Nestled along the Huangpu River, the Shanghai Bund (Waitan) stands as a living testament to China’s transformative journey from colonial past to global metropolis.
Renowned for its **”World Architecture Exposition”**, this 1.5-kilometer waterfront strip boasts 52 iconic buildings blending Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and Art Deco styles. For foreign travelers, the Bund offers not just a visual feast but a cultural odyssey through Shanghai’s soul.
A Walk Through History
The Bund’s story begins in 1843 as a British concession, evolving into Asia’s financial heart by the 1930s. Key landmarks like the Peace Hotel (No.20 The Bund) captivate with its emerald-green copper dome and preserved 1930s jazz bar, where septuagenarian musicians still perform nightly.
Nearby, the HSBC Building (No.12) dazzles with its ceiling mosaics depicting eight global cities, a symbol of Shanghai’s early cosmopolitan ambitions. Don’t miss Bund Origin No.1 (33 Zhongshan Road), the area’s oldest British consulate building, marking the northern start of this architectural treasure trove.
Two Faces of the Bund: Classic & Contemporary
The First Facade:
Facing the river, these grand structures like the Customs House and Sassoon Building reflect Shanghai’s golden age. A sunset stroll here contrasts the shimmering skyscrapers of Pudong across the river, creating an iconic skyline.
The Second Facade:
Venture west to explore revitalized lanes like Jiujiang Road and Hankou Road, where 141 heritage buildings now house chic cafes, galleries like the Shanghai Jiushi Art Museum, and boutique hotels. The Rockbund Art Museum on Huqiu Road exemplifies how historical spaces fuse with avant-garde creativity.
Cultural Gems & Hidden Delights
Art & Music:
Visit the 18 Art Space in No.18 Bund for rotating exhibitions, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame Pudong’s futuristic vista. Jazz enthusiasts can head to the Lincoln Jazz Club in Bund Central, an offshoot of New York’s legendary venue.
Local Flavors:
Savor Shanghai’s culinary heritage at Dexing Restaurant near the Bund, famed for its braised hairy crab with rice cakes. For affordable street food, try Laideyou Oil Dumplings or century-old Shengda Cake Shop for classic sponge cakes.
Night Magic & Practical Tips
As dusk falls, the Bund transforms into a luminous spectacle. Join the Huangpu River Cruise to admire the neon-lit “dancing buildings” or ascend Shanghai Tower for a 360° panorama. For metro access, take Line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road Station, a 10-minute walk to the Bund.
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