Yan Zhou
I’ve been guiding tours in Shanghai for years, and the number one question I get is: “Should I spend my evening on the Bund or head to Pudong for the skyline?” Honestly? You don’t have to choose—but knowing the quirks of each side makes all the difference. Let me walk you through the real deal, from photo spots to payment headaches.
Why This Comparison Matters
Most travelers think the Bund is the skyline. But the Bund is the riverside promenade lined with colonial buildings, while the actual skyscrapers rise across the Huangpu River in Pudong. The view from the Bund looks at Pudong; the view from Pudong looks back at the Bund. If you only do one, you miss half the story. And here’s the kicker—many online guides tell you to go to the Bund at sunset, but don’t mention that the sun sets behind the Bund, so Pudong’s buildings are backlit. For epic photos, you need to be on the Bund in the morning or at night, not sunset. I learned that the hard way after a dozen disappointed clients.
The Bund: Classic Colonial Charm
The Bund is where old Shanghai meets the river. It’s a 1.5-km walkway lined with 52 historic buildings in styles from Gothic to Art Deco. It’s free, open 24/7, and always buzzing.
Best Viewing Spots Along the Bund
- At the Huangpu Park (north end): The iconic “Bulova Watch” building area—less crowded, great angle for the Pudong skyline.
- By the Customs House clock tower (middle): Classic postcard shot, but expect crowds after 7pm.
- Near the Yan'an Road crossing (south): More locals, good for a quieter stroll.
Pro Tip: The Bund’s railing is double-decker. The lower level is right by the water—fewer people, but you’ll miss the higher perspective. Go to the upper level for unobstructed skyline views.
Practical details: No ticket needed. The nearest metro is East Nanjing Road (Line 2/10), Exit 3. Walk east about 8 minutes. Cash is rarely accepted at street vendors; use Alipay or WeChat. If you don’t have them, bring small bills—some shops may still take cash, but not guaranteed. Google Maps is unreliable; use Apple Maps or download AMap (set to English). Press the “English” button on the app.
Best time to visit: 7pm–9pm when the Pudong buildings are lit up. Sunrise is also beautiful (5:30am summer, 7am winter) but fewer lights. Avoid noon—the sun is harsh and the Bund is packed with tour groups.
Photography Tips for the Bund
Bring a tripod if you want long exposures of the Huangpu River. The best spot for the classic shot is at the corner of Zhongshan East 1st Road and Guangdong Road—you’ll see photographers gathered there. If you’re using a phone, use night mode. For a unique angle, climb to the Bar Rouge rooftop (open to public during certain hours) or the Peace Hotel rooftop (pricey, but amazing).
Pudong Skyline: Futuristic Megalopolis
Pudong is the business district that sprouted in the 1990s, home to the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Jin Mao. From here, you look back at the colonial Bund—and it’s a match made in heaven.
Where to See Pudong from the Bund Side
Actually, if you’re in Pudong, you want to view the Bund. The best spot is along Binjiang Avenue, the promenade directly across from the Bund. It’s less crowded and offers a calm view of the historic skyline. Access it from Lujiazui metro (Line 2, Exit 1), walk straight toward the river.
Going Up: Observation Decks
If you want to be inside the skyline, go up one of the towers. Shanghai Tower (the twisting one) has the highest observation deck in the world at 546m. Ticket: around 180-220 RMB (check Trip.com for current price). Book in advance on Trip.com or Klook—you can use your passport. The queue can be 30+ min on weekends. Tip: Go up 30 minutes before sunset to see the transition from day to night. The deck is indoor but has glass floors—if you’re scared of heights, stick to the Bund.
Alternative: Jin Mao Tower’s observation deck (88th floor) is cheaper (~120 RMB) and has an outdoor section when weather permits. Oriental Pearl is touristy but offers a revolving restaurant.
Payment: Credit cards (Visa/MC) are accepted at ticket counters, but many self-service machines only take Chinese mobile payments. If you buy online, no problem. Bring your passport for entry.
Navigation: Use Apple Maps to find “Shanghai Tower Observation Deck”. From Lujiazui metro, Exit 4, then walk 5 minutes underground through the Lujiazui Link shopping mall.
Direct Comparison: Bund vs Pudong Skyline
| Aspect | The Bund | Pudong Skyline |
|---|---|---|
| View Direction | Looks at Pudong skyscrapers | Looks at colonial Bund buildings |
| Best Time | Night (7-9pm) or early morning | Sunset + night (5:30-8pm) |
| Cost | Free | Observation decks: 120-220 RMB |
| Crowds | Heavy after 7pm weekends | Moderate except at sunset |
| Accessibility | Flat, wheelchair-friendly | Elevators, but long queues |
| Photo Quality | Wide angle, skyline in background | Up-close, architectural details |
| Bathrooms | Public toilets every 400m, often queue | Clean facilities in towers |
How to Experience Both in One Evening
I always recommend this route to my clients who only have one night:
- 5:00pm – Head to Pudong. Take metro Line 2 to Lujiazui. Go up the Shanghai Tower or Jin Mao for sunset views. Spend about 1.5 hours up there.
- 6:45pm – Walk to Binjiang Avenue. Take the escalator down from the tower complex, cross the main road, and walk to the river. Watch the Bund lights turn on (usually around 7pm).
- 7:15pm – Cross the river to the Bund. Option A: Take the short ferry (only 2 RMB!) from Dongchang Road Ferry Terminal to the Bund Financial Square. Bring coins—they only accept cash or local transit card. Option B: Metro from Lujiazui to East Nanjing Road (1 stop), then walk to the Bund.
- 7:45pm – Walk the Bund promenade. Start from the north end (Peace Hotel) and stroll south. Grab a drink at a rooftop bar if you like.
- 9:00pm – Dinner nearby. I recommend Lost Heaven on the Bund (Yunnan cuisine, stunning decor) or M on the Bund (western, great view). Both need reservations—ask your hotel to book.
Pro Tip: Avoid the Bund tunnel “sightseeing” between 7-8pm—it’s a tourist trap (colorful lights, but overpriced and disappointing).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t use Google Maps for directions. It doesn’t work well in China. Use Apple Maps or AMap.
- Don’t expect to use cash everywhere. Street food, small shops, and even some taxis only take WeChat/Alipay. Ask your hotel to help you set up Alipay with an international card—it works for most tourists.
- Don’t book the Bund sightseeing bus. It’s stuck in traffic and you’ll miss the magic of walking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Verdict
Here’s a non-consensus take: the Bund is the better overall experience for first-timers. It’s free, easy, and gives you the classic postcard view of Pudong. But if you’re a photographer or architecture enthusiast, invest in an observation deck in Pudong to see the ornate Bund facades lit up. Combining both in one night is totally doable—just follow my route above.
One last thing: Bring a portable charger. Your phone will die from all the photos and navigation. I’ve seen too many tourists stranded with no way to call a taxi. Stay safe, and have an amazing time in Shanghai!
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