. Built in 1907, it is the first full-steel structure riveted bridge in China.

The Bund Source

“The Bund Source” refers to the origin and starting point of Shanghai’s Bund, located at the northernmost end of the Bund, south of the Waibaidu Bridge. It was once the site of the British Consulate in Shanghai.

The Bund History Museum

The Bund History Museum, completed in 1995, showcases the 150-year transformation of the Bund mainly through historical photographs. The museum is divided into two sections: the history of the old Bund before liberation and the development of the new Bund after liberation.

Huangpu Park

Originally known as the Bund Park, Huangpu Park was established in 1868 and is the oldest park in Shanghai. Because it was in the concession area, it was not open to Chinese people until 1928.

Shanghai Peace Hotel

The Shanghai Peace Hotel, originally named Sassoon House, was built in 1929 and is known as the “First Building of the Far East.” Initially called Huamao Hotel, it was later renamed Peace Hotel. As the first world-renowned top hotel in China, it is famous for its luxury and has hosted many prominent figures from the finance, trade, and social circles, including George Marshall, Charlie Chaplin, and George Bernard Shaw.

Chen Yi Square

Chen Yi Square is located to the east of the Peace Hotel and was built in honor of Chen Yi, the first mayor of Shanghai in New China. After exploring Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, visitors often come to Chen Yi Square to enjoy the Bund’s view and gaze at the Lujiazui area across the Huangpu River. On New Year’s Eve in 2014, a serious stampede occurred at Chen Yi Square, resulting in 36 deaths and 49 injuries.

Jiang Hai Customs Building(江海关大楼)

Built between 1925 and 1927, the Jiang Hai Customs Building is one of Shanghai’s most famous landmark buildings and is currently used by the Shanghai Customs.

HSBC Building

The HSBC Building (formerly known as the Municipal Building) is located at No. 12 The Bund in Shanghai. It is a famous building and also the largest, widest, and most magnificent building on the Bund.

Asia Building(亚细亚大楼)

The Asia Building was the office of the British Asia Petroleum Company in Shanghai during the Republic era. It was once called the “Tallest Building on the Bund.”

The Bund Lover’s Wall

The Bund Lover’s Wall stretches along the Huangpu River from Huangpu Park to Xinkai River, covering about 1,700 meters. As the name suggests, it was once a romantic spot for young couples in Shanghai to meet.

Photos & Videos

The Bund Light Show in Shanghai

Basic Information

The Bund is a public area, and visitors can explore it for free.

Transportation Options

Take Metro Line 2 or Line 10 and get off at Nanjing East Road Station. Walk east along Nanjing East Road for about 500 meters to reach the Shanghai Peace Hotel. Continue east, cross the road, and you’ll arrive at the Bund.

Important Notes

In winter, Shanghai’s temperatures are lower, and the evenings can be quite cold with strong winds along the Bund. Be sure to dress warmly.

The view at night is even more stunning, so it’s recommended to visit the Bund in the evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time do the landscape lights turn on?
They usually turn on around 6 or 7 PM.