Whether it’s your first visit to Shanghai or your tenth, the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower (东方明珠塔) is an unmissable landmark that defines the city's skyline. More than just a TV tower, it's a symbol of modern China, a portal to breathtaking views, and a multifaceted entertainment complex that captures the vibrant spirit of Shanghai. From its record-breaking heights to its rich cultural significance, here is your complete guide to experiencing this world-famous icon.
An Icon in the Sky: An Overview
Towering at 468 meters, the Oriental Pearl Tower stands as a proud symbol on the tip of Lujiazui in the Pudong district, directly across the Huangpu River from the historic Bund. Since its opening in 1994, it has been a must-visit destination, drawing millions of visitors each year to experience its unique blend of futuristic architecture, panoramic city views, history, and entertainment.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Height: 468 meters (Asia's first, world's third tallest tower at the time of construction)
- Architect: Designed by Jiang Huancheng of the Shanghai Modern Architectural Design Co. Ltd
- Construction: Built between 1991 and 1995
- Status: A National 5A-level Tourist Attraction and a member of the World Federation of Great Towers
Exploring the Tower: Level by Level
The tower's unique design, featuring eleven spheres of varying sizes, is inspired by a classical Tang Dynasty poem describing pearls of different sizes falling onto a jade plate. Each sphere houses different attractions.
| Level (Height) | Name & Attractions | Key Experience |
|---|---|---|
| 350m | Space Module (Top Sphere) | The highest observatory, offering a thrilling bird's-eye view of the entire city |
| 267m | Revolving Restaurant | Dine with a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of Shanghai as the restaurant slowly rotates |
| 263m | Main Sightseeing Floor & Transparent Glass Skywalk | The primary observation deck featuring the global first 360-degree full-transparent glass sightseeing corridor |
| 90m | Space City | Indoor amusement and recreational facilities located in the lower sphere |
| At Base | Shanghai Municipal History Museum | A fascinating journey through old Shanghai with lifelike scenes and artifacts |
| Outdoor Plaza | Free Public Access Area | City square and Zero-Meter Hall (free entry) with regular events |
Location & How to Get There
The Oriental Pearl Tower's location is one of its greatest assets, sitting at the heart of Shanghai's most dramatic urban landscape.
Precise Address
No. 1 Century Avenue, Lujiazui
Pudong New Area, Shanghai
Landmark Context
Perfectly positioned at the "tip of Lujiazui," facing the Huangpu River. It creates a stunning visual dialogue with the historic Bund on the opposite shore.
Getting There is Easy:
By Metro
Take Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station (Exit 1) – short walk to the tower
By Public Bus
Lines: 81, 82, 85, 774, 795, 870, 939, 983, Lujiazui Tourism Loop Line
By Car/Taxi
Drive via Yan'an Elevated Road – parking is limited (public transport recommended)
By Huangpu River Cruise
Oriental Pearl Tourist Wharf at tower base – combine cruise with tower visit
History & Symbolism: More Than Just a Tower
The Oriental Pearl Tower is a powerful symbol of Shanghai's renaissance and China's rapid modernization. Its construction in the early 1990s marked the beginning of Pudong's transformation from farmland into a global financial center.
Architectural Ambition
Its postmodern design was chosen through a competition for being novel, full of artistic expression, and perfectly harmonious with the emerging Lujiazui landscape. The design successfully combined advanced engineering with traditional cultural poetry, making it a masterpiece of "high-tech" architecture.
Embodying Shanghai's Spirit
The tower is widely seen as embodying the Shanghai City Spirit: "Inclusiveness, Pursuit of Excellence, Openness, and Magnanimity." Its three main spheres are said to represent the past, present, and future, reflecting the city's continuous drive to scale new heights.
Visitor Information: Tickets, Hours & Tips
Opening Hours
- Daily: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Last Admission: 8:30 PM
- Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours
Best Time to Visit
Late afternoon is ideal – enjoy daytime views, sunset over the city, and witness Shanghai's legendary neon-lit skyline come to life at night.
Ticket Information
The tower offers several ticket combinations. Prices are subject to change, so checking the official channels for the latest information is recommended.
Standard Tickets:
Include access to Main Sightseeing Floor (263m) and lower sphere attractions. "Three-Ball" ticket includes Space Module (350m).
Popular Bundles:
- Tower + Huangpu River Cruise (classic combination)
- Tower + Buffet at the Revolving Restaurant (premium dining experience)
Discounts:
Discounted tickets for seniors (70+), children, disabled visitors (valid ID required). Free admission for active military personnel (certain levels).
Special Promotions:
City-wide promotions (e.g., 50% off selected bundles during Shanghai Tourism Festival).
Pro-Tips for a Smooth Visit
Avoid the Crowds
Visit on weekdays or after 8:00 PM to reduce waiting times
Book in Advance
Purchase tickets online to skip ticket office lines
Prepare for Security
All bags go through screening – prohibited items not allowed
Comfortable Shoes
Be prepared for walking and potential line standing
Fear of Heights?
Glass skywalk is optional – standard observation floors offer equally stunning views without vertigo
What Our Travelers Say
"A must-see attraction. The buffet at the revolving restaurant is excellent, offering different cuisines. The views are beautiful. Everything was smooth, unlike the two-hour wait I experienced at the Eiffel Tower!"
— Verified Traveler from the UK
"Walking on the transparent glass floor 263 meters in the air was the highlight of our trip! An incredible and slightly terrifying experience. If you have a fear of heights, don't worry, there are plenty of other areas with normal floors and amazing windows."
— Family from Australia
"More than just a viewpoint. The historical museum at the base was a hidden gem. It beautifully connected old Shanghai to the modern miracle we were standing in. It gave the whole visit a much deeper meaning."
— Solo Traveler from Canada
Plan Your Unforgettable Visit
Let Vrythax Kvet handle the details. We can help you secure the best tickets, plan the perfect itinerary to avoid crowds, and combine your visit with other Shanghai highlights.
We are here to help you discover the very best of Shanghai.