The Bund: An Architectural Collection

Posted on March 22, 2011 by Pushpitha Wijesinghe
Among Shanghai’s many world class architectural masterpieces, The Bund occupies an important place and is also a well known tourist attraction. For centuries, it has been considered a symbol of China.
The name ‘Bund’ refers to a wall built along a mud-covered waterfront in Anglo-Indian language. At the time when the British opened their first office in this very same location in 1846, it really appeared to be so. Positioned on the Huangpu River’s west bank, and towards the southern part of Suzhou Creek, the site became home to some of China’s first foreign settlements. During Shanghai’s early years of trade, the Bund became popular among locals as the height of elegance.

Today, besides the impressive historical buildings one can see many new constructions that have been put up in the very same site. One of the most fascinating features here is the wall that is of 771-metres in length which has been created in a way to retain flood. At the top of the wall visitors will find a colourful walkway paved with stunning tiles which is well known as the perfect location for sightseeing. Complete with flowers and garden lights of typical European style, this pathway is ideal for a laid-back stroll while exploring the beauty and magnificence of the Huangpu River. While gazing at the river, visitors will witness different cargo vessels, tourist ferries and even small locals boats.
The Shanghai Bund is home to 52 buildings built according to diverse architectural styles that include Neo-Classical, Art Deco, Gothic, Beaux-Art, Renaissance and Romanesque. Some of the most notable buildings are Asia Building, Union Building, China Merchants Bank Building, Sassoon House, Yokohama Specie Bank Building, The Customs House and much more.
This picturesque site can be easily accessed by Shanghai Metro Line 2 while the east Nanjing Road station is the nearest. The Bund and its attractions can be explored more conveniently by staying at a Pudong hotel Shanghai such as Pudong Shangri-La, Shanghai which is a renowned Shanghai luxury hotel that offers unparallel services to ensure a comfortable stay in this part of the city.

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