See & do · Landmarks & architecture
The Bund
Images provided by Google Places
Historic, 1,500-meter-long waterside promenade showcasing distinctive modern & colonial buildings.via Google
A waterfront showcase of 52 historic buildings in various European architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Art Deco.
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- Free. Best viewed at sunrise for quiet reflection, or at night when the buildings are illuminated.
Reviews from Google
The Bund: The Ultimate Intersection of History and Future No trip to Shanghai is complete without a visit to The Bund. It is arguably one of the most iconic waterfronts in the world, offering a spectacular contrast between the city’s colonial past and its futuristic skyline. The Architecture: Walking along the west side of the Huangpu River feels like a trip through history. The "Gallery of World Architecture" features stunning Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque buildings that have been beautifully preserved. The Lujiazui Skyline: Looking across the river provides the best view of the Pudong district. Seeing the Oriental Pearl Tower, the Shanghai Tower, and the "Bottle Opener" (SWFC) all lined up is an unforgettable sight, especially when the lights come on in the evening. The Atmosphere: Whether you visit in the early morning to see locals practicing Tai Chi or at night when the neon lights are in full glow, the energy here is incredible. The wide, elevated promenade makes it easy to walk and take photos despite the crowds. Sightseeing Tunnel and Ferries: For a few yuan, you can take a local ferry across the river to Pudong, which is a great way to see the skyline from the water without paying for an expensive cruise. Timing the Lights: The buildings typically light up between 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM (depending on the season). Be sure to arrive just before sunset to watch the transition. Avoid the Midday Heat: There is very little shade on the promenade. Early morning or late evening are the most comfortable times for a stroll. Photography: For the best shots of the Pudong skyline without too many people in the frame, head toward the northern end of the Bund near the Waibaidu Bridge.
The Bund at the North Bund area is a really enjoyable experience, especially at night. We took the Shanghai Metro from People’s Square Station to International Cruise Terminal Station, which was very convenient and straightforward. The walk from the station to the waterfront is nice and relaxing, with a cool breezy night atmosphere that makes the whole experience even more comfortable. It’s not too crowded compared to the main Bund, so it feels more peaceful and easy to enjoy the view. Getting a Didi after disembarking was also very easy, which made the whole trip smooth and hassle-free. The view from the North Bund is really spectacular. You can see the river stretching wide with passing cruise ships, and the reflections of city lights on the water create a beautiful night scenery. Watching the waves and the illuminated skyline together makes it a very memorable spot to visit in Shanghai.
The new of shanghai, the bund most iconic spot in Shanghai. What a wonderful view at the night, it’s truly beautiful.. the view from other side with the colourful buildings.. the sign of modern skyscrapers.. if u have chance to visit Shanghai, don’t forget to come here and visit the bund..
Absolutely stunning! The Bund is without a doubt one of the most beautiful waterfronts in the world. Standing by the river and looking at the incredible Shanghai skyline is an experience that photos simply cannot capture. The contrast between the historic colonial buildings and the futuristic skyscrapers across the river is truly unique. Whether during the day or at night when the city lights come alive, the views are spectacular. Every visit leaves me amazed. If you’re in Shanghai, don’t miss the opportunity to spend some time here. The Bund is the heart and soul of this incredible city.
The Bund is not just a tourist attraction; it’s an essential, breathtaking chapter in the story of Shanghai and, indeed, of modern China. My visit here was nothing short of spectacular, earning a solid and enthusiastic five stars for an experience that engages the senses, educates the mind, and elevates the spirit. Walking along the Zhongshan Road promenade, you are treated to what is arguably one of the most iconic urban vistas on the planet. On one side, you have the stately, gravity-defying skyscrapers of Pudong—the glittering Shanghai Tower, the uniquely bottle-opener-shaped Shanghai World Financial Center, and the pearl of the Oriental Pearl Tower. This forest of glass and steel embodies the dizzying ambition and futuristic vision of 21st-century Shanghai. Then, with a simple turn of the head, you are transported back to the “Paris of the East.” The majestic historical buildings—banks, trading houses, and customs offices—line the west side in a stunning display of Neoclassical, Gothic, and Art Deco architecture. This powerful juxtaposition of old and new, of East and West, is visually stunning and deeply symbolic. The experience evolves beautifully with the time of day. In daylight, the details of the stonework on the historic buildings are crisp, and the Huangpu River bustles with ferries and barges. As dusk falls, the magic truly begins. The sky transforms into a watercolor palette, and then, as if on cue, the Pudong skyline erupts into a synchronized, dazzling light show. The reflections dancing on the river create a double panorama that is simply mesmerizing. The energy is contagious, filled with the happy chatter of visitors from all over the world and locals enjoying their evening stroll. While it can be crowded, that’s part of its vibrancy. For a more serene experience, I highly recommend a Huangpu River cruise to see the panorama from the water, or exploring the back streets behind the Bund to discover beautiful old buildings and cozy cafes. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, a photographer, or simply a traveler seeking awe, The Bund delivers on every single level.