Discovering the Hidden Gems of Shanghai’s Iconic Waterfront: My First Day in The Bund
As a traveler, I always try to find unique experiences that allow me to immerse myself in the local culture and history of the places I visit. So when I arrived in Shanghai, one of China’s most vibrant cities, I knew I had to explore its iconic waterfront, The Bund.
The Bund is a popular destination for tourists, known for its stunning views of the Shanghai skyline and its historic buildings that reflect the city’s rich history. But as I walked along the promenade on my first day in Shanghai, I was determined to discover some hidden gems that would allow me to experience The Bund in a more authentic way.
One of the first things that caught my attention was the Yokohama-Shanghai Friendship Park, a small park located at the southern end of The Bund. As I walked through the park, I learned about the historical relationship between Shanghai and Yokohama, two port cities that played important roles in the development of international trade in the 19th century.
The park features several monuments and sculptures that commemorate this relationship, including a large statue of Chinatown’s most famous resident, Confucius. I also enjoyed the beautiful gardens and ponds that provided a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Another hidden gem I discovered was the Shanghai Club Building, an iconic Art Deco building located on The Bund’s eastern side. Originally built in 1927 as a private club for foreigners, the building now houses several restaurants and bars that offer stunning views of the city skyline.
I decided to stop at the rooftop bar for a drink and was blown away by the panoramic view of Shanghai’s towering skyscrapers. As I sipped my cocktail, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this iconic building in such an intimate way.
As the sun began to set, I made my way to the Waibaidu Bridge, a historic bridge that spans the Huangpu River and connects The Bund with the Pudong district. From there, I enjoyed one of the most breathtaking views of Shanghai’s skyline, with the colorful lights of the city reflecting off the river below.
But what made this experience even more special was the chance encounter I had with a local photographer who was also enjoying the view. We struck up a conversation and he shared with me some of his favorite spots to capture Shanghai’s stunning skyline, including some hidden gems that I would have never discovered on my own.
As my first day in The Bund came to an end, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to discover some of its hidden gems
Follow me for more adventures, see you tomorrow.
Mary