Oriental Pearl Tower: Complete Visitor's Guide

The Oriental Pearl Tower, an iconic symbol of Shanghai's skyline, stands as one of the most recognizable landmarks in Pudong's Lujiazui Financial District. This architectural marvel offers breathtaking views of the city from multiple observation decks.

Historical Background

Built between 1991 and 1994, the Oriental Pearl Tower was designed by the East China Architectural Design Institute. The tower's unique design was inspired by a Tang Dynasty poem about pearls falling onto a jade plate, resulting in its distinctive appearance with 11 spheres of varying sizes.

The tower serves both as a broadcasting center and a tourist attraction, marking the beginning of Pudong's transformation into a modern financial district.

Architectural Features

Innovative Design

• Height: 468 meters
• 11 spheres of different sizes
• Unique space-frame structure with diagonal supports
• Advanced earthquake resistance capabilities
• Sleek silver and pink exterior that illuminates at night

Structural Excellence

The tower features a groundbreaking design with three slanted supports and seven vertical pillars, creating exceptional stability. This innovative structure allows the building to withstand strong winds and seismic activities while maintaining its distinctive aesthetic appeal.

Observation Levels Guide

Space Module (351m)

• Highest accessible point
• Available only with three-sphere ticket
• Unique space capsule experience
• Offers the most expansive views of Shanghai

Main Observation Sphere (263m)

• 360-degree panoramic views
• Available with both two-sphere and three-sphere tickets
• Transfer point between upper and lower levels
• Prime spot for cityscape photography

Outdoor Glass Skywalk (259m) ⭐⭐⭐

• World's only 360-degree transparent observation corridor
• Perfect for photography through ceiling gaps
• Stunning views of the Bund and Huangpu River
• Ideal for sunset and night photography

Lower Observation Areas

• 90m Outdoor Observation Deck - Close-up views of the Bund
• 78m Multimedia Experience - Shanghai Story Exhibition
• Ground Floor - Shanghai History Museum and Multimedia Show

Shanghai History Museum

Located at the tower's base, this 10,000-square-meter museum chronicles Shanghai's transformation from a fishing village to a global metropolis. The museum features:

• Seven themed exhibition areas
• Life-sized dioramas of old Shanghai
• Historical artifacts and interactive displays
• Multimedia presentations about the city's development
• Authentic recreations of traditional Shanghai streets

Entertainment Options

Revolving Restaurant (267m)

• 360-degree rotating dining experience
• International buffet featuring Asian and Western cuisine
• Complete rotation every 2 hours
• Spectacular night views of the city

Coca-Cola Happy Restaurant (18m)

• Interactive themed dining experience
• Diverse menu featuring Chinese, Japanese, and Western dishes
• Family-friendly atmosphere with entertainment features
• Unique Coca-Cola themed decorations and activities

VR Roller Coaster (95m)

• China's first indoor VR roller coaster
• Virtual flight experience over Shanghai
• Immersive city exploration
• Regular theme updates for repeat visitors

"Future Shanghai" Multimedia Show (78m)

• 25-40 minute immersive experience
• 240-degree panoramic screens
• Interactive digital installations
• Vision of Shanghai 70 years into the future

Visiting Routes

Recommended Two-Sphere Route

1. Start at 263m Main Observation Level
2. Descend to 259m Glass Skywalk
3. Visit 90m Outdoor Deck
4. Experience 78m Multimedia Show
5. Explore Ground Floor Exhibitions

Admission & Tickets

Ticket Options

• Two-sphere ticket: ¥199
• Three-sphere ticket: ¥220
• Special Offers:
  • Free entry for children under 1m
  • Half-price for children 1m-1.4m
  • Buy-one-get-one-free for November birthdays

Dining Packages

• Two-sphere + Happy Restaurant (18m): ¥258/adult, ¥129/child
• Two-sphere + Revolving Restaurant (267m): ¥368/adult, ¥184/child

Opening Hours

• Daily: 9:00-21:00
• Last entry: 20:00
• Recommended arrival: 16:00-17:00 for sunset views

Transportation

Metro Access

• Line 2 or Line 14 to Lujiazui Station
• Exit 2

Parking Options

• Underground Parking at Fenghe Road: ¥15/hour
• Gate 8 Underground Parking: Free
• Old Shanghai No.8 Restaurant Parking: Free

Essential Tips

1. Best Visiting Time

   • Arrive 4-5 PM for sunset views
   • Stay for night views after 5:30 PM
   • Average visit duration: 2 hours

2. Photography Opportunities

   • Entrance area: Creative shots with tower perspective
   • 259m level: Best cityscape photos
   • Sunset golden hour shots
   • Night illumination views

3. Entry Tips

   • Use Gate 1 for shorter queues (individual visitors)
   • Gate 2 primarily serves tour groups
   • Families with children recommended to use Gate 1

4. Special Features

   • Complimentary 6-inch family photo at entrance
   • Option to upgrade to 8-inch photo with Shanghai landmark background (¥20)

5. Practical Advice

   • Two-sphere ticket recommended for families with young children
   • No re-entry allowed - plan your visit accordingly
   • Visit sunny areas of the Glass Skywalk for warmer photo opportunities

Nearby Attractions

1. Jin Mao Tower

   • 420.5m tall architectural masterpiece
   • 88th floor observation deck
   • Traditional Chinese pagoda-inspired design

2. Shanghai International Convention Center

   • Modern conference facilities
   • Distinctive architecture with globe features
   • Panoramic river views

3. Bund Sightseeing Tunnel

   • Unique cross-river experience
   • Multimedia light show during transit
   • Connects Pudong with the Bund

4. Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

   • World's longest underwater tunnel (155m)
   • Over 300 species of marine life
   • Interactive exhibits and shows