The Bund, Shanghai

Background

Most of the Bund's 52 historic buildings in different styles were built in the early 20th century: the clock of the Custom House (1927) and the dome of the HSBC Building (1923) were landmarks of the Far East's financial centre. Across the river, the skyscrapers of Lujiazui face the century-old buildings, forming the classic 'past and future' frame.

Local customs

• In the early morning the Bund belongs to Shanghai residents: jogging, tai chi and walking birds
• in the evening it belongs to tourists and couples having wedding photos taken. Shanghainese 'haipai' culture prizes style, and the manners of old Shanghai gentlemen and lane-house life are the city's foundation.

Religion & beliefs

• The buildings along the Bund are mostly protected historic buildings, with no particular religious sites
• nearby, the Waibaidu Bridge and Holy Trinity Cathedral bear witness to the treaty-port era and can be seen from outside.

Rules that apply here

Travel tips

• The Bund is open all day and free
• the lights usually go off around 10 p.m., so go after dinner. Take the ferry from the Bund to Lujiazui for the best view from the water
• combine with Nanjing Road, Wukang Road and Tianzifang.