Step into one of Shanghai's most anticipated cultural venues – the West Bund Theatre is now open to all.

Just 20 meters from the Huangpu River, this new landmark sits in the heart of a growing neighborhood surrounded by shopping malls, hotels, galleries and art centers. The riverside views alone are worth the visit.

Guided by the concept of "Art for Us," the Shanghai West Bund Theatre features a 1,673-seat theater and a 208-seat smaller one. The venue was designed by Danish architectural studio SHL – the team behind the Shanghai Library East Branch – and spans a total floor area of 23,000 square meters.

Its striking façade, marked by undulating lines, echoes the rippling water of the nearby Huangpu River, blending architecture with the natural flow of the riverside area.

The theater is also pet-friendly, with outdoor rest areas and facilities designed for animal companions.

Opening Details

• Trial opening starts from April 17.

Public areas open during trial period:

• First-floor: The theater lobby (剧院大堂)
• Third-floor: Zai Shui Chang Lang viewing deck ("在水长廊"观景平台)

Opening hours (trial period):

• 12pm-6pm (Last entry before 5:30pm, closed on Mondays)

Time slots for the viewing platform (reservation required):

• 12pm-1pm
• 1:30pm-2:30pm
• 3pm-4pm
• 4:30pm-5:30pm

Please check official updates for future hours and access changes.

Public entry points: Box office & Gate W3

Venue: Shanghai West Bund Theatre | 上海西岸大剧院

Address: 2290 Longteng Ave | 龙腾大道2290号

How to Make a Reservation

New reservation slots are released every Tuesday for the following week.

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Open the "西岸大剧院" (Shanghai West Bund Theatre) WeChat mini-program, and switch on the built-in translator if you cannot read Chinese.
• Tap "Venue appointments" on the homepage
• Click "Make an appointment now" to enter the booking page
• Choose a date and time slot
• Confirm your booking
• View your ticket under "My own - My Bookings"
• Customer Service: 400-126-5688 (Available 10am-8pm)

Reservation Reminders

1. Each time slot has limited capacity.
2. One account can reserve up to six spots per day.
3. You must present the QR code ticket for entry.
4. Late arrivals may be denied entry or asked to rebook.
5. Cancellations are allowed. However, missing three bookings in one month may affect your ability to reserve future visits.

Visitor Guidelines

1. Smoking is strictly prohibited throughout the venue.
2. Pets and hazardous items are not allowed inside the theater buildings.
3. No outside food or drinks in the indoor areas.
4. Please avoid using selfie sticks or equipment that could pose safety risks.
5. Do not touch exhibits or installations; no graffiti nor vandalism.
6. Entry may be limited if the number of visitors exceeds 500. Please follow on-site instructions.

Let's take a closer look at what makes the open areas so special.

Theater Lobby

Spanning 1,540 square meters, the open-concept lobby invites guests into an immersive art space. Earth-toned ceramic tiles line the walls, while the mirrored stainless steel ceiling mimics the rippling surface of water, reflecting each visitor in a shimmering overhead view.

Relax in the lounge seating, or enjoy the soon-to-open coffee bar and gift shop. The lobby will also host rotating art events open to the public.

Zai Shui Chang Lang viewing platform | "在水长廊"观景平台

Located on the third floor, this riverside platform offers panoramic views of the Huangpu River, with boats drifting past and sights like the Gate M West Bund Dream Center and the West Bund Museum just below. Look across the river and you'll even spot the future Shanghai Grand Opera House under construction.

Don't Miss This West Bund Theatre Highlight '41.5'

Part of the 2025 Dragonfly Project, "41.5" is a curated showcase of original works from the Emerging Theater Artists Competition at the Wuzhen Theater Festival, bringing fresh creativity to the stage. The whole project aims to connect outstanding young playwrights with wider audiences and foster a sustainable creative ecosystem.

Date: May 23-24, 7:30pm; May 25, 2:30pm

Tickets: 180 yuan (US$25)