When visiting the Bund, one of Shanghai’s most iconic areas, stepping inside its historic buildings is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. This guide highlights the architectural gems along Zhongshan East 1st Road that are open for visitors. Each site offers a glimpse into Shanghai’s rich history and cultural significance. I have personally visited each location to ensure you have the best experience possible.
1. Taikoo Shing Old Site (now BUND 22)
📍 Address: No. 22 Zhongshan East 2nd Road
🆓 Reservation: Not required
⏰ Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Featuring a stunning high-ceilinged atrium, the Taikoo Shing Old Site has transformed into BUND 22, a vibrant shopping center where you can appreciate the unique architecture while indulging in a bit of retail therapy.
2. Asia Building Old Site (now Dongyi Art Museum)
📍 Address: 3rd Floor, No. 1 Zhongshan East 1st Road
🆓 Reservation: Policies vary by exhibition
⏰ Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Known as the first building on the Bund, the Asia Building showcases a breathtaking dome. The Dongyi Art Museum hosts various exhibitions, allowing you to enjoy contemporary art within this historic space.
3. Shanghai Club Old Site (now Waldorf Astoria Hotel)
📍 Address: No. 2 Zhongshan East 1st Road
🆓 Reservation: Not required
Once the famed Dongfeng Hotel, this historic site features a century-old elevator and exudes the charm of old Shanghai, making it a perfect stop for a drink or meal while soaking in the atmosphere.
4. Yili Bank Old Site (now Hushen Art Gallery)
📍 Address: Room 311, No. 3 Zhongshan East 1st Road
🆓 Reservation: Not required
⏰ Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (Closed Mondays)
With stunning views of the Huangpu River, the Hushen Art Gallery showcases a variety of artworks. It’s an excellent place for art enthusiasts to appreciate the riverfront scenery.
5. HSBC Building Old Site (now Pudong Development Bank)
📍 Address: No. 12 Zhongshan East 1st Road
🆓 Reservation: Not required
⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Home to one of the most beautiful dome murals in Shanghai, the HSBC Building offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the city’s banking history and is a must-see for architecture lovers.
6. Bank of Communications Old Site (now Shanghai Federation of Trade Unions)
📍 Address: No. 14 Zhongshan East 1st Road
🆓 Reservation: Not required
⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
As the youngest historical building on the Bund, this site features an exhibition on labor models, providing insight into the city’s labor history and achievements.
7. Macalline Bank Building Old Site (now Jiushi Art Space)
📍 Address: 2nd Floor, No. 18 Zhongshan East 1st Road
🆓 Reservation: Not required
⏰ Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
The second floor of this building serves as an exhibition space where visitors can admire the impressive atrium that connects the levels, making it an architectural marvel.
8. Huizhong Hotel Building (now South Building of Peace Hotel)
📍 Address: No. 19 Zhongshan East 1st Road
🆓 Reservation: Policies vary by exhibition
⏰ Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
The fifth floor features the Swatch Art Center, which opens for exhibitions, allowing guests to engage with art in a historically rich setting.
9. Sassoon House Old Site (now North Building of Peace Hotel)
📍 Address: No. 20 Zhongshan East 1st Road
🆓 Reservation: Not required
This legendary hotel with a storied past continues to attract visitors with its exquisite architecture and vibrant history, making it a key stop on your Bund exploration.
10. Bank of China (Shanghai Branch)
📍 Address: No. 23 Zhongshan East 1st Road
🆓 Reservation: Not required
⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
As the only building in the international architectural complex constructed by Chinese architects, this site hosts a historical exhibition on the bank’s journey, providing a unique perspective on the evolution of banking in Shanghai.
11. Yokohama Specie Bank Old Site (now Industrial and Commercial Bank of China)
📍 Address: No. 24 Zhongshan East 1st Road
🆓 Reservation: Not required
⏰ Hours: Weekdays 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Featuring a stunning golden hall on the first floor, this site also includes a bank museum that showcases the history of banking in Shanghai.
12. Former British Consulate (now Bund Source No. 1)
📍 Address: No. 33 Zhongshan East 1st Road
🆓 Reservation: Policies vary by exhibition
The courtyard is regularly open for visits, and the interior is accessible during exhibitions, offering a glimpse into diplomatic history in Shanghai.
13. Bund History Exhibition Hall
📍 Address: No. 475 Zhongshan East 1st Road
🆓 Reservation: Not required
⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed Mondays)
Located next to the Monument to the People’s Heroes, this small exhibition hall tells the story of the Bund’s history through various artifacts and multimedia displays.