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The most recommended activities at the Oriental Pearl TV Tower include visiting the observation deck for panoramic views of Shanghai, exploring the rotating restaurant, and taking a trip to the Shanghai History Museum located at the base of the tower. You can also enjoy a glass-floor experience and take stunning photographs of the city skyline.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower is one of Shanghai's iconic cultural landscapes. Located in Lujiazui, Pudong New Area, it is the tallest tower in Asia and the third tallest in the world with its absolute height of 468 meters.
The tower houses a space capsule, a revolving restaurant, the Shanghai City History Development Exhibition Hall and other landscapes and facilities. It is the perfect choice for enjoying the night view and was listed as one of Shanghai's top ten new landscapes in 1995.
To understand Shanghai, start from the Oriental Pearl Tower. This one-stop experience gives visitors a comprehensive understanding of the past, present and future.
The subtropical monsoon climate makes travel suitable all year round.
1-3 hours
The sightseeing cruise package is 260 yuan per person. Please check the official website for specific packages.
8:00-21:30
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower, completed in 1994, is one of the most iconic landmarks of Shanghai. It stands at 468 meters tall and was once the tallest structure in China. It symbolizes Shanghai's rapid modernization and has become a key cultural and historical symbol of the city.
The tower is located in the Pudong district of Shanghai, near the Huangpu River. It is easily accessible via metro Line 2 (Lujiazui Station), or you can take a taxi or bus to the area. Walking from nearby attractions like the Bund takes around 20 minutes.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower is open daily from 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds, and for the best views, visit on clear days, especially at sunset for stunning cityscapes.
Tickets to the observation deck cost around 160 RMB for adults. Tickets for the glass floor experience or other areas may cost additional fees. You can purchase tickets on-site or online through the official website or third-party platforms like Klook.
While advance booking is not mandatory, it is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends. Booking at least 1-2 days in advance ensures you avoid long lines.
To fully explore the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, you will need around 2-3 hours. This includes visiting the observation deck, dining at the restaurant, and exploring the Shanghai History Museum at the base.
The must-see highlights include the observation deck for breathtaking views, the glass floor for a unique experience, the rotating restaurant, and the Shanghai History Museum at the base of the tower. The tower's architecture itself is also worth admiring.
Guided tours are available, and audio guides are provided in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, and French. Audio guides are available for rent at the tower.
The best viewpoints are from the observation deck, especially the open-air viewing area. The glass-floor experience offers another unique perspective for photography, as well as the panoramic views from the rotating restaurant.
Start by taking the elevator to the observation deck to enjoy the views. Then, visit the glass floor and explore the history museum located at the tower’s base. If you're interested in dining, reserve a table at the rotating restaurant for a unique experience.
The tower is beautifully lit up at night, and night visits provide a stunning view of Shanghai's skyline. Special light shows and events are sometimes held, particularly during festivals or public holidays. It's recommended to check the official website for any special events.
The tower can get crowded during weekends, holidays, and peak tourist seasons. For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning or on weekdays, especially Tuesday to Thursday.
The tower has rest areas, clean toilets, and shops selling souvenirs and snacks. There is a café and the rotating restaurant where visitors can enjoy food while taking in the views.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower is accessible to elderly visitors, children, and those with disabilities. There are elevators for easy access to the observation deck, and wheelchair rentals are available at the entrance.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly accepted, along with credit cards. Cash is also accepted but is less common at the tower's shops and restaurants.
Inside the tower, there is a rotating restaurant offering a buffet with views of Shanghai. Nearby, you can find many restaurants along the Huangpu River, serving both local and international cuisine.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the rotating restaurant and other nearby eateries. Halal food options can be found at some restaurants in the area catering to international tourists.
There are several hotels near the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, including the Grand Hyatt Shanghai and the Jin Jiang Tower, both offering luxury accommodations with views of the tower and surrounding area.
Nearby attractions include the Bund, Yu Garden, and the Shanghai Museum. You can also visit the Lujiazui area for shopping malls and the Shanghai World Financial Center, all of which can be easily visited on a day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops inside the tower selling items such as postcards, keychains, local art, and replicas of the tower itself. Typical souvenirs also include Shanghai-themed products like tea, silk, and decorative items.
The best transportation options are to take the metro (Line 2), which is conveniently located nearby at Lujiazui Station. Taxis and buses are also readily available for further exploration of Shanghai.
