Shanghai developed into the financial center of China.

The Bund (Wai Tan) is one of the symbols of Shanghai

Located along the Huangpu River, the Bund shows off Shanghai’s outstanding foreign buildings, most of which were erected before 1937. To the Europeans, the Bund was Shanghai’s answer to Wall Street. In the 1930s, the string of buildings hosted the city's financial and commercial centers, and the world's greatest banks and trading empires established a base here.

The Bund (Wai Tan) is one of the symbols of Shanghai

“The Bund” was derived from the Anglo-Indian term that literally means “a muddy embankment.” At the beginning of the 19th century, the area was a mere shallow waterfront covered with reeds.

At the northwestern end of the Bund was Huangpu Park (once called British Public Gardens). More of a pedestrian walkway than a conventional park, this area was also under the control of the Brits. It was forbidden territory to Chinese people for years, unless they were accompanying employers. Today, the park is free and open to everyone; it is a well-maintained walkway providing excellent views over the river to Pudong and down the river to the old Customs House and other colonial relics.

The Bund (Wai Tan) is one of the symbols of Shanghai

Pu Dong Financial Zone

Pu Dong Financial Zone

Pu Dong Financial Zone

Pu Dong Financial Zone

Bank of Shanghai

ABN-AMRO Bank

Shanghai Yangpu Bridge