April 25, Shanghai — Against the stunning backdrop of Shanghai’s iconic skyline, the Tsung-Dao Lee Institute (TDLI) brought together international members from the United States, Malaysia, Colombia, Nigeria, Mexico, Indonesia, and beyond for an unforgettable cross-cultural experience: an immersive walking tour of the Bund’s century-old architectural gems.

Designed as a “living classroom,” this special event invited participants to explore the history, culture, and rapid modernization of Shanghai—offering firsthand insights into the city’s evolution as a global center and the deeper story of Chinese modernization.

The tour began at the former Shanghai Municipal Government Building on the Bund. Completed in 1914 in the neoclassical style, this building once served as the headquarters of the Shanghai Municipal Council during the era of the International Settlement. After Shanghai’s liberation in 1949, it became the seat of the Shanghai Municipal People's Government. On October 2 of that year, the first Five-Starred Red Flag was raised here in front of the building. Through an exhibition titled Building a People's City — Former Site of Mayor Chen Yi’s Office, the group explored historical documents and reconstructed scenes, gaining a vivid sense of Shanghai’s early days under the new government.

Next, participants visited No. 12 The Bund, the former headquarters of The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC). Completed in 1923, the building was once hailed by The Times of London as "the most luxurious building from the Suez Canal to the Bering Strait." Today, it houses the Shanghai Pudong Development Bank. The group marveled at the grandeur of the building’s architecture and was particularly struck by how it embodies a unique blend of Eastern and Western design elements—a living testament to Shanghai’s spirit of openness and cultural fusion. 

Continuing along the Bund, the group reached the confluence of the Huangpu River and Suzhou Creek—an area often referred to as the cradle of Shanghai. Here, with the help of old photographs taken from identical viewpoints, the guide, Jerry Zhu, vividly illustrated the tremendous changes this area has witnessed over the past century. The historic Wusong Road Bridge and former rowing club have been transformed into vibrant public spaces, where history and modernity meet seamlessly. Standing by the river, participants admired the contrast and harmony between historic landmarks and the glittering skyline, expressing awe at Shanghai’s rapid development and enduring charm.

TDLI’s cross-cultural walking tours have become a cherished tradition, running for five consecutive years and providing a unique window into China’s historical narrative for the global academic community. Through these initiatives, TDLI reaffirms its commitment to fostering international dialogue, deepening mutual understanding, and bridging the worlds of science, technology, and the humanities.

Looking ahead, TDLI will continue to expand its cross-cultural programs, offering even richer, more diverse experiences that inspire global perspectives and promote a shared future.

Written by: Du Linchen, Wang Wen

Source: SJTU TDLI

Editor on Duty: Yan Cheng