Ready to explore the Bund in a whole new way? This North Bund city walk offers the perfect route to discover hidden gems and scenic spots while enjoying a leisurely 5-kilometer stroll. Ideal for photography lovers and those seeking a calm yet enriching experience, this route will take you through some of the best landmarks in Shanghai, offering breathtaking views and perfect Instagram-worthy moments. From historical buildings to tranquil riverside cafes, get ready to explore the charm of North Bund with this ultimate guide.
Route: Nanjing East Road Metro Station (Line 2/10) Exit 2 (地铁南京东路站2号口) ➡️ Lihe Yangxing Building (礼和洋行大楼) ➡️ Jiujiang Road at Zhongshan East 1st Road (九江路中山东一路) ➡️ The Bund (外滩) ➡️ Beijing East Road at Zhongshan East 1st Road (北京东路中山东一路) ➡️ Shami Building (沙美大楼) ➡️ Rockbund (New Trinity Church) (洛克·外滩源新天安教堂) ➡️ Zhapu Road Bridge (乍浦路桥) ➡️ FLOWER Coffee Bar (汭·FLOWER COFFEE BAR) ➡️ Shanghai Postal Museum (上海邮政博物馆) ➡️ Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥) ➡️ Riverside Platform (滨江亲水平台) ➡️ Tanggu Road at East Daming Road (塘沽路东大名路) ➡️ Ping’anli (平安里) ➡️ North Bund International Passenger Center (北外滩国客中心).
1. Lihe Yangxing Building (礼和洋行大楼)
Start your journey at the Lihe Yangxing Building, an iconic landmark with stunning arched doorways. Capture the Oriental Pearl Tower (东方明珠) framed perfectly within the arches—a beautiful combination of old and new Shanghai in one photo.
2. Jiujiang Road at Zhongshan East 1st Road (九江路中山东一路)
This quiet street offers fewer crowds and beautiful scenes, making it a great spot for peaceful strolls and photography. The view here is lovely, perfect for taking gorgeous street shots without the hustle and bustle of tourists.
3. Beijing East Road at Zhongshan East 1st Road (北京东路中山东一路)
Known for being a popular location for wedding photos, this area captures the essence of romance with Shanghai’s stunning skyline and classic architecture. It’s a must-visit for capturing memories or just soaking in the ambiance.
4. Shami Building (沙美大楼)
Take the side entrance on Beijing East Road, and ride the elevator to the rooftop bar on the seventh floor for a fantastic view. The arch-shaped window frames a perfect shot of the historic colonial buildings alongside Lujiazui’s modern skyscrapers—the Shanghai Tower (上海中心大厦), Jin Mao Tower (金茂大厦), and Shanghai World Financial Center (环球金融中心). It feels like a scene from a movie!
5. Rockbund (洛克·外滩源)
This area is filled with beautiful old buildings, including the historic Gothic Revival-style New Trinity Church (新天安教堂). There are plenty of charming cafés in the area where you can relax. Don’t forget to snap a photo of the church with the Lujiazui skyscrapers in the background—truly a unique blend of history and modernity.
6. Zhapu Road Bridge (乍浦路桥)
Known as the “Monk’s Bridge,” this spot offers incredible views of both sides of the Huangpu River. Whether you’re shooting with a professional camera or a smartphone, the scenery here—churches, skyscrapers, and sparkling water—makes it a photographer’s dream.
7. FLOWER Coffee Bar (汭·FLOWER COFFEE BAR)
Located along the Suzhou Creek, this charming café is often referred to as Shanghai’s version of the Seine. Sip on a cup of coffee while taking in the serene river views, and don’t miss the skyline of Lujiazui’s skyscrapers across the water. The entire street offers countless opportunities for stunning photos.
8. Shanghai Postal Museum (上海邮政博物馆)
Known as the “Gate of Shanghai,” this museum features a grand entrance that perfectly frames the Lujiazui skyline, including all four iconic skyscrapers. Stand at the entrance, snap a picture, and you’ll have one of the best city shots imaginable.
9. Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥)
This century-old bridge has appeared in countless films and TV shows. Its historical significance and picturesque design make it a classic spot for photography, especially with the city skyline as your backdrop.
10. Riverside Platform (滨江亲水平台)
A hidden gem, this platform is usually quiet and offers the best views of the Lujiazui skyline across the river. The tranquility of the spot makes it ideal for relaxed photos and moments of reflection away from the crowds.
11. Ping’anli (平安里)
Featuring red-brick buildings set against the backdrop of Lujiazui’s skyscrapers, Ping’anli offers a perfect composition for photos. The Yujingpu River runs through the area, adding to its picturesque charm. It’s one of the classic photography spots in the North Bund.
12. North Bund International Passenger Center (北外滩国客中心)
End your walk at the North Bund International Passenger Center, a futuristic landmark. Inside, visit the MANNER coffee shop (MANNER咖啡) where you can enjoy a great cup of coffee while taking in the view of the skyscrapers. For a final photo-op, head to the “Little Egg” (小巨蛋), a distinctive architectural feature that’s perfect for aerial shots.