In this guide, we’ll cover how to visit Shanghai Tower, including the best times to go, what to see, and how to maximize your experience at one of the world’s tallest skyscrapers.
The Shanghai Tower is the crown jewel of Shanghai’s skyline and a must-see for any tourist visiting this vibrant city. Standing at 632 meters (2,073 feet), it is the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world. The tower not only offers breathtaking views but also a variety of attractions for visitors to enjoy. If you’re planning to visit, this complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from how to get there to where to eat nearby.
1. Shanghai Tower Facts and Figures
Before diving into the details of how to visit Shanghai Tower, it’s helpful to understand why this building is so iconic. The tower is a marvel of modern architecture and engineering, boasting 128 floors and some of the fastest elevators in the world, reaching speeds of 20.5 meters per second.
- Height: 632 meters (2,073 feet)
- Floors: 128 floors above ground, 5 below
- Observation Deck: Located on the 118th floor, offering panoramic views of the city
- Elevator speed: The elevators travel at 20.5 meters per second, making them among the fastest in the world.
These impressive facts and figures make the tower an unmissable attraction, especially for architecture enthusiasts.
2. How to Get to Shanghai Tower
One of the most convenient things about how to visit Shanghai Tower is its location in the Pudong District, right in the heart of the city. There are several easy ways to get there:
- Metro: The Shanghai Metro is the easiest way to reach Shanghai Tower. Take Line 2 or Line 14 to Lujiazui Station, which is just a 10-minute walk from the tower.
- Taxi: Taxis are also a convenient option, especially if you’re staying in the city center. Expect a 20-30 minute ride from most downtown areas, depending on traffic.
- Walking: If you’re staying in a nearby hotel, such as the Jin Mao Tower or the Oriental Pearl Tower, you can easily walk to Shanghai Tower.
Once you arrive, you’ll find clear signs leading you to the entrance. The tower is hard to miss—just look up!
3. Shanghai Tower Opening Hours and Admission Fee
Knowing the opening hours and admission fees is essential when planning how to visit Shanghai Tower. Here are the key details:
- Opening hours: The Shanghai Tower is open daily from 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM. However, it’s a good idea to visit earlier in the day or late in the evening to avoid long lines.
- Admission fee: Tickets to the Shanghai Tower observation deck cost approximately 180 RMB for adults. Discounted tickets are available for children, students, and seniors.
You can purchase tickets at the entrance, but it’s highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. You can also book online through official websites or third-party travel platforms.
4. Best Time to Visit Shanghai Tower
Timing is crucial when planning how to visit Shanghai Tower, as it can greatly impact your experience. The best time to visit Shanghai Tower depends on whether you want to enjoy daylight views, sunset, or the city’s illuminated skyline.
- Daytime: If you visit during the day, you’ll get clear views of the Pudong District, the Huangpu River, and the sprawling city below. This is also the best time to appreciate the architectural details of the tower itself.
- Sunset: Many tourists prefer to visit just before sunset. This way, you can enjoy both daylight and night views, capturing the city as it transitions from day to night.
- Night: The night view from Shanghai Tower is breathtaking. The entire city is lit up, and you can see famous landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Jin Mao Tower glowing in the distance.
For the best experience, aim to visit on a clear day or night. Shanghai can be hazy, so keep an eye on the weather forecast to ensure you get the best views.
5. Best Views from the Shanghai Tower Observation Deck
The Shanghai Tower Observation Deck on the 118th floor is the highlight of your visit. From here, you’ll get 360-degree panoramic views of the city. On a clear day, you can see as far as Hangzhou Bay. The views at night are equally spectacular, with the city lights illuminating the skyline.
What makes the experience even more thrilling is the glass floor in some sections of the deck. Walking on the glass floor while looking down at the city below is a must-do for adventurous visitors. The observation deck is one of the highest in the world, making it an unforgettable experience.
For photography lovers, there are plenty of spots to capture the best views from Shanghai Tower observation deck. Be sure to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the entire cityscape.
6. Things to Do at Shanghai Tower
In addition to the observation deck, there are several other attractions and activities inside the tower:
- Shanghai Tower Skywalk: For thrill-seekers, the Shanghai Tower skywalk is an exhilarating experience. You can walk around the outside of the tower at dizzying heights while securely harnessed. It’s a unique way to enjoy the views.
- Shanghai Tower Exhibition Center: Located on the lower floors, the exhibition center showcases the history and engineering behind the tower’s construction. It’s a great place to learn more about this architectural wonder.
- Restaurants and Cafes: After enjoying the views, you can relax at one of the cafes or restaurants in the tower. For fine dining, the 120th floor restaurant offers a luxury dining experience with stunning views of the city.
7. Shanghai Tower vs Oriental Pearl Tower and Jin Mao Tower
Shanghai is home to several iconic skyscrapers, but how to visit Shanghai Tower differs from visiting the Oriental Pearl Tower or Jin Mao Tower. Here’s how they compare:
- Shanghai Tower vs Oriental Pearl Tower: The Oriental Pearl Tower is shorter but has a distinctive futuristic design. It also features its own observation decks and a revolving restaurant. While the views are great, Shanghai Tower offers a more modern and luxurious experience.
- Shanghai Tower vs Jin Mao Tower: The Jin Mao Tower is another nearby skyscraper with an observation deck. While it’s shorter than Shanghai Tower, it’s still impressive. The key difference is that Shanghai Tower’s deck is higher and offers better panoramic views.
For visitors who want to compare views, consider visiting all three towers. Each offers a unique perspective of the city.
8. How to Book Tickets for Shanghai Tower
Booking tickets in advance is the best way to avoid long lines and secure your preferred time slot. Here are your options:
- Online: You can book tickets through the official Shanghai Tower website or third-party travel websites such as Trip.com. Booking online is convenient and often allows you to skip the lines.
- At the Tower: If you prefer to purchase tickets in person, ticket counters are available at the base of the tower. However, this may require waiting in line, especially during busy times.
Be sure to book early if you plan to visit at sunset or on weekends, as tickets sell out quickly.
9. Where to Stay Near Shanghai Tower
If you want to stay close to Shanghai Tower, there are several hotels near Shanghai Tower that offer great accommodation options:
- Grand Hyatt Shanghai: Located in the Jin Mao Tower, this hotel offers luxury accommodations with easy access to Shanghai Tower.
- The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong: Another luxury option, this hotel is located just a short walk from Shanghai Tower and offers stunning views of the river.
- IFC Residence: For a more home-like stay, IFC Residence offers serviced apartments with all the amenities you need.
Staying nearby allows you to explore not only Shanghai Tower but also other attractions in the Pudong area.
10. Where to Eat Near Shanghai Tower
After your visit, you’ll likely want to grab a bite to eat. Fortunately, there are several restaurants near Shanghai Tower:
- Din Tai Fung: Located in the nearby Shanghai World Financial Center, this famous Taiwanese chain is known for its delicious dumplings.
- Mercato: This Italian restaurant offers stunning views of the Bund and is just a short walk from Shanghai Tower.
- Element Fresh: If you’re looking for healthy, fresh food, Element Fresh is a great option located nearby.
Whether you’re in the mood for international cuisine or local delicacies, you’ll find plenty of dining options within walking distance.
Visiting the Shanghai Tower is an unforgettable experience that provides unparalleled views of one of the world’s most dynamic cities. From the sky-high observation deck to the thrilling Shanghai Tower skywalk, there’s something for every type of traveler.
By following this complete guide on how to visit Shanghai Tower, you’ll know exactly what to expect, when to go, and how to make the most of your visit. With spectacular views, exciting attractions, and convenient nearby accommodations, Shanghai Tower is truly a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Shanghai.
