The Pearl Through Time: A Deep Dive into Shanghai's Oriental Pearl Tower

The Oriental Pearl Tower, a landmark of Shanghai, is located in the Lujiazui Financial District. Known for its iconic spherical design and panoramic views of the Huangpu River, it is a must-visit attraction for tourists.

Completed in 1994 and standing at 468 meters, the Oriental Pearl Tower was once the tallest structure in Asia. Its design, inspired by the Tang Dynasty poem "Pearls falling onto a jade plate," features 11 spherical structures symbolizing the harmony of modernity and tradition.

Height & Structure:
The tower stands 468 meters tall, supported by three 9-meter-diameter pillars and featuring 11 spheres, with three main spheres serving as observation decks.

Iconic Design:

• 259m Fully Transparent Suspended Observation Deck: The world’s first 360-degree glass walkway, offering a breathtaking view of the bustling Lujiazui streets below.
• 351m Space Capsule: Shanghai’s highest observation deck, featuring an immersive space-themed experience.
• 267m Revolving Restaurant: Completes a full rotation every two hours, allowing diners to enjoy panoramic views of the Huangpu River at night.

1. High-Altitude Extreme Challenges

• 259m Transparent Skywalk: Dare to walk the "Skywalk" and capture stunning gravity-defying photos.
• 95m VR Roller Coaster: A thrilling mix of virtual reality and real free-fall sensations, guaranteed to spike your adrenaline.

2. Cultural & Technological Experiences

• Shanghai History Museum: Wax figures and immersive scenes bring Shanghai’s transformation from a fishing village to a global metropolis to life.
• 78m Panoramic Multimedia Show: A naked-eye 3D experience showcasing Shanghai’s next 70 years.

3. Dining & Night Views

• Revolving Restaurant Buffet: Enjoy Southeast Asian, Japanese, and Western cuisine with breathtaking views of the Huangpu River. Dinner set: ¥318/person.
• Coca-Cola Themed Restaurant: Interactive installations and a global menu, with an average cost of ¥80–¥150 per person.

✅ Take the elevator directly to the second sphere and step into the 263m Main Observation Deck , offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Shanghai.

✅ After exploring, walk down the stairs to reach the 259m Fully Transparent Suspended Observation Deck . This open-air deck provides stunning views—perfect for photos! On-site photographers offer professional shots for ¥20 per digital+printed copy. Be mindful of strong winds in summer and bring an extra layer in colder months.

✅ Take the elevator down to the 98m Entertainment Sphere , featuring arcade-style games (additional fees apply).

✅ Continue taking the elevator down to 78m . Here, staff will ask if you’d like to watch the panoramic 3D multimedia show —don’t miss it! If you skip it, the elevator will take you straight to the ground floor.

✅ After the 3D show, take the elevator to the Shanghai History Museum on the first floor , showcasing the city's transformation. Entry requires an ID or temporary ID.

⚠️ Two areas are often overlooked—don’t miss them!
-78m Panoramic 3D Multimedia Show – Be sure to step off the elevator and watch it! Many visitors skip it and go straight to the ground floor.
-Shanghai History Museum (1st Floor) – A hidden gem that many people miss.

-Address：浦东新区世纪大道1号 No. 1 Century Avenue, Pudong New Area

- Transportation：

Ferry Lujin Line (The Bund - Lujiazui), experience the ferry on the Pujiang River.

Metro: Line 2 to Lujiazui Station (Exit 3).

Bus: Routes 81, 82, 985 to Lujiazui Ring Road Fenghe Road Station.

Driving: Parking available (¥20/hour).

Opening Hours:
Daily 09:00–21:30 (Last entry at 21:00).

Ticket Prices (Latest for 2025):

• Three-Sphere Combo Ticket (Includes Space Capsule): ¥220/adult
• Two-Sphere Combo Ticket (Main Observation Deck + Transparent Skywalk): ¥199/adult
• Revolving Restaurant Package: Dinner + Two-Sphere Combo Ticket ¥318/person

Discounts:

• Free entry for children under 1 meter tall
• 40% off for seniors aged 70 and above

Located 267 meters above ground within the Oriental Pearl Tower, this revolving restaurant completes a full rotation every two hours, offering panoramic city views. 

Situated on the 53rd floor of The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong, this Michelin-starred restaurant specializes in authentic Cantonese cuisine. Guests can enjoy exquisite dishes while taking in panoramic views of the Huangpu River and the Pudong skyline. 

1. Visit during sunset for both day and night views. 

2. The glass skywalk requires shoe covers; not recommended for those with acrophobia.

3. Book tickets online to avoid queues, especially on holidays. 

4. The riverside promenade offers great photos with the Lujiazui skyline.

The Oriental Pearl Tower isn’t just a landmark—it’s Shanghai’s soul in steel and glass. Let the Huangpu River breeze whisper tales of this city as you toast to its skyline!