Audio Guide: The Bund Sightseeing Tour (Self Guided), Shanghai

The Bund is a waterfront area and a protected historical district in central Shanghai. The term "bund" entered English from Hindi and originally referred to a dyke or embankment. The Chinese name for the Bund is unrelated in origin: it literally means "outer bank," distinguishing this part of the riverfront from the "inner bank" beside Shanghai's Old Town.

The area displays a strong European influence, with many buildings reflecting architectural styles such as Gothic, Baroque, Neoclassical, Romanesque, Art Deco, and Renaissance. Some of the city's finest restaurants are also located here. From the 1860s to the 1930s, the Bund was the wealthy and powerful center of the foreign establishment in Shanghai, operating within the city's treaty-port system.

This row of 52 historic buildings long played a key role in economic relations between China and the outside world. One notable landmark at the northern end of the Bund is Waibaidu Bridge, which spans Suzhou Creek and links the Bund with Hongkou District.

The former British Consulate, dating from the late 19th century, stands as a reminder of Shanghai's colonial past. Nearby, the Bank of Indochina Building is a fine example of Neoclassical architecture, reflecting the city's international trading history.

The Old Bank of China Building, Peace Hotel, Chartered Bank Building, Russo-Chinese Bank Building, and Customs House are all structures that tell the story of foreign presence and financial influence in old Shanghai. Each building features distinctive design elements that blend Eastern and Western influences.

The HSBC Building, the Great Northern Telegraph Company Building, and the China Merchants Bank Building further enhance the area's architectural appeal, illustrating Shanghai's remarkable transformation over the past century.

Visiting the Bund offers a fascinating journey through Shanghai's history, where East meets West in a captivating architectural and cultural blend. From strolling along the riverside promenade to admiring its historic landmarks, the area provides a rewarding experience for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone interested in Shanghai's past.