Hello! I’m Olivia Liu, an avid traveler with a deep love for exploring the rich history and culture of my homeland, China. Today, I’m excited to take you on a journey to one of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks—the Bund. Known as Waitan (外滩) in Chinese, the Bund is not just a scenic waterfront; it’s a living testament to Shanghai’s transformation from a humble fishing village to a global metropolis. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, the Bund offers something for everyone.
The Bund Facts
The Bund, often called the “Exhibition of International Architecture”, is located on the west bank of the Huangpu River, directly facing the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower across the water. Here, visitors can experience the charm of old Shanghai’s exotic historical past while enjoying views of the modern skyline of Pudong on the opposite side. The Bund perfectly combines history and modernity, making it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Shanghai.
- Location: Along the Huangpu River, Huangpu District, Shanghai
- Length: 1.5 kilometers, from Yan’an East Road to Waibaidu Bridge
- Best Time to Visit: Sunset or evening, when the city lights create a magical atmosphere
- Opening Hours: Whole day
- Light Opening: 17:00-23:00 during summer, 17:00-21:00 during winter
- Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours for a leisurely stroll, or half a day for a deeper exploration
Why Is the Bund So Special?
The Bund is more than just a picturesque promenade; it’s a window into Shanghai’s soul. Here’s why it captivates both locals and visitors alike:
- Architectural Marvels: The Bund is home to 52 historical buildings, each showcasing a unique blend of architectural styles—from neoclassical to Art Deco. These structures, often referred to as the “World Architecture Exhibition,” tell the story of Shanghai’s cosmopolitan past.
- A Tale of Two Cities: Standing on the Bund, you can gaze across the Huangpu River to Pudong, where futuristic skyscrapers like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower dominate the skyline. This contrast between old and new is a visual representation of Shanghai’s rapid development.
- Cultural Fusion: The Bund is where East meets West. From its colonial-era buildings to its modern-day vibrancy, it embodies the spirit of Shanghai—a city that embraces diversity and innovation.
- Nighttime Magic: As the sun sets, the Bund transforms into a dazzling spectacle. The illuminated buildings cast a golden glow over the river, creating a scene straight out of a postcard.
Must-See Attractions at the Bund
Here are some of the highlights you shouldn’t miss during your visit:
Huangpu Park
Located at the northern end of the Bund, Huangpu Park is Shanghai’s oldest public park. It’s home to the People’s Heroes Monument, a striking 60-meter-tall structure commemorating those who fought for China’s modernization. The park also offers stunning views of the Huangpu River and Suzhou Creek.
Waibaidu Bridge
Waibaidu Bridge, also known as the Garden Bridge of Shanghai, is an iconic all-steel bridge located at the mouth of Suzhou Creek, near Huangpu Park. Built in 1907, it spans 52.16 meters in two sections and is 18.3 meters wide, connecting Zhongshan East Road and Dongdaming Road. As the first bridge at the confluence of Suzhou Creek and the Huangpu River, it holds great historical significance and serves as a vital transportation link between northern and eastern Shanghai. Today, it stands as a symbol of Shanghai’s rich history and architectural heritage, attracting visitors from around the world.
Shiliupu Pier
The Shiliupu Pier, located on the southern bank of the Bund, is a historic yet modern landmark that bridges Shanghai’s bustling urban landscape with the serene waters of the Huangpu River. Once the busiest port in old Shanghai, it has transformed into a hub for sightseeing cruises and riverside leisure. Offering breathtaking views of the Bund’s architectural marvels and the iconic Lujiazui skyline—featuring the Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and the Shanghai Tower—it stands as a must-visit destination for tourists.
The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel
The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel is Shanghai’s first pedestrian tunnel crossing the Huangpu River, connecting the Pudong and Puxi districts. The Pudong entrance is located just west of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, while the Puxi entrance is situated north of Chen Yi Square on the Bund. As China’s first cross-river pedestrian tunnel, it was completed at the end of 2000. The tunnel spans 646.70 meters in length, with a total construction area of nearly 17,500 square meters. Featuring futuristic, ocean-themed lighting and sound effects, it offers visitors a surreal and dreamlike experience, making it a popular attraction for those exploring Shanghai’s unique charm.
Top Things to Do in the Bund Shanghai
Watch the Sunset on Waibaidu Bridge
Waibaidu Bridge is a romantic spot beloved by couples and featured in many films. At sunset, the bridge glows golden, offering a perfect backdrop for photos and creating unforgettable memories.
Take a Huangpu River cruise at night
A relaxing Huangpu River cruise is highly recommended to fully appreciate the Bund’s charm. As you glide along the river, feel the gentle breeze and admire the stunning nightscape on both banks. The city’s glittering lights reflect beautifully on the water, creating a mesmerizing scene. Marvel at the majestic Oriental Pearl Tower, the historic Bund architecture, and the towering skyscrapers of Lujiazui. Shanghai’s night view is like a breathtaking painting, leaving you in awe at every turn.
Experience the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel
Take a 3-5 minute ride through this futuristic tunnel with colorful lights. It’s a quick, unique experience connecting the Bund to Pudong.
- Shuttle between: the Bund in Puxi and the Oriental Pearl Tower in Pudong
- Duration: 3-5 minutes
- Tickets Fare: single trip: CNY 50; round trip: CNY 70
- Opening Hours: Apr. 15 – Nov. 31: 9:30 – 22:30; Dec. 1 – Apr. 14: 9:30 – 21:30
Photography Tips
The three best locations to photograph the full splendor of the Bund are: Pudong’s Binjiang Avenue for waterfront perspectives, a Huangpu River cruise for dynamic river angles, and Pudong’s iconic skyscrapers like Shanghai Tower and World Financial Center for breathtaking elevated views. Sunset is the magical golden hour when the Huangpu River transforms into a shimmering mirror, perfectly reflecting Pudong’s dazzling skyline.
To elevate your shots, consider hiring a local guide who can adapt shooting locations (including the Bund promenade or Fairmont Peace Hotel’s terrace) to current weather conditions. They’ll help you master essential techniques like preventing lens flare and optimizing ISO settings for night photography, ensuring you capture both postcard-perfect images and creative compositions with professional ease.
Best Ways to Reach the Bund
By Metro (Most Efficient)
Take Line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road Station, and then walk 10 minutes east along Nanjing Road to reach the Bund.
By Bus (Alternative Routes)
- Direct routes: City Sightseeing Bus Lines 1, 3, or 5 (stops at Waitan Haiguan Dalou)
- Regular buses: 33, 55, 65, 123, 135, 305, 317, 576, or 934 (stop at Zhongshan Dongyilu Hankoulu)
Best for those staying along bus routes or with light luggage.
From Pudong (Cross-River Options)
- Bund Sightseeing Tunnel: Fastest option (5-minute speed train)
- Ferry Service (Most Scenic): Departs from East Jinling Road Ferry Dock (7:15-18:30), and connects to Dongchang Road Dock in Pudong (7:00-18:15). The ferry ticket costs CNY 2 and a single trip takes around 10 minutes.
Perfect for sunset views of the skyline.
For first-time visitors, I recommend taking Metro Line 2/10 to East Nanjing Road Station – it’s the most straightforward route with clear English signage. For a more memorable approach, take the evening ferry from Pudong to enjoy the illuminated skyline as you arrive.
Attractions near The Bund
Here are the top nearby attractions:
Yu Garden (Yuyuan)
Yuyuan Garden is a 16th-century classical Chinese garden featuring exquisite pavilions, serene ponds, and traditional landscaping, originally built in 1577 by government officer Pan Yunduan as a private family retreat.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower is Shanghai’s iconic 468-meter-tall futuristic landmark, featuring distinctive pink spheres and offering breathtaking panoramic city views from its glass observation decks.
Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s bustling 1.2-kilometer pedestrian shopping street, blending luxury boutiques, historic department stores, and local snack stalls in a vibrant mix of old and new.
10 FAQS on The Bund
The best time to visit the Bund is during the golden hour before sunset, when you can admire the stunning transition from daylight to the illuminated skyline. Stay until evening to experience the magical light show as Pudong’s skyscrapers light up the night.
The “light show” isn’t a formal performance but rather the stunning illumination of Pudong’s skyscrapers (like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower) across the Huangpu River, visible from any vantage point along the Bund waterfront. The best viewing spots are near the Peninsula Hotel or where Nanjing Road meets the Bund, where you’ll see colorful lights dancing across the financial district’s buildings nightly from 7-10pm.
Yes, it’s generally easy to find taxis at the Bund, with designated taxi lines and readily available cabs throughout the day. However, during busy evenings, using ride-hailing apps like Didi may be more convenient despite occasional pick-up challenges. While street hailing works well, the apps can help avoid crowds at peak times.
Yes, the Bund is very safe at night with excellent security and good lighting, especially during busy evening hours. However, it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure in crowds. Avoid isolated spots late at night for complete peace of mind.
Yes, there are clean public restrooms conveniently located along The Bund, especially near Huangpu Park and major sightseeing spots. Many attractions also have their own facilities. For the best experience, morning visits are recommended when restrooms are freshly cleaned and less crowded.
No, there is no entry fee for The Bund—it’s a free public waterfront area open 24/7. However, some nearby attractions (like observation decks in Pudong’s skyscrapers) may charge admission if you choose to visit them.
Yes, guided tours are available for The Bund, ranging from free walking tours (tip-based) to private cultural or photography-focused experiences. Many include nearby attractions like Nanjing Road or Pudong’s skyscrapers, with options in multiple languages—book through hotels, travel apps, or local tour operators for the best fit.
Yes, The Bund area is home to a wide range of dining options, from upscale restaurants serving international cuisine to street food stalls offering local snacks. There are also many cafes and bars with terraces overlooking the river, providing stunning views while dining.
There are no official storage facilities at The Bund, but some small shops near the metro stations offer luggage storage services. Typical rates are around 10 RMB per backpack and 20 RMB per suitcase per day.
There are various accommodation options near The Bund, including high-end hotels in heritage buildings and budget-friendly guesthouses. Many properties feature rooms with excellent Huangpu River and Pudong skyline views. Travelers can choose between international luxury chains and local boutique hotels within walking distance.