On the west bank of the Huangpu River, The Bund is Shanghai’s colonial core. In the early 20th century, this was Asia’s most important financial district, and it attracted foreign investors from Europe and North America. It houses a rich landscape of historic buildings, trendy street cafés and boutique hotels.
The Bund strikes a perfect contrast to the modern heights of Pudong, which looms squarely on the opposite bank of the river. Accommodation near The Bund enjoys the most enviable location in Shanghai, offering access to the best sightseeing, dining and walking in the city.
The sites on the waterfront are bundled together, and a leisurely stroll is the best way to enjoy them. Customs House and the former British Consulate are favorite attractions, joined by the Peace Hotel, several monuments and the Bund History Museum.
Travelers can walk to the southern end of the embankment, marked by Signal Tower, for the best selection in dining and shopping. Hong Qi Xiang Fabric Market is here, along with up-market bars, art galleries a lively café culture.
Many of the hotels on The Bund are housed in heritage buildings. Some of them were in the charter group of hotels to open here and remain some of the finest in the city. The majority of guests are here for pleasure, whether it’s a weekend escape or a month-long holiday. The big, international hotels still offer comprehensive business services.
The Bund has enjoyed a thriving international atmosphere for over a century, and it’s still a gateway to the consulate district. Most consulates are short distance west, but the Russian, Luxembourgian and Uzbekistani consulates are right here on the Bund.
