Ways to experience: Access three observation levels, including the 263m main deck, 259m glass skywalk, and the optional 351m space capsule. You'll enjoy views stretching 30-40km on clear days.
Additional access: Dive into Shanghai's history with entry to the Shanghai History Museum and enjoy multimedia shows. Don’t worry about your shoes; you'll get free covers for the glass skywalk.
Unique experiences: Walk onto China’s first 360° glass floor at 259m and be dazzled by vivid LED light displays on the iconic spheres.
When to book: Weekdays or early afternoons are ideal times to visit. Avoid Golden Week and Chinese New Year for shorter queues.
Good to know: Pre-booked tickets help you skip purchase queues, though security and elevator waits are still a thing. Check air quality forecasts to ensure clear views.
Best upgrade: Opt for the Revolving Restaurant package, complete with dedicated elevator access for an unmatched 360° dining experience.
Compare ticket options →
Which Oriental Pearl Tower ticket is best for you?
Ticket type
What’s included
Best for
Price from
Standard Tower Ticket
Access to 263m Main Deck, 259m Skywalk, and 90m Space City.
Galleries at Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower
1/5
Shanghai History Museum
Located at the tower’s base, the museum presents dioramas, wax figures, and artifacts that reconstruct old Shanghai. Quiet corridors guide visitors through immersive exhibits chronicling the city’s transformation from a humble fishing port to a modern metropolis.
Situated within the tower’s largest sphere, the 263m deck offers uninterrupted 360° views of Shanghai’s skyline, including the Bund and Pudong skyscrapers. Floor-to-ceiling windows and clear directional signage guide visitors through this urban panorama.
259m Transparent Skywalk
Located just below the main deck, the 259m transparent skywalk presents a 150-meter glass floor challenge. Reinforced panels offer thrilling views straight down while clear markings and signage direct guests along this high-altitude route.
351m Space Capsule
Accessible via a premium ticket, the 351m space capsule immerses visitors in a futuristic-designed pod. Narrow corridors and compact viewing windows deliver a distant, almost celestial perspective over Shanghai’s expansive urban landscape.
78m Multimedia Show Gallery
Situated at 78m, this gallery features a multimedia show that uses projection mapping and digital displays to narrate Shanghai’s evolution. Dim lighting and controlled acoustics create a focused atmosphere for a brief, engaging visual journey.
Things to know before booking your Oriental Pearl Tower tickets
Choose your ticket type: There are three primary ways to experience the tower. All tickets include access to the Shanghai History Museum (78m) and the Transparent Skywalk (259m).
Mandatory entry requirements: Original passports are mandatory for all foreign visitors to clear security. Lighters and large luggage are prohibited. Tickets are single-entry only; re-entry is not permitted after exiting.
Beating the queues:Tuesday through Thursday mornings (8 to 10am) usually have wait times of under 30 minutes. Weekend afternoons and holidays can see elevator lines of 1–3 hours.
Dining shortcut: Booking a dining package at the Revolving Restaurant is the most effective way to secure "priority" elevator status during peak seasons.
Check the AQI:For the best views, visit when the Air Quality Index is below 150.
Optimal months: October, April, and May offer the clearest skies. Clear days immediately following rain provide the best photography conditions.
Don't rush the museum: Located at the ground level, the Shanghai History Museum takes 1.5–2 hours to explore. Many locals consider the life-size 1920s recreations the highlight of the visit.
Highlights of your Oriental Pearl Tower experience
259m transparent skywalk
150 meters of reinforced glass (2 tons/sqm capacity) offering a vertical view of the streets below. From here, the Huangpu River boats and city traffic look like a miniature model of Shanghai.
Plan your Oriental Pearl Tower experience
Operating hours: Tower opens daily from 8am to 10pm.
Last departure: Last entry permitted at 9:30pm.
Best time of day to go: Arrivals around 4pm to 5pm capture shifting light from golden hour to night views.
Best season or month to visit: Spring and autumn offer clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
Average visit duration: Most visitors spend 2–3 hours exploring the floors and museum.
Getting around: High-speed elevators whisk you between floors in seconds.
Weather & visibility: Your view depends on the sky. Check the forecast for smog or heavy rain; for the best photos, aim for a day with an AQI under 150.
Traveling with kids: Children under 1 meter (3.3 ft) enter for free. Note that some specific glass-floor areas may have height or age safety rules.
Accessibility: The tower is wheelchair-friendly, with dedicated ramps and accessible elevators available at all levels.
Security check: All bags must pass through an X-ray. Do not bring lighters, as they will be confiscated and not returned.
Arrival time: Your ticket has a specific entry time slot. Arrive during your window to ensure you get in quickly; showing up late or without a reserved time may lead to longer waits.
Restrooms are available on each observation level and in the museum.
Lockers near the entrance provide secure storage for personal belongings.
Cafés and snack kiosks serve beverages and light refreshments throughout the tower.
Souvenir shops on multiple floors offer themed memorabilia.
Free Wi-Fi access is provided in common areas.
First-aid stations and assistance counters offer prompt support if needed.
Wear comfortable, breathable clothing suited to variable weather conditions.
A light jacket may be useful in cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces.
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are recommended for smooth transitions through security.
Limit carry-ons to essential items to speed security checks.
Prohibited items include lighters and large bags that could delay entry.
Carry a camera and valid identification for ticket redemption and photo opportunities.
Tips & guidelines
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as surfaces can be slippery, especially on the glass floor; they help keep you stable while moving between observation decks.
Bring your passport (mandatory). It's required for ticket purchase and entry. Chinese nationals can use ID cards. No passport = no entry, even with pre-booked tickets.
Dress in layers since higher observation decks may feel cooler; a light jacket works well in spring or autumn evenings when temperatures drop unexpectedly.
Pack a small bag with essentials, but avoid carrying lighters or bulky items to speed up security and reduce the chance of confiscation during bag checks.
Pre-book online 1-3 days ahead for 10-20% discount and to skip ticket counter queues (saves 30+ minutes). QR code entry is faster. Weekday mornings after 9am have shortest overall wait times.
Ensure your camera or phone is fully charged if you plan to take photos; the lighting may change from bright daylight to softer evening hues during your visit.
Frequently asked questions about Oriental Pearl Tower tickets
Most visitors spend about 2–3 hours exploring the 263m main deck, 259m glass skywalk, 90m lower sphere, multimedia show, and the Shanghai History Museum. With dining or extras, a full experience can extend to 4 hours. Quick visits (observation decks only) take 1-1.5 hours. Standard visits (with museum highlights) take 2-3 hours. Complete experience (all levels + full museum) takes 3-4 hours. For practical tips and maps, see the Plan Your Visit guide.
Pre-booked tickets with a QR code skip the ticket purchase line but not security screening or elevator queues. For faster access, options like the Revolving Restaurant package offer dedicated elevator access to reduce waiting times.
Standard tickets provide access to the 263m observation deck, the 259m transparent glass skywalk, the 90m lower sphere, a 78m multimedia show, and the Shanghai History Museum. They do not include the 351m Space Capsule or dining experiences. Get to know each level and exhibit in this overview of the Oriental Pearl Tower.
Children under 1 meter enter free, while those between 1 and 1.4 meters require a child ticket with adult accompaniment. Additionally, attractions like the VR Roller Coaster have a height requirement of 1.3 meters, so review guidelines if visiting with kids.
Yes, the glass floor is made of ultra-tempered panels designed to support several tons. For those uneasy about stepping fully onto the glass, a solid-floor alternative along the perimeter is available, so you can enjoy the views with added comfort.
Arriving between 4–5 PM allows you to enjoy daylight, sunset, and evening views in a single visit. Weekday mornings typically have shorter queues. Also, check air quality—clear post-rain days offer ideal visibility of Shanghai’s skyline. For seasonal opening hours and last admission times, see the full hours guide. If you're using public transport, see directions and best routes to the tower.
No, large bags are prohibited. Outside food is also restricted. It’s best to travel lightly and follow the posted security rules and visitor tips for a smooth entry experience.
Yes, the tower is equipped with ramps and elevators that serve all major observation levels. The glass skywalk also has a solid alternative for those who prefer not to step on glass. Contact the staff ahead of your visit for any specific accessibility needs.
Poor air quality can reduce view clarity significantly. Check Shanghai’s Air Quality Index before your visit and consider rescheduling if levels exceed 150. Clear, post-rain days are best for capturing panoramic views from the tower.
Standard tickets do not include meals. However, combo packages like the Revolving Restaurant buffet or Coca-Cola Happy Restaurant options combine tower admission with dining and even provide priority elevator access to help bypass long queues.
No, tickets are single-entry only. Once you exit the tower, you cannot re-enter with the same ticket. Plan your visit to experience all the observation decks and museum exhibits in one continuous session.
Several package deals allow you to combine your tower visit with attractions such as a Huangpu River Cruise or a Shanghai Tower observation experience. These combo tickets provide a seamless way to view Shanghai from multiple perspectives while saving time and money.
Most visitors say no—60% report it's not worth the upgrade. The Space Capsule is a themed exhibition room (space displays, VR experiences), not a superior viewing platform. The best views are actually from the 263m main deck, which offers more space and less crowding. The Space Capsule is a 14-meter diameter sphere where most people spend only 10-15 minutes. Save your ¥100 unless you're a completionist or space enthusiast.'
Oriental Pearl Radio & TV Tower TicketsCrafted by Headout, a global experiences brand offering curated tours, tickets & experiences. Discover with ease, book with peace.
Space Capsule upgrade: Who should go?
Reach 351m, Shanghai's highest accessible point, with space-themed VR and interactive exhibits. Best for completionists who want to say "I reached the top" and space enthusiasts.
Experience Shanghai’s skyline from three heights: 360° views, glass skywalk, and a museum journey.
Everything you get: Access the 263m main observation deck for sweeping city views, step onto the thrilling 259m outdoor glass walkway, and stroll the 90m lower sphere viewing corridor. Dive into the immersive Shanghai Municipal History Museum, enjoy the “Future Shanghai” multimedia show, and receive shoe covers for the glass walkway.
Why choose this: Enjoy Shanghai’s best panoramic views, walk on air above the city, and explore a hidden gem museum.
Upgrades: Upgrade to include entry to the 351m Space Capsule, with space-themed exhibitions and VR experiences at Shanghai’s highest accessible point.
Bring a valid passport for ticket purchase and entry; Chinese nationals may use their ID card.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will be standing and walking for extended periods.
Dress in layers, as observation decks, especially the outdoor skywalk and higher levels, can be colder and windier.
Carry your booking confirmation (digital or printed) for smooth entry.
Camera or smartphone for photos; note that window reflections may affect image quality.
What’s not allowed
Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted inside the tower.
Food and beverages, including alcoholic drinks, are not allowed.
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
Re-entry is not allowed once you exit the tower—plan your visit accordingly.
Flash photography, tripods, and professional filming equipment are not allowed on observation decks.
Smoking is strictly prohibited throughout the premises.
Accessibility
The tower is stroller accessible throughout all main levels.
Wheelchair users can access all observation decks, the glass walkway, and the museum via elevators, except for the highest viewing platform in the 351m Space Capsule, which requires stairs.
Accessible restrooms are available on site.
Staff are available to assist guests with mobility needs.
Additional information
Views are weather-dependent; check the Air Quality Index (AQI) before visiting. Visibility is limited if AQI is above 150. October and April–May offer the clearest conditions.
Morning fog usually clears by 10am–12pm; afternoons (2–5pm) typically have better visibility.
Expect wait times of 15–30 minutes on weekday mornings and up to 1–3 hours on weekend afternoons during peak season.
Online tickets allow you to skip the ticket counter queue.
Shoe covers are provided and must be worn on the glass walkway.
The complete experience can take 3.5–4.5 hours, especially if visiting the Space Capsule; plan accordingly.
The Space Capsule closes 30 minutes before the tower’s closing time.
Best times for photography are clear afternoons (2–5pm) or sunset (6–7pm).
Children under 7 may not enjoy the Space Capsule experience.
Some attractions within the tower, such as the revolving restaurant, VR roller coaster, and certain dining options, are not included in standard tickets and require separate fees.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Dine at Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower. Choose between a 267m revolving restaurant or the Coca-Cola themed buffet, then explore the observation decks.
Everything you get: Dining inside the tower, unlimited soft drinks, entry to the 263m observation deck, 259m glass walkway, 90m lower sphere, multimedia show, and Shanghai Municipal History Museum.
Why choose this: Combine dining and sightseeing in one seamless visit—upgrade to the revolving restaurant for priority elevator access and a full 360° rotating city view.
Upgrades: Upgrade to a revolving restaurant package for skip-the-line elevator access, 267m dining, and a full 360° rotating city view.
Inclusions
#
Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower Access
Entry to 263m main observation deck
Access to 259m transparent glass walkway
90m lower sphere viewing corridor
78m multimedia show
Shanghai Municipal History Museum
Shoe covers for glass walkway
Dining (based on option selected)
Buffet meal (lunch or dinner)
Unlimited soft drinks (Coca-Cola products or non-alcoholic beverages, depending on restaurant)
Four buffet stations (Chinese, Japanese, Western, desserts)
Priority elevator access (revolving restaurant option only)
Exclusions
#
Alcoholic beverages
351m Space Capsule access
VR Roller Coaster (separate fee)
Huangpu River cruise
Personal expenses
What to bring
A valid photo ID matching the name on your booking (may be required for verification).
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. The 259m glass walkway is partially outdoors and can be windy in winter.
Check the Air Quality Index (AQI) before your visit, as high pollution levels may affect visibility from the observation decks.
What’s not allowed
Outside food and drinks.
Large suitcases or oversized luggage.
Smoking, vaping, or e-cigarettes.
Tripods, professional filming equipment, or flash photography in observation areas.
Access to the 351m Space Capsule, VR Roller Coaster, and Huangpu River cruise (separate tickets required).
Alcoholic beverages are not included in either dining option.
Accessibility
The tower, restaurants, and observation decks are wheelchair accessible.
Elevators operate throughout the building.
Accessible restrooms are available onsite.
Additional Information
There is no time limit for visiting the observation decks after your meal.
Window seating at the revolving restaurant is subject to availability. Arrive 15–30 minutes early to request it.
Smart casual attire is recommended for dinner at the revolving restaurant.
Personal expenses and gratuities are not included.
Dining & Elevator Information
Revolving Restaurant option: Includes priority elevator access and a buffet meal at 267m with a full 360° rotating city view.
Coca-Cola Happy Restaurant option: Located at ground level and uses the standard elevator queue for tower access.
Standard elevator wait times may range from 30 minutes on weekdays to 1–3 hours on weekends and holidays.
Lunch service typically runs from 11am–2pm. The revolving restaurant also offers dinner from 5pm–9pm. Observation decks are open from 8am–9:30pm.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
See Shanghai from sky-high glass walkways and a river cruise: two perspectives, one ticket, and save!
Everything you get: Entry to the Oriental Pearl Tower’s 263m main observation deck, 259m outdoor glass walkway, and 90m lower sphere, plus access to the Shanghai Municipal History Museum and the immersive “Future Shanghai” show. Includes a 45-minute Huangpu River cruise with English and Chinese audio commentary, indoor cabin seating, outdoor deck access, and stunning views of both the Bund’s historic architecture and Pudong’s modern skyline.
Why choose this: Flexible scheduling, panoramic views, and a bundled price that saves you ¥30–70 versus booking separately.
Inclusions
#
Entry to 263m main observation deck
Access to 259m glass walkway (outdoor)
90m lower sphere viewing corridor
'Future Shanghai' multimedia show (78m)
Shanghai Municipal History Museum entry
Shoe covers for glass walkway
45-minute Huangpu River cruise
English and Chinese audio commentary
Indoor cabin seating on cruise
Outdoor deck access on cruise
Views of Bund architecture (Puxi)
Views of Pudong skyline (modern)
Exclusions
#
351m Space Capsule access
Food and drinks on cruise (bar service available for purchase)
Revolving Restaurant buffet
Coca-Cola Happy Restaurant
VR Roller Coaster
Transportation between tower and cruise terminal (2-minute walk)
Personal expenses
What to bring
Bring your original passport for both tower entry and cruise check-in; this is mandatory for all guests.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will be standing and walking for extended periods.
Bring layers or a light jacket to accommodate changing weather, especially for outdoor observation decks and the cruise’s open-air sections.
Ensure your phone or camera is fully charged for photos.
What’s not allowed
Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted inside the tower or on the cruise.
Outside food and drinks are not allowed; food and beverages are available for purchase on the cruise.
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
Smoking, alcohol, and illegal substances are strictly prohibited on the premises and during the cruise.
Re-entry is not allowed once you exit the tower, plan your visit accordingly.
Accessibility
The Oriental Pearl Tower is fully accessible by elevator, with accessible restrooms available.
The cruise features a boarding ramp for wheelchair users; however, access to the upper outdoor deck may be limited for guests with mobility needs. Please confirm accessibility requirements when booking.
Additional information
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled cruise departure time.
The cruise terminal is adjacent to the Oriental Pearl Tower base, approximately a 2-minute walk.
Tower and cruise can be experienced on the same day or on separate days, check your ticket’s validity period.
No skip-the-line benefit is included for tower entry with this ticket; queues can be long, especially on weekends (1–3 hours). Weekday mornings are less crowded.
The best months for clear views are October and April–May; check air quality and weather forecasts before your visit.
Shoe covers are provided for the glass walkway at the tower.
Food and drinks are not included but can be purchased on the cruise.
Access to the 351m Space Capsule, revolving restaurant, Coca-Cola Happy Restaurant, and VR Roller Coaster is not included with this ticket.
Transportation between the tower and cruise terminal is not provided but is a short walk.
Children under 1m may enter free of charge but must be accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Tickets
Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower Tickets
Experience Shanghai’s skyline from three heights: 360° views, glass skywalk, and a museum journey.
Everything you get: Access the 263m main observation deck for sweeping city views, step onto the thrilling 259m outdoor glass walkway, and stroll the 90m lower sphere viewing corridor. Dive into the immersive Shanghai Municipal History Museum, enjoy the “Future Shanghai” multimedia show, and receive shoe covers for the glass walkway.
Why choose this: Enjoy Shanghai’s best panoramic views, walk on air above the city, and explore a hidden gem museum.
Upgrades: Upgrade to include entry to the 351m Space Capsule, with space-themed exhibitions and VR experiences at Shanghai’s highest accessible point.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Flexible duration
Tickets
#Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower Tickets with Lunch/Dinner Buffet
Dine at Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower. Choose between a 267m revolving restaurant or the Coca-Cola themed buffet, then explore the observation decks.
Everything you get: Dining inside the tower, unlimited soft drinks, entry to the 263m observation deck, 259m glass walkway, 90m lower sphere, multimedia show, and Shanghai Municipal History Museum.
Why choose this: Combine dining and sightseeing in one seamless visit—upgrade to the revolving restaurant for priority elevator access and a full 360° rotating city view.
Upgrades: Upgrade to a revolving restaurant package for skip-the-line elevator access, 267m dining, and a full 360° rotating city view.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
1 hr. 30 min. - 3 hr.
Meals included
Tickets
Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower with Huangpu River Cruise
See Shanghai from sky-high glass walkways and a river cruise: two perspectives, one ticket, and save!
Everything you get: Entry to the Oriental Pearl Tower’s 263m main observation deck, 259m outdoor glass walkway, and 90m lower sphere, plus access to the Shanghai Municipal History Museum and the immersive “Future Shanghai” show. Includes a 45-minute Huangpu River cruise with English and Chinese audio commentary, indoor cabin seating, outdoor deck access, and stunning views of both the Bund’s historic architecture and Pudong’s modern skyline.
Why choose this: Flexible scheduling, panoramic views, and a bundled price that saves you ¥30–70 versus booking separately.