When travelling in China, if you go to Shanghai, then the Shanghai Oriental Pearl Radio and Television Tower is a must-see!
1. Historical background
The Oriental Pearl Radio and Television Tower (‘Oriental Pearl’) is an iconic building in Shanghai and the first key project in the development of Pudong New Area after China’s reform and opening up. Its construction began on 30 July 1991, and it was officially opened on 1 October 1994, and in May 1995 it began transmitting radio and television signals. As the sixth tallest tower in Asia and the ninth tallest in the world (total height of 468 metres), it is not only a landmark in Shanghai, but also a globally important tourist attraction. in 2007, the Oriental Pearl Tower was named a National 5A Tourist Attraction by the China National Tourism Administration and has won numerous architectural and design awards, such as the Zhan Tianyou Prize for Civil Engineering in China. on 29 September 2024 the Oriental Pearl Tower welcomes its 100 millionth visitor! — Peter Bauer from Germany, becoming one of the most popular observation towers in the world.
2. Geographic location
The Oriental Pearl Tower is located at No.1 Century Avenue, Lujiazui, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, adjacent to the Huangpu River, and across the river from the Bund’s ‘Expo Complex of Architecture of All Nations’. It is backed by the Lujiazui financial district of skyscrapers (such as the Shanghai Centre Building, the World Financial Centre), and Nanpu Bridge, Yangpu Bridge to form a ‘double-dragon playing with the pearl’ landscape. The scenic spot is surrounded by convenient traffic, and is only a 5-minute walk from Metro Line 2 Lujiazui Station.
3. Mode of transport
- Metro:
Take Metro Line 2 to ‘Lujiazui Station’ and take Exit 1 or 2 for about 5 minutes’ walk. - Bus:
81, 82, 85, 583 and other bus lines directly to the ‘Lujiazui Ring Road Ming Shang Road Station’. - Drive/Taxi:
Navigate to ‘Oriental Pearl Radio and TV Tower’, there is a car park nearby (charges about 10-25 RMB/hour). It may be congested during peak hours, so avoid the morning and evening peaks. - Airport/Train Station:
Take Metro Line 2 directly from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport or Pudong International Airport; you can transfer to Metro Line 2 at Shanghai Railway Station and Shanghai South Railway Station.
4. Attractions (highlights)
① Observation Levels and Aerial Experiences
- 263 metre main observation level:
Offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Shanghai, including the Bund, Huangpu River and Pudong skyline. - 259m Transparent Sightseeing Corridor:
The world’s first suspended transparent glass walkway, with a hundred metres of height beneath your feet, suitable for taking thrilling photos. - 351m Space Capsule:
The highest sightseeing spot in Shanghai, featuring VR interactive experience and simulated space walk.
② Featured Facilities
- 267m Revolving Restaurant:
Asia’s highest revolving restaurant, providing Chinese and Western buffet, rotating once every 2 hours, you can enjoy the day and night view of the city while dining. - 78-metre ‘More Shanghai’ circular multimedia show:
Through the 240° ring screen, moving walkway and AR technology, it shows the vision of Shanghai’s urban development in the next 70 years, the whole journey lasts about 25-40 minutes. - Shanghai Urban History and Development Exhibition Centre:
Located in the tower, it uses live models, wax figures and multimedia to show the transformation of Shanghai from an ancient fishing village to a modern metropolis, and includes thematic exhibition areas such as ‘City Hall Style’ and ‘Ten Miles of Ocean Front’.
③ Other Highlights
- Light Show:
Every night from 19:00 to 23:00, the tower can change more than 1,000 colours, the best viewing point for the Bund or Huangpu River cruise. - Pu River Cruise:
Departing from the pier under the tower, the 45-minute cruise offers a full view of both sides of the river at night. - Souvenir Shops:
Each sightseeing level offers more than 1,000 special cultural and creative products, such as miniature tower models and Shanghai-themed postcards.
5. Summary of Attractions
Why is it worth visiting?
- World-class landmark:
As Asia’s tallest tower (1994-2007), its unique ‘Pearl on a Jade Plate’ design symbolises the fusion of oriental aesthetics and modern technology. - Multi-functional Experience:
Combining sightseeing, catering, cultural exhibition and entertainment, it is suitable for families, couples, photography enthusiasts and other types of tourists. - History meets modernity:
Learn about Shanghai’s century-old history through the exhibition hall, and then climb up to feel the future technology, forming a complete city cognition.
Practical Advice
- Tickets and Time:
Base ticket RMB 160 (including 263 metres sightseeing floor), package ticket RMB 199-399 (including Transparent Gallery, Exhibition Hall, etc.). Opening hours: 09:00-21:00 (admission stops at 20:00). - Best Time:
Weekday evening (17:00-19:00) is less crowded and you can enjoy the sunset and night view at the same time; avoid National Day and weekend peaks. - Note:
Purchase tickets online in advance (official website or travel platform); wear non-slip shoes; meals in the tower are expensive, so bring your own snacks.
Conclusion.
The Oriental Pearl Tower is not only a symbol of Shanghai, but also a ‘three-dimensional city museum’ connecting the past and the future. Whether it’s challenging your heartbeat on the transparent glass or enjoying a dinner in the clouds at the revolving restaurant, this place offers visitors a unique perspective of Shanghai’s vitality and glamour.
For more China Travel Guide content, please visit our website.
