The Bund is a popular waterfront area in Shanghai, China, and is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the city. It is located along the Huangpu River, facing the city’s modern skyline, and is known for its distinctive colonial-era architecture.
History of the Bund
The Bund was first developed in the 1860s, when a number of foreign trading companies, banks and consulates established offices along the Huangpu River. During this period, the area was known as the International Settlement, and the buildings constructed during this time reflected the eclectic styles of the many foreign architects who worked on them. In the 1920s and 1930s, the Bund was the center of Shanghai’s nightlife, with many restaurants, bars, and nightclubs located along its length. After the Communist Revolution in 1949, the Bund fell into disrepair, but was eventually restored in the 1980s, and has since become one of Shanghai’s most popular tourist destinations.
What to See at the Bund
The Bund is lined with dozens of historic buildings, including the Shanghai Customs House, the Bank of China Building, the Shanghai Club, the Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank, and the Peace Hotel. Many of these buildings are open to the public, and offer a glimpse into Shanghai’s colonial past. In addition to the historic buildings, the Bund also offers a number of shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as a lively nightlife scene. There are also a number of museums and galleries located along the Bund, including the Shanghai Museum, the Shanghai Art Museum, and the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall.
Things to Do at the Bund
Visitors to the Bund can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, admiring the architecture and taking in the sights and sounds of the Huangpu River. There are also a number of boat tours available, which offer visitors a chance to see the city from the water. In addition, visitors can take in a show at the Peace Hotel, visit the Shanghai Museum, or take a stroll through the nearby Yu Garden.
Getting to the Bund
The Bund is easily accessible by public transportation, with the nearest subway station being East Nanjing Road Station on Line 2. There are also a number of buses and taxis that serve the area. Additionally, visitors can take a ferry from the Bund to other parts of Shanghai, including the Shanghai World Financial Center and Pudong.
Conclusion
The Bund is one of Shanghai’s most popular tourist attractions, and offers visitors a chance to experience the city’s colonial past and vibrant modern culture. With its stunning architecture, lively nightlife, and numerous shops and restaurants, the Bund is a must-see for any visitor to Shanghai.