Table of Contents
The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Shanghai’s Bund: Must-Sees, Tips, and Hidden Gems
Hey, fellow globetrotters! 🌍If you’re planning a trip to China, Shanghai’s iconic Bund (Waitan) is a “must” to visit. This historic waterfront district is where old and new meet, East meets West, and where you can snap some of the most Instagram-worthy photos of your trip. In this guide, I’ll reveal all the secrets: top attractions, local food gems, popular photo spots, and pro tips to make your Bund adventure unforgettable. Let’s get started!Why go to the Bund?
The Bund is Shanghai’s postcard-perfect skyline. On one side are grand 19th-century European buildings; on the other are Pudong’s futuristic skyscrapers (hello, Oriental Pearl Tower!). Day or night, the Bund is a visual feast, whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or just want to stroll and take in the stunning views.
Six must-see attractions on the Bund
( Pro tip: wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be doing a lot of walking! )1. What’s so fun about strolling along the Bund’s historical buildings?
These 52 buildings are like a free, open-air museum! Each building tells a story about Shanghai’s colonial past. Don’t miss: 1: Asia Building (now a trendy shopping mall – perfect for an air-conditioned break!).
2. Why do we do this on the Huangpu River cruise?
See the Bund from the water! The daytime cruise is cool, but the **night cruise** is magical – the skyscrapers of Pudong light up like a sci-fi movie. Cost: About 150-300 yen (discounts for online bookings!) Pro tip: Go early to get a seat on the top floor – it gets crowded!
3. Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street
What’s here? A 10-minute walk from the Bund, China’s busiest shopping street. Imagine flashing neon lights, street food and people watching. Must-try snacks : “Chuan’er” (spicy meat skewers) or “Shengjianbao” (fried dumplings in soup).
4. Waibaidu Bridge
Why visit? This iconic green steel bridge is a great photo spot! Snap photos of the bridge with the Pudong skyline in the background. Fun fact: it was one of the first all-steel bridges in China – built in 1907!
5. What is inside the Peace Hotel?
Even if you don’t stay here, you can step into this Art Deco gem. There’s live music in the lobby jazz bar – you can relive the life of a 1920s movie star!
6. The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel
Very weird but fun! This psychedelic tunnel is located under the Bund and has a light show and psychedelic effects. A bit cheesy, but the kids loved it. Cost: RMB 50 one way.
Dining near the Bund
Avoid the overpriced tourist traps – locals go to these places: Xiao Yang’s Fried Rice Dumplings: Crispy and juicy dumplings, 4 for 15 RMB! Hua Ma Paradise: Enjoy Yunnan cuisine in a lantern-lit atmosphere. Try the pineapple rice! Captain’s Bar: Enjoy a drink at the rooftop bar with a view of the Bund.
6 Tips for Visiting the Bund
1. Avoid the crowds: Go early (6-8 am) for some quiet photos. Weekend nights = packed! 2. Public transportation: Take subway line 2/10 to Nanjing East Road station. Avoid taxis during peak hours (4-7 pm). 3. Safety: Beware of pickpockets in crowded places. 4. Weather: Summer is hot (bring a fan!); spring and fall are ideal seasons. 5. No cash? Use Alipay/WeChat Pay, but carry 100-200 RMB in cash for street vendors. 6. Free toilets: There are toilets near the visitor center (look for signs).Best photo spots📸
1. The Bund Riverfront Promenade: Classic skyline photos.
