Located on the western section of the Huangpu River, the Bund is a monumental attraction in Shanghai. Not only does it bear testament to the city’s colonial past, but it also serves as Shanghai’s tourist hub.
History
When Shanghai was a quaint seaside village, the Bund was used as a muddy towing path for boats along the Huangpu River. Following the First Opium War in 1842, Shanghai transformed into a port, while the Bund became the site of Great Britain’s first settlement. Thereafter, many European and Asian powers established trading houses and banks along the Bund.
Location
Beginning at Waibaidu Bridge, the Bund stretches 1.5km south towards Yan’an Road. The Bund faces the river’s modernised east bank or Shanghai’s financial zone. Whether you are based at one of the many Minhang District Shanghai apartments the likes of Citadines Hongqiao Center Shanghai, the Bund is easily accessible.
Highlights
There are approximately 52 buildings along the Bund exhibiting various architectural styles, including French and gothic. Dubbed the ‘exhibition of international buildings’, the Bund features famous establishments such as the Peace Hotel, Customs Building, and the Bank of China. Other landmarks worth exploring include the Union Church, former British Consulate, and the China Baptist Publication Building.
Things to know
Begin your 1-2 hour walk at the north or south end of the Bund. While day walks promise much excitement, night walks along the Bund illuminate the area spectacularly.
