Oriental Pearl Tower
The Oriental Pearl Tower, a landmark of Shanghai and a symbol of modern China, is a 468-meter-tall TV and observation tower completed in 1994. Combining futuristic architecture with cultural symbolism, its 11 spherical observation decks and 3 columns evoke pearls cascading from the sky. Standing on the Huangpu River’s east bank in Pudong, it offers panoramic views of Shanghai’s skyline, blending historic Bund architecture with cutting-edge skyscrapers. Designated an AAAA-rated tourist attraction, it hosts museums, restaurants, and a revolving eatery, attracting over 5 million visitors annually.
Historical Overview
Construction began in 1991, inspired by Chinese poet Bai Juyi’s line, “Big pearls and jade droplets drip down a clear screen.” The tower’s design, led by architect Jiang Huanchen, aimed to merge traditional aesthetics with 20th-century engineering. It opened to the public in 1995, quickly becoming Shanghai’s most iconic structure. Key milestones include hosting the 2010 Shanghai Expo’s Urban Planet Pavilion and the 2018 Fortune Global Forum. In 2007, it was listed as a “Shanghai Cultural Relic Protection Unit,” solidifying its cultural significance.
Structural Layout
1. The tower comprises three main sections:Lower Podium (Base):Shanghai Urban History Development Exhibition Hall: Chronicles Shanghai’s evolution from a fishing village to a global metropolis through multimedia displays.
Retail & Dining: Souvenir shops and cafes.
2. Observation Decks (Middle & Upper Spheres):Transparent Observation Floor (259m): A glass-bottomed walkway offering a thrilling view of the city below.
Space City (350m): A futuristic museum with robotics and interactive exhibits.
267m Rotating Restaurant: A 360-degree dining experience with panoramic vistas.
3. Upper Spire (Antenna & Balls):Highest Observation Deck (351m): A sleek, minimalist space for aerial photography.
“Pearl of the Orient” Ball: The tower’s iconic red orb, housing a VR entertainment zone.
Major Attractions
Transparent Observation Floor (259m): Dare to walk on glass 1.5 meters above the ground, with the Huangpu River visible beneath your feet.
Shanghai History Museum (Base Level): Explore artifacts from the Opium Wars to the 1990s economic boom.
Space City (350m): Touch a simulated Mars rover and race against AI drones.
267m Revolving Restaurant: Savor Shanghainese cuisine while the cityscape rotates around you.
LED Light Show (Nightly): The tower transforms into a color-changing canvas, synchronized with music.
Suggested Itineraries
- Quick Visit (1–2 Hours):
Base → Elevator to 263m Observation Deck → 259m Transparent Floor → Base Souvenir Shop.
Highlights: Skyline views and the glass walkway.
- Classic Route (2–3 Hours):
Base → Shanghai History Museum → Elevator to 263m Deck → 259m Floor → 350m Space City → Base Dining.
Highlights: Historical context + interactive tech exhibits.
- Comprehensive Tour (4–5 Hours):
Base → History Museum → 263m Deck → 259m Floor → 350m Space City → 267m Revolving Restaurant (lunch/dinner) → 351m Highest Deck → LED Light Show (evening).
Highlights: Full immersion with dining and nighttime spectacle.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via the official website or WeChat mini-program (up to 7 days in advance).
On-Site: Tickets available at the base, but queues peak during holidays.
- Prices:
Standard Ticket (263m Observation Deck): ¥199 (adults), ¥99 (children 1–1.4m).
Combo Ticket (263m + 259m + Space City): ¥220 (adults), ¥110 (children).
Revolving Restaurant Package: ¥588+ per person (includes observation decks).
Free: Children under 1m, disabled visitors.
Transportation
By Subway: Line 2 to Lujiazui Station (Exit 1), 5-minute walk.
By Bus: Routes 81, 82, 85, 774, 795 to Lujiazui Hub.
By Taxi: Direct to “Dongfang Mingzhu Ta” (东方明珠塔).
Departure: Exit via the north plaza for the Bund or east plaza for Century Avenue.
Best Time & Tips
Peak Hours: Avoid 11 AM–3 PM; visit early (9 AM opening) or for sunset (5–7 PM).
Crowds: Weekends and national holidays are busiest; weekdays are quieter.
Weather: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer clear skies.
Essentials:
Wear comfortable shoes (climbing stairs between decks optional).
Bring a jacket (higher decks are windy).
Photography allowed (tripods prohibited).
Prohibited items: Outside food, drones, and large luggage.
Oriental Pearl Tower Scenic Spots Guide
FAQ
What unique experiences does the 263m Main Observation Deck offer?
Visitors enjoy 360° panoramic views of Shanghai through floor-to-ceiling windows, with interactive screens highlighting landmarks. The deck's transparent glass floor provides a thrilling "floating" sensation above the city.
What events are part of the "Oriental Pearl Bright Nights" campaign?
The 2025 edition featured AI-generated light shows, VR space experiences, and collaborations with Shanghai Museum for digital art exhibitions. Visitors could also enjoy rooftop yoga and jazz performances.
What highlights does the New Year's Eve light show offer?
The 10-minute show includes 3D projections of dragons, fireworks synchronized to classical music, and a countdown laser display. In 2025, it attracted 80,000 spectators.
What is the signature dish at Old Shanghai No.8 Restaurant?
The "Braised Pork Belly in Brown Sauce" uses a 1930s recipe, slow-cooked for 6 hours. The restaurant's "Bund View" private room requires a ¥5,000 minimum spend.
What unique souvenirs can be purchased?
The "Sugar Orb" shop sells candy shaped like the tower, while the Tower Time Boutique offers limited-edition watches with pearl motifs. The 0m-level "Round Element" store sells silk scarves with Art Deco patterns.
