The Bund外滩
The Bund runs about 1.5 km along the west bank of the Huangpu River and is Shanghai's most famous promenade. Fifty-two historic buildings in wildly varied styles, known as the "Exhibition of World Architecture," face the skyscraper forest of Lujiazui across the water — together they form the single most classic night view in Shanghai.
Shanghai · Visitor Guide2026-10-27
Quick Answer
Is The Bund worth visiting?
Shanghai's signature waterfront: 52 historic buildings in every style — the 'Exhibition of World Architecture' — with the best night views in the city.
Quick facts
| Ticket | Free admission |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily 0:00-24:00 |
| Recommended duration | 1-3 hours |
| Best time to visit | Dusk into night, for sunset and the illuminated skyline |
| How to get there | Metro Line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road station, then a 10-minute walk; Line 2 to Lujiazui for the view across the river |
| English signage | Yes |
| Wheelchair accessible | Yes |
| Buildings | 52 |
| Length | About 1.5 km |
| Built | 1906-1937 |
| Styles | Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque and more |
| Across the river | Lujiazui financial district |
| Nickname | Exhibition of World Architecture |
What to expect
The Bund's buildings are a product of Shanghai's concession era: 52 structures spanning Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque and Art Deco, all listed among Shanghai's outstanding historical buildings. Risen one after another in the first half of the 20th century, they once housed foreign banks and trading houses.
The riverside promenade on the flood-control wall is where visitors concentrate. To your left stretches the array of historic facades; to your right, across the water, rise the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower in Lujiazui; behind you lies the city's busiest commercial district — old and new Shanghai in a single, sweeping frame.
The Bund at night is world-class. Once darkness falls, the historic buildings blaze with light, answering the modern light shows across the river. The illumination usually runs from 18:00 to 22:00 each evening. Come at dusk and you can catch both the sunset and the lights.
How to get there
Take Metro Line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road station and walk along East Nanjing Road to the Bund; or cross the river by ferry from the Dongchang Road ferry terminal.
Best photo spots
- The viewing platform framing Lujiazui (the classic vantage)
- Waibaidu Bridge and Suzhou Creek
- The facade of the Astor House Hotel (China Securities Museum)
- The nightly light show
Tips
- Arrive at dusk and stake out a good spot for sunset
- Crowds are heavy — keep your belongings close
- Shoot the reflected facades from the south bank of Suzhou Creek
- The underpasses have restrooms that beat the portable toilets
Scams to avoid
- Watch out for fake e-bike charging carts
- Decline strangers who offer a photo and then demand payment
Frequently asked questions
The Bund or Lujiazui — how to choose?
Each has its own character. Come to the Bund at dusk first, then take the ferry across to Lujiazui for the night view.
Is the Bund good for shopping?
The Bund is mainly about the architecture; for shopping, head to East Nanjing Road.
Is there anywhere to eat around the Bund?
Upscale restaurants line the Bund; budget eats are scarce.
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