There are many things to do and see in Shanghai and I’ll be sharing some of my favorites, but the most famous of all the sites is The Bund. The Bund or “Waitan” in Shanghainese, literally means the “outer beach”. It’s a water front area that runs along the Huangpu River and Shongshan Road, which splits the Lujiazui and the Pudong districts and it’s their respective skylines that make this location so dramatic, whether it be day or night. Within those skylines you’ll find a staggering breadth of architectural design from Romanesque, Gothic Revival, Renaissance Revival, Baroque, Neo-Classical, to one of the richest collections of Art Deco in the world.
I like to start my day on southern part of the Bund and walk north. Midway through the walk I like to take the transit tunnel underneath the Huangpu River that “pops up” on the Pudong side right near the communications tower aka; the Pearl of Shanghai. I typically buy a round trip ticket for only a couple of RMBs. Its Chinese display of lights and music that is sure to give you a smile.
You’ll also get up close and personal with the Pearl and take in the view of the Bund from both sides of the river. It was during an escalator ride back up from the tunnel that I caught a group of Chinese tween boys taking pictures of my back side. I turned around and said, “It’s not that great guys, save your phone memory”. I’m sure they didn’t understand me but they giggled just the same. Being tall will garner attention here…be prepared to be randomly photographed.
After making the round trip to the Pearl, continue walking north on the Bund and you will find yourself at Huangpu Park, which is home to the Monument to the Peoples Heros. It’s at this park that Shongshan Road intersects with the popular shopping street of Nanjing Road. If you are inclined, you can continue down Nanjing Road and shop til you drop.
Should it be evening, I highly recommend taking one of the river cruises. There are a couple of options in terms of the experience but none will disappoint because views from the river at night are stunning! Once you’ve finished your cruise, I suggest heading to the Hyatt Grand on the Bund. Go to the Cloud 9 bar on the top floor and grab a drink and take in the view. There will likely be a cover charge but it’s worth it. I’ve taken in the view of the Bund from several locations and this one remains my favorite. (feature picture taken from Cloud 9) You’ll notice an “odd amenity” at this spot, a hot tub. Don’t put any member of your body in that thing! I dipped my toes in once and the water felt like gel…ewww! Stick to the drinks and the view!