Riverside Café West Bund Shanghai
A vibrant arts district in Shanghai, featuring contemporary galleries in repurposed industrial spaces along the Huangpu River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Riverside Café West Bund Shanghai
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant arts district in Shanghai, featuring contemporary galleries in repurposed industrial spaces along the Huangpu River.
"Great way to spend a lazy afternoon if you're in the area, and it doesn't get crowded at all."
Free Gallery Exploration
Many galleries are free to wander, offering great art without admission fees. :art:
Check Exhibition Schedules
Showtime scheduling can be confusing; confirm times beforehand to avoid confusion. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
West Bund Artistic Center
Repurposed aircraft factory
Experience contemporary art and fashion in a unique industrial setting by the Huangpu River.
Interactive Art Installations
TeamLab exhibition (check availability)
Immerse yourself in digital art, like the interactive waterfall and wave exhibits.
Riverside Promenade
Along the Huangpu River
Enjoy a leisurely stroll with views of the river and the evolving West Bund landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the West Bund Art Scene
Art & Refreshments
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Starbucks/Cafés with a nice view in Shanghai
Free Gallery Exploration
Many galleries are free to wander, offering great art without admission fees. :art:
Check Exhibition Schedules
Showtime scheduling can be confusing; confirm times beforehand to avoid confusion. :calendar:
Backpack Storage
Be aware that backpacks may need to be stored in lockers before entering showrooms. :handbag:
Riverside Strolls
Enjoy the scenic Huangpu River views along the promenade. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Gallery Exploration
Many galleries are free to wander, offering great art without admission fees. :art:
Check Exhibition Schedules
Showtime scheduling can be confusing; confirm times beforehand to avoid confusion. :calendar:
Backpack Storage
Be aware that backpacks may need to be stored in lockers before entering showrooms. :handbag:
Riverside Strolls
Enjoy the scenic Huangpu River views along the promenade. :walking:
Cafe for Refreshments
A cafe near the entrance offers a good spot for a break. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the West Bund's unique industrial setting and the abundance of free-to-enter galleries showcasing contemporary art. The riverside location and interactive exhibits are highlights, though some find exhibition scheduling confusing and note a lack of amenities like a gift shop. The area's ongoing development means some parts are under construction.
"The area is pretty much closed, I think it used to be with installations but no longer. The opposite side has been developed close to the bund, the rest of the area is now a new construction area.
Worth to visit but you won’t find anything in the containers.
There is a huge hall which was an airplane manufacturing side."
Tobias Kwetina
"Around the Center you will find standalone containers and buildings hosting an assortment of galleries and studios, each with its own charm. Free to wander about, and some of the galleries also offer free admission. Great way to spend a lazy afternoon if you're in the area, and it doesn't get crowded at all (despite being free!), actually enjoyed the exhibitions here more than the ticketed ones in the surrounding museums."
XY Lim
"There were good shows but the show time scheduling was a mess. The receptionist could not explain anything properly which left us so confused 😵💫 No one reminded us backpacks were not allowed and had to be stored in lockers when visiting the showrooms when we got our tickets at the reception until the moment we were about to enter the showroom 😓"
Gabi surf
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The West Bund Art Center is accessible via public transport. The nearest metro stations are often a walk away, so consider taking a taxi or ride-sharing service for convenience, especially if you're coming from further afield in Shanghai.
Parking availability can be limited, especially during peak times. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to reach the West Bund.
The West Bund is best explored on foot, allowing you to discover various galleries and installations. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
Currently, there are no dedicated shuttle services within the West Bund. The area is designed for pedestrian exploration, so be prepared to walk between venues.
Yes, ride-sharing apps are a convenient way to get to and from the West Bund, and to navigate between specific points within the larger area if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Many galleries and studios in the West Bund offer free admission, making it a great way to experience art without cost. However, special exhibitions or specific venues like the TeamLab show will require tickets.
Entry to the general West Bund Artistic Center area and many of its galleries is free. Ticket prices vary for special exhibitions, such as the TeamLab show which can cost around 180 RMB for adults.
Tickets for popular exhibitions like TeamLab are typically available for purchase online through their official website or authorized ticketing platforms. It's advisable to book in advance.
Opening hours can vary significantly between galleries. It's best to check the specific hours for each venue you plan to visit, as some may have different schedules or close on certain days.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or group bookings for specific ticketed exhibitions. Check the individual exhibition websites for details on potential discounts.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The West Bund features a diverse range of contemporary art, including installations, fashion displays, and digital art. The Artistic Center itself is housed in a repurposed aircraft factory, adding to the unique atmosphere.
Yes, the West Bund can be family-friendly, especially if you visit during less crowded times. Interactive exhibits like those at TeamLab are particularly engaging for children.
Yes, there is a cafe located near the entrance of the West Bund Artistic Center for refreshments. The surrounding area is also developing with more dining options.
Photography policies vary by gallery. Some may allow non-flash photography, while others might restrict it entirely. Always check for signage or ask gallery staff before taking pictures.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll be exploring on foot. Dress in layers as indoor temperatures can vary, and Shanghai weather can be unpredictable.
📸 📸 Photography
The industrial architecture of the repurposed aircraft factory, the riverside promenade with city views, and the unique art installations themselves offer great photographic opportunities.
Generally, flash photography is prohibited in most art galleries to protect the artworks. Always confirm with gallery staff or look for signage.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting along the riverside. Weekday afternoons can also provide fewer people for unobstructed shots.
While general photography might be allowed, specific exhibitions may have their own rules. Be mindful of any restrictions posted within the exhibition spaces.
Tripods are often not permitted in galleries to avoid obstructing other visitors. Check with individual venues for their specific policies on tripods and professional equipment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options might be limited to a cafe, and be prepared for potential locker use for backpacks.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts on a Budget
While there isn't a gift shop, the bookstore offers a chance to browse art anthologies, which can be a more affordable souvenir.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the West Bund's Artistic Landscape
Beyond the main centers, the West Bund is characterized by its standalone containers and buildings that host a variety of galleries and studios, each with its own distinct charm. This creates an exploratory feel, encouraging visitors to wander and discover hidden artistic gems. While the area is still developing, it offers a refreshing alternative to more traditional museums, with a relaxed atmosphere that doesn't feel overly crowded, even on free admission days.
For those interested in immersive experiences, the TeamLab exhibition has been a popular draw, utilizing the unique architectural elements of the old water tanks to create captivating digital art. However, it's important to note that exhibition schedules and content can change, and some visitors have reported confusion regarding showtimes and staff communication.
Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
Comfort is key when exploring the West Bund. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the area is best navigated on foot, and you'll likely be covering a good amount of ground.
Getting to the West Bund is best done via public transport or ride-sharing services, as parking can be limited. Metro stations are available but may require a walk, so taxis or apps offer a more direct route.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit