The Bund was once the most famous street in Asia. Facing the river is a row of buildings built in Western architectural styles that have changed little since the 1930's, and was the center of foreign interests in China. It was China's "Wall Street", and the 3rd largest financial market in the world. Across the river is one of the world's busiest construction zones, with it's most visible landmark, the Oriental Pearl TV tower providing a very popular photo-op for millions of tourists.

Nanjing Road, which starts at the Bund, is the central shopping district in Shanghai.