I’m Michael Zhang, a seasoned Chinese travel expert with extensive international experience. My passion lies in exploring history, culture, and immersive travel experiences. Through a professional lens, I’m here to share every remarkable detail of your journey. In this guide, we’ll dive into China’s tallest building—the Shanghai Tower. This architectural marvel is a window into modern China’s exceptional achievements and aspirations.

Summary

Introduction to the Shanghai Tower

The Shanghai Tower is a colossal skyscraper and a modern landmark in Shanghai. Standing at a breathtaking 632 meters, it’s the tallest building in China and the third tallest in the world. Construction began on November 29, 2008, and was completed on March 12, 2016. This tower serves multiple purposes, housing offices, hotels, retail spaces, and observation areas, making it a vibrant hub for business and tourism alike. The main structure has 127 floors above ground and 5 below, with an additional podium building extending across 7 floors (5 above ground, 2 below), standing at a height of 38 meters.

  • Location: 501 Yincheng Middle Rd, Lujiazui, Pudong, Shanghai (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Height: 632 meters
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (last ticket sold at 9:30 p.m.)
  • Suggested Visit Duration: 2 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Year-round
  • Official Website: Click Here
  • Ticket Prices: 180 RMB
  • Ticket Purchase: Trip.com Discounts, Klook Deals, KKday Offers
Shanghai World Financial Center illuminated through clouds, view from Shanghai Tower

Why Visit the Shanghai Tower?

As the tallest building in China, the Shanghai Tower is not only a marvel of height but also a masterpiece of design and technology. With elevators that reach a speed of 18 meters per second, visitors are whisked up to the 118th floor’s “Top of Shanghai” observation deck in just 55 seconds, offering sweeping views of Shanghai’s bustling skyline. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a stunning sunset over the cityscape.

Design Philosophy The Shanghai Tower’s spiral design symbolizes modern China’s rapid growth and ascent on the world stage. This dragon-like structure seems to “break through the earth,” embodying an innovative fusion of contemporary design and traditional Chinese culture. The architects drew inspiration from the winding Huangpu River, integrating its curves and the city’s asymmetrical layout into the building’s overall structure.

The tower also incorporates “blurred spaces,” influenced by the shikumen architectural style unique to Shanghai. The winding lanes and courtyards, once central to social life in Shanghai, are reimagined vertically in the Shanghai Tower, creating a uniquely layered social experience at soaring heights.

Things to Do at the Shanghai Tower

Attractions Within the Shanghai Tower

Top of Shanghai Observation Deck

The “Top of Shanghai” Observation Deck, located on the 118th floor of the Shanghai Tower, is one of the city’s most breathtaking attractions. From here, visitors can take in panoramic views of Shanghai’s vibrant skyline. Whether you’re exploring by day or marveling at the city lights at night, the view is unforgettable. The deck features popular photo spots such as the “Sky Mirror” for reflection photos, “Locks of the Heart” symbolizing romance, and the “Sky Post Office” where you can send a unique postcard with a special stamp. On clear days, sunset views are truly enchanting, making it a top spot for capturing memories of your Shanghai visit.

panoramic view of Shanghai skyline at night from Shanghai Tower

The 1,000-Ton Tuned Mass Damper

On the 126th floor sits a colossal 1,000-ton tuned mass damper, an engineering marvel designed to stabilize the skyscraper against strong winds. As one of the world’s largest and heaviest dampers, it demonstrates Shanghai Tower’s advanced structural design. Visitors can see this impressive “silent guardian” up close, gaining a unique perspective on how it supports the building’s stability and reinforces its engineering excellence.

massive tuned mass damper on the 126th floor of Shanghai Tower

Shanghai Tower Ticket Information

Shanghai Tower Ticket Prices

Top of Shanghai Observation Deck
  • Included: Access to the Shanghai Tower Exhibition Hall on B1, the Observation Deck on the 118th floor, and the café on the 119th floor.
  • Adults: 180 CNY
  • Children: 90 CNY (height 1.0–1.4 meters)
  • Seniors: 120 CNY (age 60 and above)
  • Free Entry: Children under 1 meter or age 3 and below
  • Hours: Open daily 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (last ticket sale at 9:30 p.m.)
  • Note: Valid ID required for entry.
  • Included: All areas mentioned above plus the 125th and 126th floors for the Sky 632 Art Space.
  • Adults: 268 CNY
  • Children: 168 CNY (height 1.0–1.4 meters)
  • Seniors: 198 CNY (age 60 and above)
  • Free Entry: Children under 1 meter or age 3 and below

Where to Purchase Tickets

Shanghai Tower Self-Guided Tour

A guided tour isn’t necessary for exploring the Shanghai Tower, making it ideal for independent visitors. With a relatively short route focused on the city’s views, the tower doesn’t feature extensive historical exhibits. Guests can freely explore each highlight, including the breathtaking “Top of Shanghai” Observation Deck on the 118th floor, the 119th-floor Café in the Clouds, and the art space on the 126th floor. Together, these levels offer a stunning view of Shanghai’s skyline and showcase the impressive, modern design of this iconic structure.

Start your journey by purchasing tickets at the “Top of Shanghai” ticket office, located in the northwest corner of the Shanghai Tower (near Yincheng Middle Road and Huayuan Shiqiao Road). Enter through the main entrance to reach the “Top of Shanghai” Exhibition Hall on B1, where you’ll learn about the tower’s background and architectural highlights. After this introduction, take the escalator to B2 and board a high-speed elevator, which will whisk you to the 118th-floor observation deck in just 55 seconds, marking the start of your high-altitude adventure.

  • 118th Floor: This floor features popular photo spots, including the Sky Mirror (perfect for reflection photos), Locks of the Heart (symbolizing romance), Sky Post Office (where you can send a unique postcard), Wishing Tree (for hopeful wishes), Sunset at the Sky, and the Shanghai Gifts shop. From here, enjoy a sweeping view of Lujiazui’s iconic “Big Three” skyscrapers and take in the cityscape from a new perspective.
  • 119th Floor: Café in the Clouds offers a memorable dining experience. Indulge in afternoon tea or dinner as you look out over Shanghai from a different vantage point. The floor-to-ceiling windows allow for a panoramic experience, enhancing the sense of dining above the clouds.
  • 126th Floor: The highest level of the tower features the 632 Art Space and the massive 1,000-ton tuned mass damper. This damper, an engineering marvel, stabilizes the tower against high-altitude winds and serves as a symbol of the Shanghai Tower’s safety and strength. Here, you can take in a breathtaking view of the entire city, making it a fitting finale to your Shanghai Tower visit.

Affordable Hotels Near Shanghai Tower

Shanghai Tower is located in Lujiazui, Pudong, surrounded by many popular attractions. However, hotel options in this area are limited and often expensive. We recommend staying in the Yu Garden and The Bund areas instead. These neighborhoods are close to The Bund, Yu Garden, and Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, and are among the most bustling parts of Shanghai. The night views and city lights are breathtaking, and many luxury hotels are located here. For more details, see our <Shanghai Hotel Guide>.

Mercure Shanghai Yu Garden

Mercure Shanghai Yu Garden
  • Location: 9-minute walk from Laoximen Metro Station, 10-minute walk from Yu Garden Station
  • Price Range: 555 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Gym, robot room service, laundry, family rooms

A short 5-10 minute walk to Yu Garden, with shuttle service to The Bund and metro stations, making it extremely convenient for exploring. Surrounded by shopping malls and restaurants, perfect for dining and shopping excursions.

Comfortable resting areas, complimentary tea, mineral water, cookies, and candy in the lobby. Rooms are spacious, clean, and offer free water and soft drinks.

Crystal Orange Hotel Shanghai The Bund Yu Garden

Crystal Orange Hotel Shanghai The Bund Yu Garden
  • Location: 7-minute walk from Yu Garden Metro Station
  • Price Range: 652 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Gym, robot room service, laundry, family rooms

Very close to The Bund, with Yu Garden and City God Temple just behind the hotel. Located near Yu Garden Commercial Street, offering a wide variety of dining options.

Impeccable hygiene and renovation, with a rich and delicious breakfast. Excellent overall service.

Blossom House Shanghai on the Bund

Blossom House Shanghai on the Bund
  • Location: 7-minute walk from Yu Garden Metro Station
  • Price Range: 949 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.7
  • Special Amenities: Gym, robot room service, family rooms, rooms with river views

Excellent location across from Yu Garden, a short walk to The Bund and Yu Garden Commercial Street. Offers complimentary sweet soup after 8 PM.

Elegantly furnished rooms with excellent soundproofing. River view rooms provide stunning views of the Huangpu River and iconic Shanghai skyline. Rich breakfast variety.

Getting to the Shanghai Tower from Downtown Shanghai

By Subway

  • Metro Line 2: Take Line 2 to Lujiazui Station. Exit from Gate 6, pass through the LG2 level of Shanghai IFC Mall, and you’ll reach the Shanghai Tower.
  • Metro Line 14: Take Line 14 to Lujiazui Station and exit at Gate 9A. It’s just a short walk to the Shanghai Tower.

By Bus

You can take buses 455, 85, 774, 779, 798, 799, 971, or 992 to reach the tower area.

By Ferry

For a unique experience, head to the East Zhongshan Road Ferry Terminal in the Bund area, where you can catch a ferry to Dongchang Road Ferry Terminal in Pudong. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the Shanghai Tower.

Café in the Clouds – 119th Floor

  • Location: Perched on the 119th floor at an altitude of 552 meters, this café offers stunning 360-degree views of Shanghai. Whether you visit during the day or at night, the scenery is breathtaking.
  • Ambiance: With a modern, elegant design and floor-to-ceiling windows, this space is perfect for a romantic date or a business dinner, offering a sweeping cityscape as your backdrop.
  • Dining Experience:
    • Afternoon Tea: Enjoy an elegant tea set complete with a variety of sweets, sandwiches, and specialty teas. Afternoon tea here is a delightful escape above the clouds.
    • Dinner: The dinner menu centers around Western-style set meals, with dishes like baked lobster and braised short ribs. Each dish is crafted with care, and the flavors are rich and refined—making it a favorite among diners.
afternoon tea set at Café in the Clouds on the 119th floor of Shanghai Tower with a city view

FAQ

Can I bring a stroller into the Shanghai Tower?

Yes, strollers are permitted. However, the space in the observation elevators is limited, so it’s best to plan accordingly based on crowd levels.

Is there a place to store luggage?

Yes, luggage storage is available at the first-floor ticket office and the underground shopping corridor on B2, making it convenient for those traveling with bags or other items.

Essential Shanghai Travel Resources