Photo Spots
Head to the northern end near the Garden Bridge for a unique angle of the skyline.
CN
Tourist Attraction·Iconic, Buzzy, Historic, Futuristic
Waitan, globally recognized as The Bund, serves as the symbolic heart of Shanghai. Stretching along the western bank of the Huangpu River, this historic district is lined with dozens of neoclassical buildings that once housed major financial institutions. Directly across the water, the Lujiazui skyline rises with futuristic marvels like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the wide pedestrian walkway, which is particularly magical at dusk when the lights of both the old and new worlds flicker to life. While it remains a bustling hub for tourists and locals alike, the area is well-managed and offers plenty of space for photography. Whether you are interested in the colonial history of 'Old Shanghai' or the neon-lit energy of the modern metropolis, Waitan provides an essential and unforgettable urban experience.
Waitan, globally recognized as The Bund, serves as the symbolic heart of Shanghai. Stretching along the western bank of the Huangpu River, this historic district is lined with dozens of neoclassical buildings that once housed major financial institutions. Directly across the water, the Lujiazui skyline rises with futuristic marvels like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the wide pedestrian walkway, which is particularly magical at dusk when the lights of both the old and new worlds flicker to life. While it remains a bustling hub for tourists and locals alike, the area is well-managed and offers plenty of space for photography. Whether you are interested in the colonial history of 'Old Shanghai' or the neon-lit energy of the modern metropolis, Waitan provides an essential and unforgettable urban experience.
You might want to ask
Address
8 Zhong Shan Dong Er Lu, Waitan, Huang Pu Qu,Shang Hai Shi, China, 200120
Phone021 6330 3333
Highlights
Unobstructed views of the Lujiazui skyline and Oriental Pearl Tower.
Stunning contrast between neoclassical buildings and modern skyscrapers.
Atmospheric evening lighting as the city glows at dusk.
Wide, well-managed pedestrian promenade along the Huangpu River.
Rich historical context featuring early 20th-century architecture.
Before you go: Waitan essentials
Extremely popular during national holidays, leading to significant crowding.
The promenade is entirely outdoors, so check the weather before visiting.
Security is tight and the area is safe, but stay mindful of your belongings in large crowds.
Timing
The skyline lights typically turn on at dusk and off around 10:00 PM.
Best For
Iconic skyline views and scenic evening walks.
Currency
CNY ¥
Average Cost
$70-$130 p/day
Time of Day
Lunch, Dinner, Late Night
River Crossing
Take the local ferry to Pudong for a cheap and scenic way to see both sides of the river.
Languages Spoken
Mandarin, English
Occasion Tags
Tourists, Locals, Family, Solo
Reviews
4.7
Excellent517 reviews
Waitan, or The Bund, is universally acclaimed by visitors as the essential landmark of Shanghai, boasting a 4.7-star rating. Reviewers are consistently captivated by the dramatic contrast between the historic colonial architecture on the promenade and the futuristic skyscrapers across the Huangpu River. Many suggest visiting at dusk to witness the magical moment when the city lights turn on. While the area is known for being lively and crowded, especially on weekends, visitors note that it is well-managed and feels very safe. Photographers particularly appreciate the unobstructed panoramic views of the Lujiazui skyline, including the Oriental Pearl Tower. Overall, it is described as a must-visit spot that perfectly captures the dual energy of Shanghai's past and future.
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Location
Waitan, Shanghai, Shang Hai Shi, China
