Shanghai Tower Guide

The Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China, and it is also one of the most graceful. It was finished in 2015, rises to about 632 metres and has 128 floors above ground. It spirals gently as it climbs, and that twist is not only for looks, because it helps the building shed wind and lowers the forces on the structure. Next to the more boxy towers around it, this one looks sculpted rather than stacked.

How the design works

The tower is wrapped in a second glass skin that makes a series of tall sky gardens between the two layers. These are meant to work as indoor streets, and they also help to insulate the building. A very large weight near the top, known as a damper, swings to counter the sway in strong winds, which helps keep the building steady and comfortable. Even if you never see these features, they explain why the tower looks so smooth, and the building deserves a look as engineering and not only as a view.

The observation deck

The public observatory is on the 118th floor, at about 546 metres, and it is one of the highest indoor viewing decks in the world. The views stretch over the river, the old city and, on a clear day, far across the plain toward the sea and the Yangtze delta. The ride up is part of the fun, because the lifts are among the fastest in the world and take well under a minute. There are also displays, a cafe and a gift shop at the top, so it is easy to linger. On a clear day the Bund looks like a thin ribbon along the river, and you can pick out the bends of the water far to the north and south.

Booking and timing

Buy a timed ticket in advance, and see the official page for current prices and hours. Sunset is the most popular slot and pays off if the sky is clear, because you can see the city in daylight and watch the lights come on. Morning is calmer, but the haze can be heavier. Cloud and smog can hide the view, so confirm the weather before you go and keep your plans flexible.

Choosing between the towers

Many visitors wonder whether to pick this one, the Oriental Pearl Tower or the World Financial Center. The Shanghai Tower is the highest and gives the broadest view, with the other towers in the foreground. The Pearl is lower, more fun and best known as a shape. If you only want one, the Shanghai Tower is the strongest choice for the view, and the Pearl is best admired from outside.

Reaching the Pudong entrance

The tower stands in Lujiazui, a short walk from Lujiazui metro station on line 2. The entrance to the observation deck is in the base of the building, and signs are in English and Chinese. Bring your passport in case you need to confirm a booking, and allow time for a security look up.

Combining with nearby sights

The tower makes a solid evening plan when paired with a walk on the The Bund. Go up for sunset, then cross the river for the lights, or the other way round. A Huangpu River cruise adds a different view of the same skyline. For a calmer view of the old city, the roofs of the French Concession make a gentle contrast.

Alternative views and options to skip

You do not need the priciest ticket or any add-on, because the main deck is enough. Skip the busiest holiday evenings, when queues are long, and do not go up on a day of thick cloud. If you want a cheaper view, a rooftop bar or a quiet stroll along the river can give a different but lovely picture of the skyline.