The Bund in Shanghai draw people from all over the globe, and it requires some legwork to find a hotel there that really lives up to its promise of a view of the river. Situated directly on the promenade with windows looking out at the skyline of Pudong, Regent Shanghai on The Bund is one such hotel, and its room are truly large by anyone’s standards. It’s a hotel where you pay for square footage.
And location… But if either (or both) of those is important to you when staying in Shanghai, this is a property that make sense. The article details what a suite look like here, how the public spaces feels, and what you get for the tariff.
There is no fluff, just the view and the layout.
Room and View Review
Regent Shanghai on The Bund
It has high ceiling and pale stone. The entrance hall sucks up sound, making you automaticly lower your voice as soon as you enter.
Most days check-in are smooth; be prepared for a little queue at peak times such as the October holiday week.
The lobby arrangement change with the seasons, sometimes featuring a huge single floral creation and other times some sculptural metal work beneath the piano. The ground floor is formal without being stuffy, and if you happen to be around in the early evening, there will often be someone playing the piano.
The corridors is long. As in really long. If you’re at the very end of the floor, bring comfy shoes; it’s a proper walk from the lifts.
After a day or two, you’ll remember where your turn is thanks to the carpet pattern.
Suites here come with a separate living room; proper breathing space rather than a token armchair shoved beside the bed. Unpack in peace, spread out some work documents, or simply enjoy not seeing your suitcase from the pillow.
Under the cloche on the round table is a welcome treat, typically fruit, a couple of pastries and something chocolate. It is nothing groundbreaking, but it is nice to have after a long flight.
It’s all about the river here: floor-to-ceiling windows look out onto the Huangpu, with the towers of Pudong dead ahead and barges floating by throughout the day. When you book, make sure to ask for a room facing the river or else you’ll be looking out over a back street, completely defeating the entire point. The view change every moment depending on river traffic and weather.
Mornings are quietest on the water, but the afternoon see more boat action.
In the living area, there’s a long narrow console running alongside the window, ideal for propping up your laptop or simply sitting with some coffee as the river wakes up.
Bedroom curves around the window wall; sitting up in bed faces the view. Living room/bedroom has louvred shutters that can close or fold back, depending on whether you prefer the area divided or open. They’re decorative but functional, which is rarer than it should of be for a hotel of this size.
Bedside control panels includes curtain, temperature, and lighting. It takes a minute to get used to the panel, but it works reliably once you’ve pressed each button at least once by mistake.
Ask housekeeping for several pillows with different levels of firmness. Soft is the default. The suite itself include an oval tub set next to the window, allowing you to soak while gazing out at the river.
If you’re the type who care more about soaking than viewing the scenery, this may not be the feature for you.
You’ll have to decide whether you care more about having a bath with a view, or simply showering and moving on.
There is marble everywhere. The Washlet features a full control panel. Plenty of counter space to let two people get ready without jabbing elbows.
Nothing fancy, just the basics. That is what you would expect at this price point. Amenities are provided in small boxes.
There’s a dedicated drawer for the hair dryer, and it actualy works: decent power here.
Minibar card prices will cause you to wince, but if all you want is some caffeine, there’s a Nespresso machine with free pods. Coffee isn’t high-end, but it’s better then instant. At night, things change entirely.
The river turns into a ribbon of reflected colour, Pudong lights up and the facades of the Bund glow. It’s worth staying inside one evening just to observe the transformation from dusk onwards.
The gym also faces the river. Depending on your frame of mind, that might motivate or distract you. The space doesn’t tend to get too busy first thing in the morning, and equipment is well-maintained and current.
The Regent Shanghai lives up to its promise of an unobstructed view of the Bund and large rooms. Those are the two things you’re paying for and if that’s what tops your list then the hotel do them well. For everything else…
The amenities, the dining, the service, this is solid but nothing remarkable. This is all about the view and the location. And the view is worth it.
Has there ever been a hotel on the Bund whose view was worth the price tag? What did you look for when choosing where to stay in Shanghai?
