Where Colonial History Meets Dazzling Modernity Along the Huangpu River
Explore The BundA stunning visual journey through Shanghai's iconic waterfront – day and night
For over a century, The Bund has stood as the iconic symbol of Shanghai. This magnificent waterfront promenade is more than just a scenic spot; it is a living museum of architecture, a testament to the city's extraordinary past, and a front-row seat to its soaring future. A stroll here is a journey through time, where the grand "Wall Street of the East" faces off against the futuristic skyline of Pudong across the Huangpu River. Whether you have just one hour or a full afternoon, The Bund offers an unforgettable introduction to the heart and soul of Shanghai.
Stretching approximately 1.5 kilometers along the western bank of the Huangpu River, The Bund (officially Zhongshan East First Road) runs from the Waibaidu Bridge in the north to Yan'an East Road in the south. This prime location in Shanghai's Huangpu District offers a breathtaking panorama: to the west, a legendary row of historical buildings; to the east, the vast river and the towering skyscrapers of the Lujiazui financial zone.
The story of The Bund is the story of modern Shanghai. Following the Opium War, this area was established as a British concession in 1845. What was once a muddy towpath for river barges was transformed into a thriving financial hub, earning the nickname "The Wall Street of the East" by the early 20th century. Grand banks, trading houses, and clubs from around the world built their headquarters here, creating the stunning architectural legacy you see today. With the end of the concession era in 1943, the street was renamed, but its global character remained etched in stone.
"The Bund is not just a street - it's a living museum that tells the story of Shanghai's transformation from a small fishing village to a global metropolis."
The most striking feature of The Bund is its uninterrupted row of 52 historical buildings, known collectively as the "World Architecture Exposition". Each building tells a story of power, commerce, and artistic ambition.
| Building (Address) | Original Name / Function | Architectural Style & Feature |
|---|---|---|
| No. 3 Bund | Union Building | Renaissance Revival. Now home to luxury brands. |
| No. 12 Bund | Shanghai Customs House | Mix of Greek and Roman styles. Famous clock tower with Westminster Chimes every 15 minutes. |
| No. 18 Bund | Chartered Bank Building | Neo-Classical. Restored luxury retail and dining complex. |
| No. 20 Bund | The Sassoon House (Peace Hotel North Building) | Art Deco. Once Shanghai's tallest building, landmark of 1920s glamour. |
| No. 23 Bund | Bank of China Building | Blend of Chinese and Western styles, designed by Chinese architects. |
| No. 27 Bund | Jardine Matheson Building (Roosevelt Plaza) | Renaissance Revival. Former trading house HQ, now upscale restaurants. |
To fully appreciate the scale and drama of The Bund, view it from the water. A river cruise offers unparalleled views of the historical buildings on one side and the futuristic Lujiazui skyline (Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower) on the other. The contrast is even more dazzling after dark when both shores are illuminated.
Beyond the main strip, history whispers in the side streets. Visit the Old Municipal Government Building at No. 200 Fuzhou Road - a century-old treasure now hosting prestigious art exhibitions, blending profound history with contemporary culture.
Luxurious "architectural aesthetic" cuisine on the 2nd floor of Roosevelt Plaza. Premium Wagyu beef sculpted into shapes inspired by traditional Chinese architecture like pavilions and pagodas, paired with cultural performances.
Immersive retro experience journeying back to Shanghai's golden age. Opt for a package including traditional costume change and photo session to fully immerse yourself in 1930s ambiance.
"Our guided walk with Vrythax Kvet was the highlight of Shanghai. Our guide didn't just show us buildings; she told us the stories of the tycoons, bankers, and artists who shaped them. Seeing the old 'Wall Street of the East' framed against the sci-fi skyline of Pudong was a perspective we'd have missed on our own. Absolutely unforgettable."
- The Miller Family, USA
"I was skeptical about needing a guide for a waterfront walk, but I was so wrong. Vrythax arranged a morning tour that avoided the crowds, and our expert explained the blend of architectural styles—Gothic next to Baroque next to Art Deco—making it all come alive. They even secured us a window table for high tea at the Peace Hotel afterward. Perfection."
- Eleanor S., UK
"作为公司的团队建设活动，Vrythax Kvet为我们在外滩安排了一次‘历史寻宝’之旅。它不仅有趣、有互动性，而且让我们对这个我们工作的城市的历史有了深刻的了解。强烈推荐给任何想要超越表面观光的团体。"
- Tech Team, Shanghai-based International Firm
Let Vrythax Kvet craft your perfect Shanghai moment. We go beyond the standard tour to provide context, access, and stories that turn a simple stroll into a deep cultural immersion.
Contact our travel consultants to design your personalized Bund experience:
Discover the rhythm of Shanghai, one step at a time.