The Bund

The Bund is Shanghai's iconic waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River, lined on one side by grand 1920s European-style banks and trading houses and facing the futuristic Pudong skyline on the other. Walking it at dusk, when both sides light up, is the definitive Shanghai experience. It's free and always open, but it draws huge crowds in the evening and on weekends.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Is the Bund free to visit?

Completely free - it is an open public promenade you can walk any time, day or night. You only spend money if you go into the historic buildings' bars and restaurants or take a river cruise.

How long should I spend at the Bund?

One to two hours to walk the promenade end to end, take photos, and soak in the views. Add more if you stop for a rooftop drink or a river cruise.

Is the Bund safe at night?

Yes, Shanghai is very safe and the Bund is busy and well-lit into the evening. The main nuisance is crowds and the occasional pushy tout offering boat tickets or photos - a polite no works fine.

Day or night - which is better?

Both, and ideally in one visit. By day you appreciate the colonial-era banks and clubs along the Bund; by night the neon skyline across the river steals the show. Locals will tell you to see it lit up at least once.

Is the Huangpu River cruise worth it?

For the night skyline from the water, yes - stick to the short basic cruise rather than the pricey dinner boats. The lights reflecting off the river are genuinely stunning.

What is the best time to visit the Bund?

Arrive around 4-5pm to see the old architecture in daylight, then stay for the Pudong lights that switch on about 6pm. Early morning is best if you want the riverside nearly empty for photos - crowds surge after 11am.

Where are the best photo spots?

The elevated promenade railing facing Pudong is the classic shot. For the old buildings, cross to the western side of Zhongshan Road. The Bund Sightseeing viewpoint at the north end near Waibaidu Bridge is another favorite.

How do I get to the Bund?

Metro Line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road Station, then about a 10-minute walk east to the water. You can also stroll down pedestrianized Nanjing Road straight to the riverfront.

Nearby in Ask Shanghai

• Ultraviolet by Paul PairetRestaurant0.09 km · 1 min walk
• Hakkasan ShanghaiRestaurant0.18 km · 2 min walk
• Rockbund Art MuseumMuseum0.26 km · 3 min walk
• Long Bar at the Waldorf AstoriaBar0.48 km · 6 min walk
• Shanghai History MuseumMuseum0.53 km · 7 min walk