The Bund外滩
Shanghai’s riverside parade of banks, trading houses and hotels from the treaty-port era, facing the towers of Pudong.
Photo: xiquinhosilva · CC BY 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
- Time needed
- 1–2 hours (twice: day and night)
- Best time
- Early morning for tai chi and quiet; after dark when the buildings are lit.
- Nearest base
- Shanghai
About The Bund
The Bund (Waitan) is a 1.5 km stretch of the Huangpu River’s west bank lined with buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries — banks, customs house, trading companies and grand hotels in neoclassical, Beaux-Arts and art deco styles.
Across the river stand the Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center and Shanghai Tower. The promenade is free and open around the clock.
Tickets and getting there
- Booking
- No ticket needed.
- How to get there
- Metro Line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road and walk east.
Almost every major sight in China books by passport number. See what to set up before you fly.
Highlights
- Peace Hotel — Art deco landmark; the jazz bar has a long history.
- Customs House — Clock tower that still chimes.
- Former HSBC Building — Look up at the restored mosaic ceiling in the lobby when open.
- Huangpu ferry — Cheap public ferry to Pudong for river views.
Field notes
- Light-up times vary by season; avoid national holidays, when crowd controls apply.
Staying in Shanghai
Shanghai travel guide
China’s most international city: the Bund, art deco neighbourhoods, world-class museums and an hour by train to classical Suzhou and Hangzhou.
Classic China by High-Speed Rail: 12 Days
China with Kids: 10 Days of Walls, Warriors and Pandas
10 Days Visa-Free: Shanghai to Hong Kong on 240-Hour Transit
Shanghai, Huangshan & Hangzhou: 8 Days of Gardens, Peaks and Tea
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FAQ
What time do the Bund lights turn on?
Usually around dusk until late evening, with times varying by season. On some holidays the lights stay on longer.
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