The Bund (Wàitān) is the historic hallmark of Shanghai, a place where you can see the old colonial charm and the futuristic glitter of a modern metropolis. Stretching approximately 1.5 km along the western bank of the Huangpu River—from the mouth of Suzhou Creek in the north to Huangpu Park in the south—the Bund is one of the most picturesque and vibrant spots in the city.
The Evening Magic of the Bund: View of Pudong
As dusk falls, the waterfront transforms into Shanghai’s main observation deck. Thousands of tourists and locals gather here to admire the stunning panorama of Pudong district on the opposite shore. Its glittering skyscrapers form one of the world’s most recognizable skylines:
• Shanghai Tower (632 m) – The world’s third-tallest building, a spiral-shaped giant with an observation deck on the 118th floor.
• Shanghai World Financial Center (492 m) – Its arched top resembles a bottle opener.
• Jin Mao Tower (420 m) – A pagoda-inspired skyscraper with 88 floors.
• Oriental Pearl Tower (468 m) – A futuristic tower with pink spheres.
The nighttime illumination, reflected in the waters of the Huangpu, is especially breathtaking.
The Bund’s Architecture: A "Museum of Buildings" from the Colonial Era
Unlike futuristic Pudong, the Bund itself is lined with majestic European-style buildings, locally referred to as an "eclectic architectural museum." Most were constructed between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when Shanghai was a hub of international concessions.
Most Famous Buildings on the Bund:
• Shanghai Customs House (1927) – Features a giant clock and dome, reminiscent of London’s Big Ben.
• HSBC Building (1923) – A monumental neoclassical structure with lavish mosaics and columns.
• Peace Hotel (1929) – Formerly the Cathay Hotel in Art Deco style, a symbol of the golden 1920s.
• Hongkong and Shanghai Bank (1923) – Blends Greek columns with British imperial grandeur.
• Shanghai Exchange (1907) – Now a hotel, its façade is adorned with sculptures.
These buildings, once banks and offices of foreign companies, have now been transformed into boutique hotels, restaurants, and museums.
Exploring the Bund: What to Do?
• Walk the entire promenade, from the Monument to the People’s Heroes to the "Gateway to Shanghai" sign in Huangpu Park.
• Take a night cruise along the Huangpu to see Pudong’s lights from the water.
• Visit a rooftop bar (like Bar Rouge) for a cocktail with a skyscraper view.
• Explore the Bund History Museum in the former Bank of China building.
The Bund is where Shanghai’s colonial past meets its futuristic present. By day, it’s a place of business, but by night, it turns into a festive spectacle as Pudong’s lights ignite over the river and dozens of sightseeing boats glide along the water. A must-see for every visitor to Shanghai.
