Oriental Pearl Tower Shanghai — Observation Decks, History & Travel Guide 2025
- Arron Goh
- Aug 17
- 2 min read
Why Visit the Oriental Pearl Tower?
The Oriental Pearl Tower (东方明珠塔) is Shanghai’s most iconic landmark and one of the first skyscrapers built in Pudong. Its futuristic design, with three large spheres and smaller globes stacked like pearls, makes it instantly recognizable.
We haven't had a chance to visit the observation deck yet, but you should definitely try it out and leave me a feedback on the comments below!
Essential Visitor Info
📍 Address: 1 Century Avenue, Pudong, Shanghai (上海市浦东新区世纪大道1号)
🚇 Nearest Metro: Lujiazui Station (陆家嘴站, Line 2) — just outside Exit 1
🕒 Opening Hours: 8:30am – 9:30pm (last entry 9:00pm)
🎟️ Tickets: Prices vary depending on observation levels — around RMB 160–220 for full access
💡 Book Online: https://www.trip.com/t/0eIPsdeR5R2
What to See & Do
🌆 Observation Decks:
351m Space Capsule — the highest observation level.
263m Main Observation Deck — the classic viewing floor.
259m Glass Skywalk — transparent floor for thrill-seekers.
🍴 Revolving Restaurant (267m): Offers buffet dining with panoramic city views.
🏛️ Shanghai History Museum (Ground Floor): Small museum showcasing the city’s development.
Fun Facts
Completed in 1994, the Oriental Pearl Tower was once the tallest building in China.
Its unique shape is said to represent pearls falling on a jade plate.
Together with the Three Pieces (三件套) — Shanghai Tower, Jin Mao, and Bottle Opener — it forms the city’s most famous skyline cluster.
Tips from Our Visit
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for golden hour, then stay for the night lights.
Tickets: Buy in advance to avoid long queues.
Photography: The glass skywalk is amazing for photos, but gets crowded quickly.
If you're up for something free instead, try this scenic spot nearby!
Nearby Attractions
Lujiazui Financial District: Home of the Three Pieces skyscrapers.
Super Brand Mall (正大广场): Perfect for food and shopping.
The Bund (外滩): Directly across the river for the classic postcard shot of the Pearl Tower.
📍 See how we included the Oriental Pearl Tower in our Hangzhou + Suzhou + Shanghai 8D7N Itinerary.