How long does it take to walk the Bund?

A thorough walk including stops for photos and reading history takes about 90 to 120 minutes. The distance is roughly 1.5 kilometers from Waibaidu Bridge to the southern end of the historic buildings.

Is it worth visiting the Bund at night?

Yes, it is highly recommended to visit at night when the historic buildings and Pudong skyscrapers are illuminated. The lights typically turn on at 7:00 PM and offer some of the best photography opportunities in Asia.

Can I go inside the buildings on the Bund?

Some buildings are open to the public, such as the Fairmont Peace Hotel and the Bank of China lobby. Others are private offices or government buildings like the Custom House, where access is generally restricted to the ground floor or lobby areas.

What is the best time to avoid crowds on the Bund?

Early morning, before 8:00 AM, is the best time to avoid the massive crowds. You will see locals practicing Tai Chi and can enjoy the architecture in relative peace before the tourist groups arrive.

Is the Bund walking route accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes, the Bund promenade is very accessible. There are ramps and elevators connecting the street level to the elevated viewing platform, and the entire walkway is wide and flat.

Where does the Bund start and end?

The historic Bund traditionally starts at the Waibaidu Bridge in the north and ends near the Yan'an East Road Ferry Terminal in the south. The most famous architectural stretch is about 1.5 kilometers long.

Are there public toilets along the Bund?

Yes, there are well-maintained public restrooms located underneath the promenade at various points. Look for the signs near the stairs and elevators along the waterfront.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step back in time to the 'Wall Street of the Orient' with this self-guided walk through the heart of Shanghai. The Bund, or Waitan, is not just a waterfront promenade; it is a living museum of early 20th-century global architecture. As you follow this walking route, you will encounter a stunning array of styles, including Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, and Art Deco, all standing as a testament to Shanghai's history as a global financial powerhouse. This neighborhood stroll offers a unique perspective on how Western influence and Chinese ambition merged to create one of the most iconic skylines in the world. This experience is particularly special because it highlights the contrast between the historic Puxi side and the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong across the Huangpu River. You will begin at the northern end of the Bund, where the Suzhou Creek meets the river, and move southward past legendary landmarks. Highlights include the industrial beauty of the Waibaidu Bridge, the opulent interiors of world-class hotels, and the imposing facades of former colonial banks. Unlike a standard walking tour Shanghai might offer in a group setting, this self-guided adventure allows you to linger at the viewpoints that interest you most, whether you are capturing the perfect long-exposure photograph of the skyline or studying the intricate stone carvings on the historic Custom House. The route is flat and accessible, making it an easy-going exploration for history buffs and photography enthusiasts alike. By the time you reach the final stop, you will understand why the Bund remains the crown jewel of Shanghai’s urban identity, representing a bridge between a colonial past and a soaring future.

Highlights

Cross the historic Waibaidu Bridge, China's first all-steel bridge

Admire the iconic green copper roof of the Fairmont Peace Hotel

See the blending of Chinese and Art Deco styles at the Bank of China Building

Listen for the chimes of 'Big Ching' at the historic Custom House

Capture panoramic views of the futuristic Pudong skyline from the promenade

Explore the site of the former British Consulate grounds

Tour Stops (6)

Waibaidu Bridge

Start your journey at the Waibaidu Bridge, also known as the Garden Bridge. Opened in 1908, this is the first all-steel bridge built in China and remains a beloved symbol of old Shanghai. Its name, 'Waibaidu,' literally means 'outer free-to-cross bridge,' referring to the fact that it replaced an earlier wooden toll bridge. As you stand on its steel structure, notice how it frames the modern Oriental Pearl Tower in the distance—a favorite shot for local photographers. The bridge has survived wars and massive urban redevelopment, serving as a gateway between the historic International Settlement and the northern districts. It has appeared in countless Chinese films, often representing the romanticized, bittersweet atmosphere of 1930s Shanghai.

The Peninsula Shanghai

A short stroll south brings you to The Peninsula Shanghai. While the building itself opened in 2009, it was designed to harmonize perfectly with its historic neighbors. It sits on the grounds of the former British Consulate, which was the very first building on the Bund. Look at the granite facade and the Art Deco-inspired interiors that pay homage to the city's 'Golden Age.' This location marks the northern anchor of the Bund’s 'Architecture Museum.' The hotel’s presence here represents the revival of the Bund as a luxury destination, blending modern high-end hospitality with the deep historical roots of the original 19th-century foreign concession.

Bank of China Building, Shanghai

Continue to the Bank of China Building, a fascinating example of how architecture can express national identity. Built in the 1930s, it was originally intended to be the tallest building in the city. However, legend says that Victor Sassoon, the owner of the neighboring Cathay Hotel, used his influence to ensure the Bank of China wouldn't rise higher than his own property. As a result, the building is slightly shorter but arguably more unique. Notice the traditional Chinese elements integrated into the Art Deco design, such as the stone brackets under the eaves and the square windows that mimic traditional patterns. It stands as one of the few buildings on the Bund designed with significant Chinese architectural input during the colonial era.

Fairmont Peace Hotel

Next door is the legendary Fairmont Peace Hotel, formerly known as the Cathay Hotel. This Art Deco masterpiece was the vision of Sir Victor Sassoon, a wealthy businessman who wanted to create the most luxurious hotel in the East. Its signature green copper pyramid roof is one of the Bund's most recognizable features. In the 1930s, this was the epicenter of Shanghai high society, hosting celebrities like Charlie Chaplin and Noel Coward. Step into the lobby to see the stunning rotunda and stained glass. The hotel is also famous for its Old Jazz Band, whose members have been playing classic tunes here for decades, keeping the spirit of the 1930s alive.

The Bund

Now, step onto the elevated promenade of the Bund itself. This walkway was raised in the 1990s as a flood control levee, but it also created the city's most famous viewing platform. To your right, you have the 'Museum of Buildings,' and to your left, across the Huangpu River, you see the Lujiazui financial district with its record-breaking skyscrapers like the Shanghai Tower. The name 'Bund' comes from a Persian word meaning an embankment or dam. Originally a muddy path for boatmen, it evolved into the most prestigious street in Asia. Watch the heavy river traffic, from massive barges to colorful cruise boats, which continues to be the lifeblood of Shanghai's economy.

Custom House, Shanghai

Finally, arrive at the Custom House, easily identified by its massive clock tower. Completed in 1927, the clock was modeled after Big Ben in London and is affectionately known as 'Big Ching.' The building's design is a mix of Greek Revival and Neo-Classicism. For nearly a century, its chimes have marked the time for the city. During the Cultural Revolution, the chimes were changed to play 'The East is Red,' but they have since returned to their original Westminster quarters. As the center of maritime trade regulation, this building was once the most important administrative site on the waterfront, symbolizing the massive flow of wealth that built the city you see today.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk along the Zhongshan East 1st Road promenade is the best way to see the architecture. This 1.5-kilometer route allows you to see landmarks like the Peace Hotel and Custom House at your own pace.