The Bund History Museum

Introducing The Bund History Museum

The Bund History Museum, located at 475 Zhongshan East 1st Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai , offers insights into Shanghai's development through the lens of the Bund's trajectory. It serves as a patriotic education center in Shanghai.

The museum showcases the Bund's transformation over the past 150 years , featuring precious historical photographs, representative archival documents, and artifacts . Using modern multimedia technology, the museum showcases the Bund's transformation over the past century through digital photo frames, projections, touch screens, and e-books.

The exhibition content includes the old appearance of the Bund when banks from various countries gathered to form the " Wall Street of the East " and the " International Building Complex " , as well as the protection of Bund buildings, the construction of the central business district and financial cluster belt over the past 30 years of reform and opening up.

The memorial hall is divided into two major sections: the history of the old Bund before liberation and the development of the new Bund after liberation. It takes " The Bund - the starting point of modern Shanghai's urban development " and " The Bund - the window of Shanghai's reform and opening up today " as the main themes, and shows the modern history of Shanghai through the Bund's rapid changes.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Monday to Friday 9:00-16:00, closed on statutory holidays

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Most Popular FAQs for The Bund History Museum

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Bund History Museum showcases the history of The Bund, one of Shanghai's most iconic landmarks. It tells the story of Shanghai's transformation from a small fishing village to a thriving international metropolis. The museum highlights the colonial period, the rise of European influence, and the development of the modern financial district.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Bund History Museum is located at 5 The Bund, in the heart of Shanghai. It is easily accessible by metro, with the nearest station being East Nanjing Road Station (Line 2 or 10). Alternatively, you can take a taxi or bus, or enjoy a scenic walk along the Bund from nearby attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, with the last entry at 4:30 PM. The best times to visit are in the morning or during weekdays to avoid the crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entry to the museum is free of charge. Tickets are not required, but you may need to pick up a free entry ticket at the entrance during peak hours.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No, tickets are not required in advance. However, during peak tourist seasons, it may be a good idea to arrive early to secure entry.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore the museum, depending on your interest in the exhibits and reading materials.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The exhibition on the history and architecture of the Bund, featuring detailed models and photographs.
• The interactive digital displays that explain Shanghai's transformation over the years.
• The section focusing on Shanghai's international concessions and the diverse cultural influences that shaped the city.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in both Mandarin and English. Audio guides are also available for free in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and other languages upon request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

While the museum itself doesn’t offer many outdoor views, you can capture the architecture of the Bund from the museum’s windows, which provide a view of the famous buildings along the waterfront.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the exhibit that introduces the history of the Bund, then proceed to the interactive sections that explore Shanghai's colonial past. End with the multimedia displays that show the city's rapid modernization in the 20th century.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

The museum is only open during the day, and there are no light shows or special tours at night. However, the Bund area is a popular spot for evening strolls, where you can enjoy the night-time cityscape.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The museum can be crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings, particularly Tuesday to Thursday.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The museum has clean restrooms and rest areas. There are no food or beverage facilities inside the museum, but there are many cafes and restaurants nearby along the Bund and Nanjing Road.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The museum is fully accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with elevators and ramps available. It is also child-friendly with interactive displays suitable for younger visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is not necessary for entry as the museum is free. However, nearby restaurants and shops accept both mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Hakkasan Shanghai, an upscale Chinese restaurant near the Bund.
• Shanghai Bund Café for casual dining with river views.
• Many local cafes and bakeries along Nanjing Road and the Bund.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are several vegetarian and halal food options available in the nearby restaurants, particularly in the Bund area and Nanjing Road.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Peninsula Shanghai – A luxury hotel located right on the Bund with stunning views of the river.
• The Fairmont Peace Hotel – Another historic hotel with a prime location on the Bund.
• Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund – A modern hotel offering stylish accommodations near the museum.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Oriental Pearl Tower – One of the tallest towers in the city offering panoramic views of Shanghai.
• Yu Garden – A classical Chinese garden located a short distance away in the Old City.
• The Bund itself – A famous waterfront area, perfect for a stroll along the river.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops inside the museum, but you can find various shops along the Bund and Nanjing Road selling traditional Chinese items like silk, tea, and calligraphy items.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From the museum, you can easily take a taxi, walk to nearby metro stations (East Nanjing Road or Lujiazui on Line 2), or continue your exploration along the Bund with its many transportation options.