Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower: Your Complete Guide to Tickets, Views & Must-Sees
Start your Shanghai adventure at the iconic Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower. This landmark sits right on the Huangpu River, offering stunning views of the historic Bund on one side and the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong on the other. For broader trip planning, check out our comprehensive shanghai travel guide.
What is the Shanghai Oriental Pearl Tower?
Type: City Landmark / Observation Tower / Cultural Exhibition Space
Best Time to Visit: Any season. Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) are most comfortable. For specific seasonal beauty, see our guide on shanghai autumn foliage.
Suggested Visit Duration: 3-4 hours (includes queuing time).
Opening Hours: 9:00 – 21:00 (last entry at 20:30).
Tickets for the Oriental Pearl Tower
Two-Sphere Ticket (263m & 259m observation decks): Adult ¥165-199 (~$23-28), Child (1-1.4m) ¥99 (~$14).
Three-Sphere Ticket (adds the 351m Space Capsule): Adult ¥299-399 (~$42-56), Child ¥149 (~$21).
Combo tickets often include a buffet at the revolving restaurant or a Huangpu River cruise.
Address: 1 Century Avenue, Pudong New Area (heart of Lujiazui).
A Symbol of Shanghai’s Rise
Construction of the Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower began in 1991. It opened in 1994 as a symbol of China’s reform and the development of Pudong. At 468 meters tall, it was Asia’s tallest tower at the time. Its unique design features 11 spheres strung together, resembling pearls rising from the greenery into the sky.
Must-See Decks and Experiences
Your visit starts at the tower base. High-speed elevators whisk you up to the different spheres of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower.
The 263-meter main observation level is your first stop. Its 360-degree glass walls provide the best panoramic view of Shanghai. You can see the old Bund buildings and the modern giants like Shanghai Tower.
Step down to the 259-meter transparent sightseeing corridor. This is a thrilling, ring-shaped glass walkway. You feel like you’re walking on air 260 meters above the ground. Photo tip: shoot along the seams in the glass to reduce glare for clearer pictures.
The 351-meter Space Capsule is the highest point. Only for Three-Sphere ticket holders. The view from this part of the Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower is unparalleled. The space-themed interior adds a fun touch.
Head down to the 90-meter outdoor sightseeing deck. This open-air platform lets you feel the breeze. It’s a fantastic spot for photos of the Bund’s skyline.
Don’t miss the 78-meter “Above Shanghai” multimedia show. This immersive ride uses 3D technology to envision Shanghai 70 years into the future. The visuals are stunning.
Back at ground level, visit the Shanghai History Museum. It’s included with your Oriental Pearl Tower ticket. Lifelike dioramas and artifacts show Shanghai’s 700-year evolution from a small town to a megacity.
Dining with a View
The 267-meter Revolving Restaurant is Asia’s highest. Enjoy a buffet here (requires separate ticket/combo). After your visit, continue exploring local flavors on a dedicated shanghai food tour. The restaurant slowly rotates, giving you a breathtaking 360-degree view as day turns to night.
Exploring the Lujiazui Area
The Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower is in the center of Lujiazui. Other major attractions are within walking distance.
The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is about 300 meters away. Its 155-meter underwater tunnel is one of the world’s longest.
The Pudong Art Museum is about 800 meters away. It hosts excellent international exhibitions. The building itself is architectural art, with a “Mirror Hall” that reflects the Bund.
Essential Visitor Tips
Getting there is easiest by metro. Take Line 2 or 14 to “Lujiazui” Station, Exit 2. A 5-7 minute walk brings you to the tower. Free luggage storage is available at the entrance.
Booking your Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower tickets online is a must. You need a real-name reservation. Use the official WeChat channel or platforms like Ctrip/Meituan. Pre-booking often gives discounts and saves you from long ticket lines.
Combo tickets with the revolving restaurant sometimes include fast-track entry. Wondering how many days in shanghai you need? A well-paced itinerary usually includes 3-4 days.
For hotels, Lujiazui has many luxury options like the Pudong Shangri-La. Staying near the Bund or People’s Square is also convenient, with a short metro ride across the river.
Planning Your Perfect Visit
Arrive around 3-4 PM. This timing lets you see the city in daylight, watch the sunset, and see the sparkling skyline after dark.
A classic route: pick up tickets -> visit the ground-floor history museum -> elevator to 263m -> walk down to the 259m glass corridor -> descend to 90m deck or 78m show -> (with Three-Sphere ticket) finish at the 351m Space Capsule.
Make a day of it. Explore the Bund in the morning. Cross the river to visit the Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower in the afternoon. This can be a highlight of any best of shanghai day tour. Enjoy dinner at the revolving restaurant or visit the art museum. End your night with a stroll along the Binjiang Promenade or a Huangpu River cruise. Seeing the glowing tower from the water is unforgettable.
Heads up: expect big crowds on weekends and holidays. Queues for the Oriental Pearl TV Tower can be 2-3 hours long. Book early, allow plenty of time, and always follow safety rules inside the tower. Now you’re ready to see Shanghai from its most famous icon.
