The area around Jiefang Bei Lu on the west side of the river was the former British Concession, which is still home to many colonial-style buildings. The Astor Hotel originally opened in 1863 and hosted many diplomats over the years. It was restored in 2010 and continues to be a luxury hotel today.
Many banks continue to occupy the historic structures in this old financial district.
The Ritz Carlton re-opened in 2013 but retains a neo-Classical exterior. It is set in a beautiful park that seems a world away from a bustling city.