Top things to do in Shanghai

Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai: Quick overview

  • 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 typeWhat’s includedBest forPrice from

Standard Tower Ticket

Access to 263m Main Deck, 259m Skywalk, and 90m Space City.

Essential skyline views without extra upgrades

US $25.37

Tower + Huangpu Cruise

Combines tower entry with a 45-minute river cruise for a 360° view of the Bund.

Combines tower entry with a 45-minute river cruise for a 360° view of the Bund.

US $35.51

Tower + Dining

Includes a meal at the Revolving Restaurant; VIP elevator access helps bypass long queues.

Skip long elevator queues and combine dining with uninterrupted views

US $37.99

Galleries at Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower

Entrance of Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai with visitors on steps.
Observation deck view at Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai, with city skyline in the background.
Child on transparent skywalk at Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai, overlooking cityscape.
Children engaging with space exhibit at Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai.
Girl observing digital display at 78m Multimedia Show Gallery, Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai.
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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.

Tower history & facts

263m Main Observation Deck

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

View from Oriental Pearl Tower observation deck, Shanghai, looking down at city streets.

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.

Woman viewing Shanghai skyline from Oriental Pearl Tower observation deck.
Watch store interior at Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai, with display cases and customers browsing.
Shanghai Urban History Development Exhibition Hall display with Oriental Pearl Tower view.
Middle sphere of the Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai with geometric design.

Plan your Oriental Pearl Tower experience

Oriental Pearl TV Tower in Shanghai, China, with surrounding cityscape.
  • 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.
Tower hours & best time to visit
  • Location: Situated in the heart of Lujiazui within Pudong’s modern skyline.
  • Address: No. 1 Century Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 200120, China.
  • Getting there: Metro access via Lujiazui Station (Line 2/14, Exit 1; 2–4-minute walk).
  • Transit options: Bus services and taxis readily available near the area.
  • Parking: Nearby underground parking exists for short-term stays.
  • Google Maps: View location
How to get to the Oriental Pearl Tower
Wheelchair access ramp sign with cityscape background.
  • 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.
Visitor tips and regulations
Person placing folders in an open locker.
  • 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.
Women taking a selfie on the observation deck at Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai.
  • 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.