A Complete Guide to the Bund Shanghai

Let’s be honest—your visit to Shanghai can’t ever seem complete unless you‘ve perched on The Bund and shot a look at the space-age skyline dominating the Huangpu River on the west banks. The Bund is the most iconic and photogenic waterfront promenade in Shanghai, offering a view that will make your jaw drop—absolutely cinematic. Often referred to as the Museum of International Architecture, you will be left stunned with grand colonial buildings on one side telling the tales of the 1920s and a futuristic skyline of Pudong’s Lujiazui district on the other, putting on a show with blazing ambition and light.

Whether it's the stunning Art Deco buildings, the astonishing display of old-world charm blended with the new skyscrapers in Pudong across the river, or even the luxurious boutiques that attract you—this guide to The Bund Shanghai will transport you into a world of mind-blowing viewpoints, must-see tourist attractions, rich heritage, dining areas, and so much more, so you can make the most out of your trip.

Wanna snap a perfect shot? Or enjoy people-watching? Or perhaps, soaking in the atmosphere? This slice of Shanghai delivers it all, making everyone fall in love with it! Whether you’ve got an entire afternoon or just a couple of hours, make sure to experience the following things!

Take a Leisurely Stroll Along the Promenade

The walk at the 1.5-kilometer (0.93-mile) stretch of The Bund seems to turn the pages of a living architectural textbook. Walking through 52 preserved historical buildings on one side, whereas the Huangpu River shimmers with the futuristic skyline of Lujiazui facing across on the other side, this riverside promenade walk portrays everything from baroque to art deco buildings. And not only this, but you can also marvel at some of this city’s best buildings from this skyline, like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower.

Take a Huangpu River Cruise

If walking for 2 ½ hours beside The Bund doesn’t fancy you, then just hop on a ferry cruise along the Huangpu River. You’ll come across monumental colonial-era architecture on one side and spectacular modern skyscrapers like the Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl Tower on the other. You can take the local ferry to Pudong, which is inexpensive—costing about 2 yuan—or opt for a 30–50-minute cruise that comes with dining options and evening lights. It’s a magical experience, especially at night, when the city truly comes alive.

Relax at Huangpu Park

Take a walk from Huangpu Park, one of the oldest public parks in Shanghai, situated on the northern side of The Bund. This grassy, well-maintained retreat is where you’ll unwind under flowering shady trees or have fun on well-manicured lawns. Don’t miss capturing the beautiful Bund skyline view with your camera lens. Whether you’re soaking in the serene environment or recharging after a walk, this park is a peaceful retreat among the urban buzz.

Capture Memorable Pictures

A photographer? Then the Bund is your dream canvas. It offers one of the most breathtaking skyline views in the world—perfect for capturing Shanghai at its most dramatic. On one side, the cityscape rises with architectural icons like the Jin Mao Tower, the Shanghai World Financial Center, and the glowing skyline of Pudong, forming a stunning microcosm of modern China. For truly unforgettable shots, head there during golden hour or return late at night when the skyline explodes in neon—it's skyline magic at its finest.

So, what’s the best way to explore the true richness of this waterfront promenade? Simply experience it up close. Behind its grand facades, you'll discover cultural icons, fascinating interiors, and historical treasures that echo the remarkable past of Shanghai as an international trade powerhouse. Although many buildings remain in use and are not open to the public, pausing to admire their architecture or peeking into their intriguing lobbies can transform your walk into a truly enriching experience. Let us guide you through some of the best sights at The Bund Shanghai that will leave you in awe!

The Old HSBC Building – A Sign of World Heritage

Explore the grand neoclassical marvel, the Old HSBC Building, designed in 1923—one of Shanghai’s most historic landmarks. Once the headquarters of the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, it now houses the Shanghai Pudong Development Bank. The crowning glory lies beneath its dome, where multicolored mosaics depict cities that shaped global trade, including Calcutta, Hong Kong, New York, and more.

Please note: Public access to the dome is restricted, but the building’s exterior remains an architectural masterpiece and a lasting symbol of Shanghai’s financial legacy.

The Custom House – The Big Ben of Shanghai

Located next to the iconic HSBC Building, the Custom House is an eight-story landmark built in 1927. Famous for its clock tower modeled after London’s Big Ben, this impressive building still functions as a customs facility, making The Bund a hub for international commerce. Alongside the HSBC Building, it defines The Bund’s classic skyline and serves as a powerful reminder of Shanghai’s historic role in global trade.

The Bund or Shanghai Bull – The Power in Bronze

Situated near the northern end of The Bund, the Shanghai or Bund Bull is a striking bronze sculpture created by Arturo Di Modica—the artist behind New York’s Charging Bull. Standing 3 meters tall and 5 meters long, the bull symbolizes the unshakable strength and vitality of Shanghai’s economy. Since its installation in 2010, it has become a symbol of financial resilience and a must-see photo spot for visitors.

Gutzlaff Signal Tower – A Token to Nautical Shanghai

Rising 36.8 meters above The Bund, the Gutzlaff Signal Tower (also known as the Bund Weather Tower) is a fascinating landmark. Originally built in 1865, it served as a beacon for maritime communication, delivering typhoon warnings and weather updates to ships. The tower has been thoughtfully restored with modern touches and now houses an engaging museum on its ground floor, telling the evolving story of The Bund. Looking for a relaxing break? Enjoy the charming cafés on the second floor, where you can sip coffee with scenic river views.

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