Oriental Pearl Tower
Image source: Wikimedia Commons; license credits as shown.
Overview
The Oriental Pearl Tower is a landmark high tower located on the banks of the Huangpu River in Lujiazui, Pudong, Shanghai, and is a national 5A-level tourist attraction. Standing at 468 meters tall, it is famous for its futuristic design, which features a series of spheres of varying sizes connected by three columns and three diagonal braces. Visitors can ascend multiple observation decks and a fully transparent skywalk to overlook the Bund's collection of international architecture and the modern skyline on both sides of the river. The tower combines broadcasting and television transmission, a city history museum, a revolving restaurant, entertainment facilities, and shopping spaces, making it one of the must-visit classic attractions in Shanghai. The nighttime light show illuminates the entire tower, making it a popular backdrop for capturing the night views of Shanghai.
Getting There
The most convenient way to reach the Oriental Pearl Tower is to take Shanghai Metro Line 2 to 'Lujiazui Station', and then walk about 5 to 10 minutes from Exit 1 to the tower plaza. Alternatively, you can take several bus routes including 81, 82, 85, 583, 774, 789, 791, and 961 to get off at stops near Lujiazui or the Oriental Pearl. You can also walk through the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel or take a ferry across the Huangpu River from the Bund and then walk to the core area of Lujiazui.
Highlights
The most distinctive feature of the Oriental Pearl Tower is its eleven spheres of varying sizes, connected by three columns and three diagonal braces, creating a highly recognizable futuristic appearance. The total height of the tower is approximately 468 meters, which was once the tallest building in mainland China and remains one of the most iconic vertical landmarks in Shanghai's skyline. The tower integrates sightseeing, dining, broadcasting and television transmission, a museum, entertainment facilities, and commercial spaces, making it suitable for families, couples, and group travelers to spend the whole day. The fully transparent skywalk at 259 meters is famous for its 'sky walk' experience, allowing visitors to look down at the Huangpu River and the street scenes of Lujiazui through a glass floor. The Shanghai City History Development Museum inside the tower presents the old Shanghai style through scene restoration and multimedia displays, combining sightseeing with cultural history.
What to See
1. 259-meter fully transparent skywalk: Featuring a glass floor design, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree view of both sides of the Huangpu River while experiencing the thrill of walking in the air, making it one of the most popular photo spots in the tower. 2. 263-meter main observation deck: This is the core floor for enjoying panoramic views of Shanghai, where you can see the three major skyscrapers of Lujiazui and the Bund's collection of international architecture, ideal for daytime sightseeing and sunset photography. 3. 351-meter space capsule observation deck: Located at the top of the tower, this observation deck offers an even broader view and is a must-visit for travelers seeking the highest vantage point and a unique 'space capsule' atmosphere. 4. Shanghai City History Development Museum: Located at the base and lower levels of the tower, it uses wax figures, scene restoration, and multimedia interactive displays to showcase the transformation of Shanghai from a fishing village to an international metropolis, providing rich content for a deeper understanding of Shanghai. 5. Sky revolving restaurant: Located in the upper sphere, it offers a buffet and circular views, allowing diners to enjoy different angles of the cityscape while the restaurant slowly rotates, making it suitable for anniversaries and romantic dinners. 6. Nighttime light show and appearance: After nightfall, the tower is illuminated with 3D lights, complemented by the reflections of the surrounding skyscrapers and the Huangpu River, creating a classic night view of Shanghai, perfect for riverside walks and photography.
Hours & Admission
The Oriental Pearl Tower is open year-round, with general operating hours from 08:00 to 21:30 daily. The last entry time is usually about one hour before closing, and actual hours may vary slightly depending on the season and special events, so it is recommended to check official announcements or ticketing platform information before visiting. Tickets are available in various package combinations, commonly including access to the 263-meter main observation deck, 259-meter fully transparent skywalk, 351-meter space capsule, and the Shanghai City History Development Museum, with prices varying by floor and package. Some tickets allow for direct entry using ID or electronic certificates without waiting in line, and it is advisable to book tickets online in advance to secure a time slot and avoid crowds. Children, students, and seniors usually enjoy discounted ticket prices, but valid identification must be presented, and actual policies are subject to on-site and official announcements.
Address
1 Century Avenue, Lujiazui, Pudong New District, Shanghai
Travel Tips
The recommended time to visit the Oriental Pearl Tower is from evening to night. You can first ascend the tower before sunset to enjoy the daytime scenery and sunset, and then experience the dazzling night view of Shanghai, known as the 'City that Never Sleeps', after the lights come on. There tends to be more foot traffic during holidays and weekends, so it is advisable to book your time slot online in advance and arrive early to queue, as peak times may require longer waiting for the elevator. The observation decks inside the tower are well air-conditioned and breezy, so it is recommended to bring a light jacket. If you want to experience the glass skywalk or high-altitude entertainment facilities, wearing comfortable and secure shoes is advisable. The surrounding Lujiazui area is filled with skyscrapers, so it is recommended to allocate half a day to a full day to visit the Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, Jin Mao Tower, and IFC Mall, and consider arranging a Huangpu River night cruise. If you want to capture a classic panoramic view of the Oriental Pearl Tower, you can head to the riverside walkway at the Bund or the viewing platform in the Puxi direction for a more complete perspective, which is suitable for long exposure photography.
Nearby Dining
The sky revolving restaurant inside the Oriental Pearl Tower offers a buffet and a la carte service, allowing diners to enjoy a 360-degree view of the city while dining, making it a popular choice for many travelers celebrating holidays and anniversaries. There are several casual dining, coffee, and dessert shops on the base and shopping levels of the tower, providing convenient options for a quick rest or light meal before or after visiting the tower. The surrounding Lujiazui business district offers a rich variety of dining options, including Chinese cuisine, international food, and cafes in large malls such as IFC Mall, Super Brand Mall, World Financial Center, and Shanghai Tower, allowing for flexible choices based on budget and taste. If you want to dine with a view of the Huangpu River, consider booking a dinner cruise on the river or a restaurant with a view along the Bund, complementing the tower experience with different perspectives.
FAQ
Q: How tall is the Oriental Pearl Tower? A: The total height of the Oriental Pearl Tower is approximately 468 meters, making it one of the most representative towers in Shanghai. The tower is composed of multiple spheres and columns and was once the tallest building in mainland China, currently ranking among the top towers in the world. From the upper observation decks, you can overlook the entire Lujiazui and Huangpu River scenery. Q: What is the most convenient way to get to the Oriental Pearl Tower? A: The most convenient way to reach the Oriental Pearl Tower is to take Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station, and then walk about 5 to 10 minutes from Exit 1. If taking the bus, you can choose routes 81, 82, 85, 583, 774, 789, 791, and 961 to get off at stops near the tower area, or walk through the sightseeing tunnel from the Bund or take a ferry across the Huangpu River and then walk to the tower. Q: What are the must-visit observation decks at the Oriental Pearl Tower? A: The must-visit observation decks at the Oriental Pearl Tower include the 259-meter fully transparent skywalk, the 263-meter main observation deck, and the 351-meter space capsule observation deck. The glass skywalk is famous for its 'sky walk' experience, the main observation deck is the golden height for enjoying panoramic views of Shanghai, and the space capsule offers a higher perspective and a unique space-themed atmosphere. It is recommended to choose a package that includes multiple floors for a complete experience. Q: Do I need to make a reservation or buy tickets in advance to visit the Oriental Pearl Tower? A: It is recommended to make an online reservation or purchase tickets in advance for visiting the Oriental Pearl Tower, especially on weekends, holidays, and during peak travel seasons, to reduce waiting time on-site. Most ticketing platforms offer electronic tickets and real-name entry, allowing entry directly with an ID or certificate at the ticket machine. Some packages can also include access to the city history museum or high-altitude entertainment projects, providing more flexible options. Q: Is the Oriental Pearl Tower suitable for visiting with children or elderly companions? A: The Oriental Pearl Tower has comprehensive accessibility features and elevator configurations, along with multiple indoor observation spaces and a museum, making it very suitable for family visits and bringing elderly companions. However, some experiences, such as the 259-meter glass skywalk and high-altitude VR roller coaster, may be more stressful for those with a fear of heights or mobility issues, so it is advisable to choose participation based on the condition of the companions and pay attention to safety tips from staff.
