The Bund (外滩)

Overview of the Bund

The Shanghai Bund (外滩) is located along the Huangpu River on Zhongshan East 1st Road in Huangpu District, stretching from Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥) in the north to East Yan’an Road (延安东路) in the south, with a total length of about 1.5 km. It is one of Shanghai’s most iconic urban landmarks. The area first took shape in the 1840s, as one of the birthplaces of Shanghai’s foreign concessions. Thanks to its prime riverside location, it was once among the most important international trading ports in the Far East.

The Bund is best known for its historic architectural strip, praised as a “World Architecture Exposition”: along the waterfront stand buildings in Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, and Neoclassical styles, such as the Peace Hotel (和平饭店), the Shanghai Customs House (上海海关大楼), and the former HSBC Building (汇丰银行旧址). Together they offer a complete record of Shanghai’s transformation from a small fishing village into a global metropolis. Strolling here, you can feel both the former glory of a modern financial and trading hub and the nostalgic charm of old Shanghai.

Across the river, the Bund faces the skyscraper cluster of Lujiazui (陆家嘴) — Oriental Pearl Tower (东方明珠), Shanghai Tower (上海中心大厦), Shanghai World Financial Center (环球金融中心), and Jin Mao Tower (金茂大厦) — forming a striking visual contrast between the “Old Shanghai World Architecture Cluster” and the “New Shanghai Skyscraper Skyline.” Daytime offers wide, open views ideal for appreciating architectural details; after nightfall, the dazzling light shows on both banks of the Huangpu River make this one of the favorite shooting locations for photographers and couples.

The Bund is not only a collection of buildings and scenery, but also a microcosm of Shanghai’s urban culture: it has witnessed the eras of treaty-port opening, foreign concessions, and the Shanghai Municipal Council, as well as the city’s transformation and rise after the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Today, the Bund (外滩) is a must-visit destination that combines sightseeing, leisurely walks, photography, historical and cultural experiences, and city night views. For first-time visitors to Shanghai, the Bund is almost always at the top of the itinerary.

Best Seasons and Times to Visit

Best Seasons

• Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures and relatively comfortable humidity. Fresh greenery and blooming flowers along the river make it perfect for leisurely daytime walks and capturing architectural details.
• Autumn (September–November): Cool weather and good visibility make this the prime season for enjoying the skyline and night views on both sides of the Huangpu River. Ideal for staying from dusk into the night.

Other Seasons

• Summer (June–August): Strong sunlight and muggy heat during the day, but the evening river breeze is cool, making it great for night visits to the Bund (外滩), including photographing the light shows. Be sure to use sun protection and stay hydrated during the day.
• Winter (December–February): Low temperatures and strong winds by the river, but relatively fewer tourists. Suitable for travelers who want a quieter Bund (外滩) experience and “empty-scene” photos. Remember to dress warmly.

Lighting Times & Photography Tips

• Night lighting times for the Bund (外滩) and Lujiazui (陆家嘴) skyscrapers:
  • Summer: lights on around 19:00
  • Winter: lights on around 18:00
• It’s recommended to arrive 30–60 minutes before the lights come on: first shoot the sunset and blue hour, then the fully illuminated night view for richer layers of light.
• To avoid crowds, you can choose:
  • Weekday evenings or nights
  • Overcast or drizzly days (great reflections and more atmospheric night photos)

Transportation

Metro

The metro around 外滩 (The Bund) is extremely convenient and should be your first choice:

• Metro Line 2 / 10: East Nanjing Road Station (南京东路站)

  • After exiting the station, walk east along 南京路 (Nanjing Road) for about 10–15 minutes to reach the central section of 外滩 (The Bund), near the Bund Viewing Platform and the Fairmont Peace Hotel.
  • Ideal for visitors who also plan to stroll along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街).

• Metro Line 12: International Cruise Terminal Station, Exit 3

  • From Exit 3, walk about 10 minutes to reach areas such as the North Bund Riverside Promenade (北外滩滨江步道), North Bund Little Arena (北外滩小巨蛋), and North Bund Yacht Marina (北外滩游艇驿站).
  • With wide-open views and relatively fewer people, this is a great choice for photographing the Lujiazui skyline and Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥).

• Other convenient options (easy transfers):

  • Metro Line 1/2/8: People’s Square Station (人民广场站) → Walk or take one stop by metro to East Nanjing Road, then walk to 外滩 (The Bund).

Bus

Many bus routes go directly to or pass by the Bund area:

• Common routes include Bus 20, 37, 42, 55, 65, etc. Get off at stops such as “Zhongshan East 1st Road (中山东一路)”, “The Bund (外滩)”, or “East Nanjing Road–The Bund (南京东路外滩)”, then walk a few minutes to the riverside.
• Roads are often congested during peak hours, so allow extra time.

Ferry

If you want to save money and enjoy the scenery of the Huangpu River at the same time, you can:

• Take the Huangpu River Ferry (黄浦江轮渡) from the Pudong side to the Puxi Bund side. The fare is about ¥2 per person (~$0.30 USD). The ride is short but offers excellent views, allowing you to admire the buildings and bridges on both banks up close.
• This is suitable for visitors traveling between Lujiazui or the Pudong riverside area and 外滩 (The Bund).

Driving & Ride-Hailing

• There are parking facilities such as the Bund Underground Parking Lot (外滩地下停车场) along and around 外滩 (The Bund), but:
  • Parking spaces are tight and roads are easily congested on weekends, public holidays, and during evening peak hours.
  • Some sections along the Huangpu River have traffic restrictions or one-way systems, so check navigation and traffic control information in advance.
• If you take a taxi or ride-hailing car, you can set your destination as:
  • “Bund Viewing Platform (外滩观景平台)”
  • “Zhongshan East 1st Road × East Nanjing Road (中山东一路×南京东路)”
  • Or the name of a specific hotel/building (such as the Fairmont Peace Hotel 和平饭店), then walk from the drop-off point.

Walking & Cycling

• It takes about 10 minutes to walk from the eastern end of Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街东端) to 外滩 (The Bund). The route is lined with shops, making it pleasant to browse as you walk.
• You can use shared bikes in the surrounding area (e.g., near metro stations or around People’s Square 人民广场), and ride along the Huangpu riverside promenade to link multiple attractions such as 外滩 (The Bund), North Bund (北外滩), and the mouth of Suzhou Creek (苏州河口). However, please note:
  • Cycling is prohibited on some sections of the riverside promenade; you may only walk your bike or park it in designated areas.
  • Obey traffic rules and avoid cycling in crowded pedestrian areas.

Tickets & Opening Hours

Tickets

• Public areas of the Bund (外滩 The Bund): free and open to all, no ticket required.
• Some historic buildings or hotels along the Bund (外滩 The Bund) may charge separate admission for indoor visits, exhibitions, or viewing programs, such as:
  • Exhibitions, museums, and art spaces inside certain historic buildings
  • Rooftop viewing terraces at hotel top floors or bars
• It’s recommended to check each building or venue’s official website, WeChat official account, or mini-program in advance for detailed opening information and ticket prices.

Opening Hours

• The riverside promenade and viewing areas of the Bund (外滩 The Bund) are in principle open 24 hours a day, but:
  • Some sections are not well lit at night; it’s best to stay in the main viewing areas.
  • During strong winds, heavy rain, typhoons, or other extreme weather, there may be temporary closures or safety controls.

Night Lighting Hours

• Night lighting for the skyscrapers in Lujiazui (陆家嘴) and the buildings along the Bund (外滩 The Bund):
  • Summer: lights usually come on around 19:00
  • Winter: lights usually come on around 18:00
  • They generally stay on until around 22:00–23:00 (subject to the specific day and holiday arrangements).
• If your main goal is night photography, check the lighting schedule for that day in advance and arrive at least 30 minutes early.

Guided Tours & Commentary

• To gain deeper insight into the Bund’s (外滩 The Bund) history and architectural stories, you can:
  • Join a Bund historical and cultural walking tour, which usually requires online reservation in advance; prices vary by group size and tour duration.
  • Some organizations offer bilingual Chinese–English commentary, suitable for international visitors or anyone wanting a structured understanding of the former concession history.

Reservations & Tips

• The Bund (外滩 The Bund) itself does not require reservations, but:
  • If you plan to dine or take photos at places like Fairmont Peace Hotel (和平饭店), Rockbund (外滩源), or rooftop restaurants/bars along the Bund (外滩 The Bund), it’s best to book a table in advance, especially on weekends and public holidays.
  • For guided tours or special exhibitions, be sure to reserve through official websites or reputable platforms ahead of time to avoid finding no spots available on-site.

Suggested Length of Stay

• Basic visit: 2–3 hours
  Suitable for first-time visitors to Shanghai with an itinerary focused on the Bund (外滩 The Bund). You can:

  • Stroll along the main riverside promenade from Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥) to the area near East Yan’an Road (延安东路)
  • Admire the “International Architecture Exhibition” up close
  • Photograph the Lujiazui (陆家嘴) skyline across the river and the scenery of the Huangpu River (黄浦江)

• The Bund (外滩) + Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街) + simple photo stops: half day (about 4–5 hours)
  Start from Metro Line 2, East Nanjing Road Station (南京东路站), walk along the pedestrian street, then continue on foot to the Bund (外滩). This combo works well for an afternoon-to-evening schedule.

• The Bund (外滩) + Yuyuan Garden (豫园) / City God Temple (城隍庙) + Nanjing Road (南京路) full-day tour: 1 day
  Spend the morning at Yuyuan Garden (豫园) and the old streets around City God Temple (城隍庙), enjoy authentic Shanghai cuisine at lunch, stroll along Nanjing Road (南京路) in the afternoon, then head to the Bund (外滩) from sunset into the night to shoot sunset and night views. This is a classic one-day city itinerary in Shanghai.

• In-depth photography or extension to North Bund (北外滩): half day–1 full day
  If you’re particularly interested in photography or urban landscapes, you can:

  • Shoot in the North Bund (北外滩), Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥), Zhapu Road Bridge (乍浦路桥), and Shanghai Postal Museum (上海邮政博物馆) area in the morning or afternoon
  • Return to the main viewing platform on the Bund (外滩) at dusk to capture blue hour and night scenes

Overall suggestions:

• First-time visitors should reserve at least 2–3 hours for the Bund (外滩) itself.
• If you want to shoot from multiple vantage points and visit nearby attractions along the way, plan for half a day to a full day.

Must-See Highlights & Classic Photo Spots

1. The Bund’s “World Architecture Expo”

• The historic buildings along the Bund (外滩, The Bund) are its very soul, known collectively as the “World Architecture Expo”.
• Architectural styles are diverse, including Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, and Neoclassical, vividly reflecting the glory days when modern Shanghai was the financial center of the Far East.
• It’s recommended to start from the Nanjing East Road intersection (near the Peace Hotel) and stroll slowly north or south along Zhongshan East 1st Road, taking time to study each building’s façade, reliefs, columns, and portico details.

2. Oriental Pearl Tower & Lujiazui Skyline

• Although the Oriental Pearl Tower (东方明珠) is located in Lujiazui (陆家嘴) in Pudong, viewed from the Bund it forms the most iconic part of the skyline across the river.
• At night, the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, Jin Mao Tower, and other skyscrapers light up together, their reflections shimmering on the Huangpu River, making them the stars of the Bund’s night view.
• You can go up to the observation decks of the Oriental Pearl Tower or other high-rises to look back over the Bund (外滩, The Bund) and the Huangpu River, creating a two-way “Bund–Lujiazui (外滩–陆家嘴)” viewing experience.

3. Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥)

• Located at the confluence of Suzhou Creek and the Huangpu River, this is one of Shanghai’s earliest steel bridges and a frequently seen city landmark in films and TV dramas.
• Classic photo spots:
  • Shoot from on the bridge or at either end to capture Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥) + the Lujiazui skyline in one frame—one of the most representative images of Shanghai.
  • At night, the bridge lighting interweaves with the distant skyscraper lights, creating a richly layered scene.

4. Zhapu Road Bridge (乍浦路桥)

• Located not far upstream on Suzhou Creek, this is a prime spot for photographing the Lujiazui skyline + Shanghai Postal Museum (上海邮政博物馆).
• Shooting southeast from the bridge, you can frame the surface of Suzhou Creek, the domed roof of the Postal Museum, and the distant high-rises, ideal for sunset and blue-hour photography.

5. North Bund “Little Dome” (北外滩小巨蛋)

• A modern building in the North Bund (北外滩) riverside area, nicknamed the “Little Dome” for its resemblance to a small stadium.
• With open views and relatively fewer crowds, it offers a more relaxed vantage point to enjoy the panorama of both banks of the Huangpu River, and is quieter compared with the main Bund promenade.

6. Xiepu Road Ferry Terminal (歇浦路渡口)

• Located along the Huangpu River, this is one of the most popular spots for photographing the Lujiazui night skyline.
• Shooting from here at night, you can capture a fairly complete silhouette of the Lujiazui skyscraper cluster and their reflections, perfect for long-exposure shots of boat light trails on the river.

7. Bund Viewing Platform (外滩观景台)

• The main viewing platform in the central section of the Bund, with excellent views and one of the most crowded areas for visitors.
• Overlooks the Huangpu River, Lujiazui on the opposite bank, and the architectural ensembles on both sides—arguably the best place to feel the Bund’s atmosphere of “history facing modernity.”
• Ideal for:
  • Daytime vistas and nighttime light shows
  • Portraits and city silhouettes

8. Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街)

• Although not directly on the river, it connects closely with the Bund and is the most important commercial street between the Bund (外滩, The Bund) and People’s Square (人民广场).
• Highlights:
  • A concentration of department stores, time-honored brands, and trendy fashion outlets
  • Neon lights and crowds at night create a distinctive urban scene
• It’s a great add-on to a Bund itinerary for shopping and food.

9. North Bund Yacht Marina (北外滩游艇驿站)

• Located in the North Bund riverside area, with several yachts moored and a relatively quiet environment.
• Ideal for:
  • Shooting compositions that combine yachts + the Huangpu River + the Lujiazui skyline
  • Evening strolls and short breaks

10. Shanghai Postal Museum (上海邮政博物馆)

• Located on the banks of Suzhou Creek near Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥), this historic building features strong European architectural influences.
• Highlights:
  • The building itself is highly photogenic; its dome and columns are often used as backdrops in photos
  • Exhibits inside trace the history of Shanghai’s postal service, appealing to visitors interested in urban history
• Can be combined with Zhapu Road Bridge (乍浦路桥) and Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥) to form a “niche photography + culture” walking route.

Practical Visiting Tips

Timing and Crowds

• Try to arrive around sunset: You can shoot from sunset into the night, with rich changes in light — the best time for both photography and strolling.
• Try to avoid public holidays and major event days (such as New Year’s Eve and big festivals). The Bund (外滩) gets extremely crowded and some sections may have traffic control in place.
• If you want relatively “clean” shots with fewer people, consider:
  • Early morning or late at night on weekdays
  • Overcast or drizzly days (fewer people, and night reflections look great).

Clothing and Gear

• Summer:
  • During the day, make sure to protect yourself from the sun (sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses). Temperatures are high and UV is strong.
  • Bring enough drinking water to avoid staying too long under direct sun.
• Winter:
  • It’s windy by the river and feels colder than the actual temperature, so it’s best to wear a windproof jacket, scarf, hat, and other warm layers.
• All year round:
  • You’ll walk a lot along The Bund (外滩), so comfortable sneakers or flat shoes are recommended.
  • Photography lovers can bring a tripod and wide-angle lens for night shots and wide scenes.

Photography and Equipment

• Night photography:
  • You can use your phone’s night mode or manually adjust exposure;
  • If using a camera, bring a tripod for long-exposure shots of ship light trails and lights on the Huangpu River (黄浦江);
  • When shooting portraits, avoid frequent use of strong flash directly on people to prevent disturbing other visitors.
• You can try film-style apps like dazz to capture photos with an old Shanghai vibe.

Safety and Etiquette

• The Bund (外滩) is very crowded, so keep a close eye on your belongings, especially your phone, camera, and wallet.
• Do not climb over railings, scale high places, or stand in dangerous spots for photos; pay attention to safety along the river.
• When using tripods, drones, and other equipment:
  • Follow local regulations; some areas ban or restrict drone flights;
  • Place tripods as close to the edge as possible to avoid blocking pedestrian flow.

Getting Around and Useful Tools

• It’s recommended to download and use in advance:
  • Shanghai Metro App: to check routes, transfers, and first/last train times;
  • Map/navigation apps: to see real-time crowd levels and traffic control information.
• Using shared bikes is convenient for linking The Bund (外滩), North Bund (北外滩), and the Suzhou Creek (苏州河) waterfront, but note:
  • Do not ride in the main viewing platforms and other crowded core areas of The Bund (外滩);
  • Park only in designated areas according to regulations to avoid fines or having the bike towed.

Other Small Tips

• If you plan to dine near The Bund (外滩) or visit popular restaurants (such as Waiband Jiayan (外滩家宴) or trendy riverside Western restaurants), be sure to book in advance; dinner hours are extremely busy.
• The pavement at The Bund (外滩) can get slippery on rainy days, so watch your step. At the same time, reflections from lights on rainy nights are actually great for photos — make good use of them.
• Check the lighting schedule and weather forecast for the day in advance so you can plan your shooting and walking pace sensibly.

Recommended Food Around the Bund (外滩 The Bund)

1. Li Baixie · Crab Roe Noodles · Riverside Restaurant (The Bund · Yuyuan Branch 李百蟹·蟹黄面·临江餐厅（外滩·豫园店）)

• Why it’s recommended: Specializes in crab roe dishes and is a popular choice for crab roe noodles around the Bund (外滩 The Bund) – Yuyuan (豫园) area.
• Signature dishes:
  • Signature Crab Roe Noodles: Rich crab roe, fragrant and silky broth, and pleasantly chewy noodles — a must-order here.
  • “Nuojiji” Desserts: Soft and glutinous in texture, great as a post-meal sweet.
• Average spend: Around ¥150 per person (~$21 USD).
• Location: Near Yuyuan (豫园) and the Old City God Temple Street (城隍庙老街) area, about a 15–20 minute walk from the Bund (外滩 The Bund). Ideal for a meal when combining Yuyuan–Bund sightseeing.

2. Waitan Jiayan · Shanghai Cuisine (The Bund Nanjing Road Branch / The Bund Yuyuan Branch 外滩家宴·上海菜（外滩南京路店 / 外滩豫园店）)

• Why it’s recommended: Focuses on classic Shanghai-style cuisine (本帮菜), well-reviewed by both locals and visitors. Suitable for group dinners or family trips.
• Signature dishes:
  • Braised Eel Back in White Sauce (Baishao Shanbei 白烧鳝背): Eel with a delicate texture and rich, savory sauce — a typical Shanghai flavor.
  • Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish (Songshu Guiyu 松鼠桂鱼): Crispy outside, tender inside, sweet-and-sour and appetizing, with an intricate presentation that’s great for photos.
  • Osmanthus Red-Braised Pork (Guihua Hongshaorou 桂花红烧肉): Fatty but not greasy, with a light osmanthus aroma — an upgraded take on classic Shanghai red-braised pork.
• Branch locations:
  • The Bund Nanjing Road Branch (外滩南京路店): Near the eastern section of Nanjing Road (南京路 Nanjing Road) Pedestrian Street, convenient for dining before or after walking to the Bund (外滩 The Bund).
  • The Bund Yuyuan Branch (外滩豫园店): Close to Yuyuan (豫园) and the City God Temple (城隍庙), easy to pair with an Old Town (老城厢) visit.

3. Hu Mansion · Shanghai Cuisine (沪公馆·上海菜)

• Why it’s recommended: The ambiance has an old-Shanghai feel, and the dishes are refined — good for travelers who want to systematically sample Shanghai cuisine (本帮菜).
• Recommended dishes:
  • Stir-Fried Rice Cakes with River Shrimp and Seaweed (Taicai Hexia Chao Niangao 苔菜河虾炒年糕): Soft, slightly charred rice cakes, sweet and fresh river shrimp, and seaweed adding a briny note — a very Shanghai-style dish.
  • Eel Shreds in Hot Oil (Xiangyou Shansi 响油鳝丝): Eel cut into shreds and quickly stir-fried over high heat, then drizzled with hot oil to release its aroma; flavorful and savory.
• Location: Near the Bund (外滩 The Bund), within walking distance from the Bund viewing area — convenient for dinner after enjoying the night skyline.

4. Manner Coffee (Guoke Binjiang Branch Manner咖啡（国客滨江店）)

• Why it’s recommended: A popular local coffee chain with friendly prices and consistently good coffee — a nice rest stop while strolling along North Bund (北外滩).
• Features:
  • Wide range of coffee options, including lattes, Americanos, pour-overs, and more;
  • The shop is right by the river, perfect for grabbing a coffee to go and sitting on a riverside bench to enjoy the river view.
• Location: Next to the North Bund Lighthouse (北外滩灯塔), close to the North Bund riverside promenade and yacht marina.

5. Taste of China Wei Restaurant (Taste of China 味餐厅)

• Why it’s recommended: Focuses on an immersive dining experience, combining lighting, music, and themed décor — great for travelers looking for a “special occasion” or “ceremonial” dinner.
• Cuisine style: Primarily Chinese dishes with creative plating and modern twists, very photogenic.
• Location: Near the Yuyuan (豫园) area, easy to pair with a Yuyuan–Bund night tour.

6. Other Dining and Snack Suggestions

• Along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街):

  • Numerous chain restaurants, time-honored snack shops, dessert places, and cafés — convenient for a simple meal or afternoon tea.

• Yuyuan City God Temple Snack Area (豫园城隍庙小吃区):

  • Try traditional Shanghai snacks such as xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjian (pan-fried buns), and tangtuan (sweet glutinous rice balls). Prices and wait times vary; ideal for snacking as you stroll.

• High-Rise Western Restaurants/Bars Along the Bund (外滩沿线高层西餐厅/酒吧):

  • If your budget allows, consider high-floor or rooftop restaurants along the Bund (外滩 The Bund), where you can dine while overlooking the night view of the Huangpu River (黄浦江). Advance reservations are recommended.

Recommended Areas to Stay Near 外滩 (The Bund)

1. Around 人民广场 (People’s Square) / 南京路 (Nanjing Road)

• Best for: First-time visitors to Shanghai, travelers who want convenient transport and a good balance of shopping and sightseeing.
• Pros:
  • Metro Lines 1, 2, and 8 intersect at People’s Square, giving quick access to 外滩 (The Bund), 豫园 (Yuyuan Garden), 陆家嘴 (Lujiazui), 徐家汇 (Xujiahui), and other main areas;
  • You can walk to 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street), and from there it’s about a 10–15 minute walk to 外滩 (The Bund);
  • The area is packed with malls, restaurants, convenience stores, and cafés, so daily needs are well covered.
• Accommodation types:
  • A wide range from budget chain hotels to mid- and high-end business hotels, generally with good value for money.

2. Around 陆家嘴 (Lujiazui)

• Best for: Travelers or business visitors who care about night views, want river-view rooms, and have a relatively comfortable budget.
• Pros:
  • Located directly across the river from 外滩 (The Bund), with river-view rooms overlooking the Huangpu River and the historic Bund skyline;
  • A short walk or quick metro ride takes you to Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and other landmarks;
  • Fantastic night views, and one of the best vantage points for shooting “panoramic Bund” photos.
• Features:
  • Hotels are mostly mid- to high-end or luxury brands, with higher prices, but facilities and service standards are also more comprehensive.

3. 北外滩 (North Bund) Area

• Best for: Travelers who want to escape the crowds but still be able to walk to 外滩 (The Bund) and stroll along the river.
• Pros:
  • Quieter than the main Bund waterfront, with relatively fewer people;
  • Within walking distance of 北外滩滨江步道 (North Bund Riverside Promenade), 北外滩小巨蛋 (North Bund “Little Arena”), and 北外滩游艇驿站 (North Bund Yacht Marina);
  • Some hotels also offer good river views, usually at slightly lower prices than river-view hotels in 陆家嘴 (Lujiazui).
• Transport:
  • Close to Metro Line 12, International Cruise Terminal Station (国际客运中心站), making it convenient to reach 外滩 (The Bund), 陆家嘴 (Lujiazui), 豫园 (Yuyuan Garden), and other areas.

4. Along and Around 外滩 (The Bund)

• Best for: Travelers who want to “step out the door and be at the Bund” and place top priority on location.
• Pros:
  • Within walking distance of the Bund viewing platforms and the historic “Museum of International Architecture” buildings;
  • Some hotels housed in renovated historic buildings are full of old Shanghai charm, ideal for travelers who value atmosphere.
• Features:
  • Mostly high-end or boutique hotels with higher prices;
  • During holidays and peak seasons, you’ll need to book in advance, and there may be minimum-night stay requirements.

Booking Tips

• If your trip is mainly for city sightseeing, it’s recommended to prioritize staying around 人民广场 (People’s Square) / 南京路 (Nanjing Road) for the best overall value;
• If your trip focuses on night views and a relaxed experience, consider river-view hotels in 陆家嘴 (Lujiazui) or 北外滩 (North Bund);
• Use reputable booking platforms to check holiday price fluctuations and cancellation policies in advance, as room rates can rise significantly in peak seasons.

One-Day Itinerary Around the Bund (外滩, The Bund)

(Including walking routes and nearby attractions)

Itinerary Overview

• Recommended duration: About 1 day (can be shortened to half a day depending on your energy and interests)
• Main areas covered: Yuyuan & Old Town → Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街, Nanjing Road) → The Bund (外滩, The Bund) daytime → North Bund/Suzhou Creek photo spots → The Bund night view

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Morning: Yuyuan & Old Town Atmosphere

09:00 – 11:30 Yuyuan – City God Temple – Old Street Stroll

• Take the metro to Yuyuan Station (豫园站) and walk into the Yuyuan and City God Temple area.
• Wander around the Yuyuan scenic area (buy a ticket to enter the garden if interested) to experience Jiangnan-style classical gardens and the charm of old Shanghai.
• Try local snacks on the Old Street near City God Temple (xiao long bao, pan-fried buns, sweet rice dumplings, etc.), and browse time-honored shops.

11:30 – 12:30 Lunch

• Options:
  • Li Bai Xie · Crab Roe Noodles · Riverside Restaurant (The Bund · Yuyuan Branch)（李百蟹·蟹黄面·临江餐厅（外滩·豫园店））: Try their signature crab roe noodles and sticky sweet desserts; average spending around ¥150 (~$21 USD) per person;
  • Or head to Waitan Jiayan · Shanghai Cuisine (The Bund Yuyuan Branch)（外滩家宴·上海菜（外滩豫园店）） for classic Shanghainese dishes like braised eel, squirrel-shaped mandarin fish, and osmanthus red-braised pork.

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Afternoon: Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street & The Bund Daytime Views

12:30 – 13:00 Walk to Nanjing East Road Pedestrian Street (南京东路步行街, Nanjing East Road)

• Walk from Yuyuan along Fuyou Road or Henan Middle Road to Nanjing East Road, and feel the transition from the old town to a modern commercial street.

13:00 – 15:00 Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

• Stroll along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street:
  • Visit department stores and time-honored brands;
  • Take a break at a café or dessert shop along the street.
• If you’re low on energy, you can shorten this part and head to the Bund earlier.

15:00 – 16:00 Walk to the Bund & First Look at the “Museum of International Architecture”

• Walk from Nanjing East Road to Zhongshan East 1st Road (中山东一路) to officially enter the Bund area.
• Focus on:
  • The “Museum of International Architecture” (万国建筑博览群): the façades and details of the historic buildings along the road;
  • Landmark buildings such as the Fairmont Peace Hotel and the Shanghai Customs House.

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Late Afternoon: North Bund & Suzhou Creek Photo Spots

16:00 – 17:30 Waibaidu Bridge – Shanghai Postal Museum – Zhapu Road Bridge

• From the central section of the Bund, walk north along the river to Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥):
  • On the bridge, capture the classic composition of Waibaidu Bridge + Lujiazui skyline.
• Continue to the nearby Shanghai Postal Museum (上海邮政博物馆):
  • You can photograph its European-style exterior; if time allows, go inside to see the postal history exhibits.
• Then walk to Zhapu Road Bridge (乍浦路桥):
  • Around sunset, shoot the combined view of Suzhou Creek + Postal Museum + Lujiazui.

17:30 – 18:30 North Bund “Little Dome” & Yacht Marina

• Depending on your energy and interest, continue on foot or by car to the North Bund Little Dome (北外滩小巨蛋) and North Bund Yacht Marina (北外滩游艇驿站):
  • It’s relatively quiet here with wide-open views, a great place to enjoy the panoramic scenery of both banks of the Huangpu River;
  • Sit on the riverside benches for a short rest while waiting for night to fall.
• If you need a coffee or drink, head to Manner Coffee (Guoke Binjiang Branch)（Manner咖啡（国客滨江店））, where you can sip coffee while enjoying river views.

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Evening: Return to the Main Bund Viewing Area for Night Scenery

18:30 – 20:00 The Bund Viewing Platform Nightscape

• Check the seasonal lighting time (around 19:00 in summer, 18:00 in winter) and return in advance to the Bund Viewing Platform (外滩观景台) area:
  • Photograph the Lujiazui skyline and Huangpu River during the blue hour;
  • After the skyscrapers and riverside buildings are fully lit, take another round of night photos.
• Try different shooting spots:
  • The main viewing platform with its wide, head-on view of Lujiazui;
  • Move slightly north or south to find less crowded vantage points.

20:00 – 21:30 Dinner & Late-Night Snack

• If you want to dine while enjoying the night view, you can choose:
  • Hu Gongguan · Shanghai Cuisine（沪公馆·上海菜） near the Bund: order local dishes such as stir-fried rice cakes with river shrimp and preserved vegetables, and shredded eel in sizzling oil;
  • Or reserve a high-floor restaurant/bar along the Bund for a riverside dinner with a view (advance booking required).
• After dinner, you can take another short stroll along the Bund to savor the “Museum of International Architecture” under the night lights.

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Optional Half-Day Simplified Route (For Tight Schedules)

Afternoon–Evening (about 4–5 hours)

1. Take the metro to East Nanjing Road Station (南京东路站) → stroll Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (about 1 hour).
2. Walk to the Bund → stroll along the “Museum of International Architecture” (about 1 hour).
3. Continue walking to Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥) for photos (about 30–40 minutes).
4. Return to the Bund Viewing Platform before dusk → shoot sunset and night views (about 1.5–2 hours).
5. Have dinner near the Bund, then head back.

This itinerary lets you experience both the Bund’s historic architecture and the city’s night skyline without feeling too rushed, making it suitable for most first-time visitors to Shanghai.