The Bund of Shanghai

Video about "The Bund" watch more videos »
The Bund of Shanghai

For a century the Bund has been one of the most recognizable architectural symbols and pride of Shanghai. Every morning people come here to do exercises and every evening they come to appreciate the view with their loved ones.

History

The word ‘bund’ derives from an Anglo-Indian word for an embankment along a muddy waterfront and that is what the Bund was originally.

When the first British company opened an office at the Bund in 1846, it became the epitome of elegance. Now many attractive new constructions have been erected in addition to the historical buildings.

Things to See

The BundThe Bund

The commemorative square at the junction of Nanjing Road has a fountain and a statue of Chen Yi, who in 1949 became the first mayor of Shanghai in the communist era.

The wharf for pleasure boat rides is also at the end of Nanjing Road. A boat ride on the Huangpu River will take visitors down to the estuary of the Yangtze River and back in just over three hours.

A spacious walkway for sightseeing runs atop a 771-metre long retaining wall on the Bund, paved with colorful tiles and dotted with flower beds and lighting. It is a good place for a leisurely stroll and a view of the Huangpu River.

Opposite the Customs Building is a waterfall electronic clock that shows time in various world cities, surrounded by Chinese wisterias, gingko trees, and azaleas. Buildings in Greek, Renaissance, and Baroque styles can also be seen along the west side of the Bund.

Skyscrapers such as the Oriental Pearl Tower hug the river, neon lights indicating the offices of top world brands.

Shanghai Bund Facts
  • Chinese: Shànghǎi Wàitān 上海外滩
  • Location: Extends from Jinling Road in the south to the Waibaidu Bridge over the Suzhou Creek in the north, on the western bank of the Huangpu River, a tributary of the Yangtze River
  • How to get to there: Bus 20, 22, 37, 42, 55, 65, 126, 212, or 401.
  • Main attractions:  There are three main attractions on Shanghai Bund: 1. Group of sculptures: Light of Huangpu River, Sail, and Wind; 2. Chenyi Square with a stone statue of Chenyi, who was the first mayor of Shanghai; and 3. The Sightseeing Tunnel which is the first underwater tunnel for foot passengers in China.

Recommended Shanghai Tours More Shanghai Tours

Hi, I'm Lynn Ye
I updated this article on March 19, 2013
See My travel blog
follow this pageChina Highlights
Planning a trip? Ask us here 800-2682918 (USA & CA)
86-773-2831999 (Int'l)
Do you want to book a tour/hotel/Wi-Fi. etc.
Your Name Your Email
Q: cristina domingo Asked on 2012-10-26 Reply
My group of 6 will arrive in Shanghai on November 14 and will leave on the 17. We are attending a conference on November 15-16. We would like to squeeze in our schedule a visit to must-see places in Shanghai at least the top five (5) tourists spots perhaps.
Dear Sir or Madam, Here are some options for reference, for example, the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, Shanghai World Financial Center. You could realize their information on our website directly. Please click: http://www.chinahighlights.com/shanghai/attraction/ Lussie Lu Replied on 2012-10-27
Q: Proinceasis O,Cuinn Asked on 2012-09-24 Reply
I arrive in Shangai on October 12th for 3 days...where are the best department stores to purchas photography equipment..I am afraid of fakes and also wish to purchas a gent,s watch...not too expensive..middle rnage

Hello Proinceasis, i think you can check your luck to Nanjing Road. Nanjing Road is the most famous and busiest shopping street in Shanghai. From time-honored traditional Chinese brand stores to international designer boutiques, Nanjing Road is a shopping paradise where you can find everything. There are also many hotels, restaurants, theaters and shopping malls. It's a fascinating glimpse of modern, commercial China.

Simon Huang Replied on 2012-09-25
Q: Pat Devine Asked on 2012-09-24 Reply
My wife and I are travelling to Shangai for a 4 day stop over on our way to Australia...we are 70 years old ...can you suggest a few 1 day or half day tours for us..not really interesyed in Museums but are open to suggestions.We arrive in Shangai on October 12th.
Dear Pat, Based on what I understand of your requirements, I’ve designed a 4-day Shanghai tour for you starting from Oct.12, 2012 to Oct.15, 2012 with a private English-speaking tour guide and van. Please check your mail box and feel free contact me if you have any question. Nancy Nancy Deng Replied on 2012-09-25
Q: SUE Asked on 2012-02-11 Reply
DOES ANYONE KNOW THE NAME OF THE BUILDING NEAR THE ORIENTAL PEARL TOWER, NOT VERY HIGH, GLASS SIDES WITH A TOWER ON TOP
Dear Sue, As your information is not enough, i am not sure which building you mean. If you can provide more details, i am glad to search it for you. Thank you. Lussie Lu Replied on 2012-02-15
Q: anne chan Asked on 2012-01-11 Reply
is there any entrance fee to these and how much does it costs?
Hi. The Bund is a waterfront embankment of Huangpu River, is does not charge any entrance fee and you can visit it any time. In the evening the view is more beautiful with the lighting on. Mia Yang Replied on 2012-01-12