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Experience the best of Shanghai Tower

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Quick overview

  • Ways to explore: Enjoy standard admission with access to the 118th-floor observatory of Shanghai Tower.
  • Additional access: Upgrade to include entry to the Sky 632 Art Space and the 126th-floor damper light show, in addition to the main deck.
  • Unique experiences: Send postcards from the world’s highest post office and view Shanghai’s 360° skyline from floor-to-ceiling windows.
  • Queues & access: Timed entry with direct elevator access to the observatory; standard security screening applies.
  • When to book: Book early for peak hours, evenings, or weekends when entry slots can fill up.
  • Good to know: Tickets are single-entry, offer free cancellation up to 24 hours, and are wheelchair accessible.

Your Shanghai Tower Tickets

Ticket typeMain inclusionsBest forUpgrade optionsDurationWhy pick this

Shanghai Tower Observation Deck Tickets

Entry to Shanghai Tower, access to the 118th & 119th floors

First-time visitors

Fast-track entry, Art Exhibition, 126th Floor Damper Light Show

1.5–2 hours

The classic Shanghai Tower experience with flexible upgrade options for better views and shorter waits.

Shanghai Tower Observation Deck + 119F Dining

118th & 119th floor access with lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner

Couples, food lovers, special occasions

125th & 126th Floor Damper Light Show

2–3 hours

Combine panoramic skyline views with a meal above the city in one convenient booking.

Shanghai Tower Observation Deck + Souvenir

118th & 119th floor access plus a themed souvenir

Visitors looking for a keepsake

Art Exhibition and choice of souvenir (magnet, notebook, scarf, thermos, postcard, shoulder bag, or ice cream)

1.5–2 hours

Enjoy Shanghai's best views and leave with a memorable keepsake included in your ticket.

Shanghai Tower Observation Deck + Huangpu River Cruise

118th-floor observatory and Huangpu River sightseeing cruise

First-time visitors

3–4 hours

Experience Shanghai's skyline from both its highest observation deck and the Huangpu River.

Shanghai Tower

118th & 119th floor access plus one-way or round-trip tunnel ride

Families and visitors exploring The Bund

One-way or round-trip tunnel ride

2–3 hours

Pair aerial city views with an immersive underground multimedia ride beneath the Huangpu River.

Shanghai Tower Observation Deck + Huangpu River Cruise

118th-floor observatory and Guanfu Museum admission

Art, history, and culture enthusiasts

2–3 hours

Combine Shanghai's modern skyline with centuries of Chinese art and cultural heritage in one visit.

Shanghai Tower Observation Deck + AI Dream Immersive Theater

118th-floor observatory and AI Dream immersive experience

Tech enthusiasts, families, immersive entertainment fans

2.5–3 hours

Pair breathtaking skyline views with a futuristic interactive sci-fi adventure inside Shanghai Tower.

What to expect at Shanghai Tower

Visitors observing a light display inside Shanghai Tower.
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Arriving at the base

Step into the tower’s multimedia exhibition hall where interactive displays and scale models introduce you to its innovative, twisting design. You start your journey with clear insights into the engineering marvel before heading to the elevators.

Riding the high-speed elevator

Ride one of the world’s fastest elevators and reach the observatory in under a minute, ascending rapidly from the lobby to the top floors.

Exploring the observation deck

Step onto the 118th-floor observatory for 360° views of Shanghai’s skyline through floor-to-ceiling glass, including sights like the Bund and Huangpu River.

Upgrading to the Damper Show

Opt for the upgrade and enjoy access to floors 125–126, where a 1,000-ton tuned mass damper stabilizes the tower.

Wrapping up with sky lounge reflections

Conclude your visit at the 119th-floor café as you relax and reflect on your sky-high adventure. Many visitors pause here to send a postcard from the world’s highest post office and capture one last look at Shanghai’s brilliant light show at dusk.

Things to know before booking your Shanghai Tower tickets

  • Choose the ticket that suits your visit: Shanghai Tower offers more than standard observation deck tickets. Along with entry to the 118th and 119th floors, you can choose combo experiences featuring a Huangpu River Cruise, Bund Sightseeing Tunnel, Guanfu Museum, AI Dream Immersive Theater, dining at the 119th-floor café, or souvenir packages. Some tickets also include fast-track entry, the 125th Floor Art Exhibition, or the 126th Floor Damper Light Show.
  • Booking & timed entry: All tickets include timed entry, so you'll need to arrive during your selected time slot. Popular sunset slots, weekends, and public holidays sell out fastest, so it's best to book in advance if you want a specific entry time or premium add-ons.
  • What's included: Standard admission includes entry to Shanghai Tower with access to the 118th and 119th floor observation decks, where you'll enjoy panoramic views from nearly 546 metres above the city. Depending on your ticket, your visit may also include Top of Shanghai access, fast-track entry, the Art Exhibition, the Damper Light Show, dining, souvenirs, or partner attractions.
  • Planning your visit: Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the observation decks, though you can stay longer during operating hours. If you've booked a combo experience or dining package, allow extra time for your meal or second attraction, as transportation between attractions is generally not included.
  • Before you arrive: Carry a valid photo ID or passport, as identification may be required during entry verification. All visitors must pass through a security screening before entering the tower. Large luggage and prohibited items are not permitted.
  • Accessibility & visitor information: Shanghai Tower is wheelchair accessible, with step-free elevators serving all public floors included with your ticket. Accessible restrooms are available throughout the attraction. Re-entry is not permitted once you leave the observatory area, so complete your visit before exiting.

Explore Shanghai Tower

Woman walking past summer-themed cartoon decals on Shanghai Tower windows.
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118th-floor observation deck

Take in 360° panoramic views of Shanghai from one of the world’s highest indoor observatories.

125th & 126th floors

See the tower’s massive tuned mass damper and experience the immersive light show around it.

High-speed elevator ride

Reach the upper floors in under a minute in one of the world’s fastest elevators.

Multimedia exhibition hall (B1)

Explore interactive displays about the tower’s design, engineering, and construction.

Shanghai skyline views

Spot landmarks along the Huangpu River, including the Bund and Pudong skyline.

Photo opportunities

Capture stunning skyline photos from one of the tallest buildings in the world.

World’s highest post office

Send a postcard from one of the world’s highest post offices inside Shanghai Tower and mark your visit with a unique souvenir.

Sky-high café

Take a break at the tower’s café and enjoy drinks or light bites with wide views of the Shanghai skyline.

Must-see features at Shanghai Tower

Colorful paper lanterns and decorations inside Shanghai Tower observation deck.

Top of Shanghai Observatory

Breathtaking 360° views of Shanghai unfold from this indoor deck at the height of 546 meters. Notice the Bund, Pudong skyline, and Huangpu River through vast glass walls.
Pro tip: Visit at dusk for magical day-to-day transitions.

Eye of Shanghai sculpture illuminated by golden light inside Shanghai Tower.
Family exploring digital skyscraper exhibit inside Shanghai Tower.
Couple shopping for souvenirs in Shanghai Tower gift shop.
Visitors viewing colorful hanging wishes inside Shanghai Tower.

Plan your visit to Shanghai Tower

Woman enjoying desserts with a view of Shanghai from Shanghai Tower.
  • Opening hours: The tower is open daily from 8:30am to 10pm.
  • Last ticket sale: Last admission is at 9:30pm.
  • Visit duration: Most visitors spend around 1–2 hours at the observatory.

Best time to visit

  • Morning visits: Early mornings offer clearer air and fewer crowds.
  • Sunset slots: Late afternoons between 4:30 PM and 6:30 PM capture dramatic views.
  • Seasonal tip: October and November and spring months provide optimal weather.
  • Address: No. 501 Yincheng Middle Road, Pudong, Shanghai, China | View on maps
  • Area context: The tower is located in the Lujiazui Financial District of Pudong.
  • Local landmark: It towers among other skyscrapers visible from nearby transit points.
Restroom sign with symbols for men, women, and wheelchair accessibility.
  • Restrooms: Restrooms are available on all visitor floors.
  • Dining: A café and snack bars are situated on the 119th floor.
  • Exhibitions: Multimedia exhibitions and interactive displays enhance your visit.
  • Elevators: High-speed elevators provide quick access to the observation deck.
  • Gift shop: A gift shop and post office offer unique, tower-themed souvenirs.
Wheelchair in a museum setting highlighting accessibility features.
  • Entry: The tower offers wheelchair-accessible entrances and barrier-free pathways.
  • Elevators: High-speed elevators ensure smooth, step-free access to visitor floors.
  • Facilities: Accessible restrooms and seating areas are available throughout the tower.
  • Support: Staff assistance is readily available for visitors with extra needs.
Sign indicating outside food and beverages are not allowed in the outdoor seating area.
  • Security screening: All visitors undergo bag checks; large luggage is not allowed.
  • Photography: Personal photography is allowed, but tripods need prior approval.
  • Food policy: Outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the tower.
  • Re-entry: Once you exit the tower, re-entry is not permitted.

Tips & guidelines

  • Don’t join the main ticket counter line at the ground-level entrance; use the mobile QR kiosk to minimize delays.
  • Choose an entry slot between 8:30am and 9:30am at the main lobby to enjoy a quieter ascent and smoother elevator ride.
  • At the 118th-floor observation deck’s west window, pause for unobstructed photos capturing the Bund and Pudong skyline.
  • Avoid the side staircase near the 125th-floor damper exhibit during windy days; use designated elevators for safer transit.
  • Keep personal bags small when entering the B1 exhibition hall; oversized items may trigger extra security checks.
  • During peak hours, use the express elevator at the designated ground-level entrance to bypass crowded queues efficiently.
  • Explore the 119th-floor café for unexpected panoramic views; its windows offer unique angles and quieter seating areas.

Frequently asked questions about Shanghai Tower tickets

Yes, especially on peak days when sunset and holiday slots sell out quickly. Pre-booking online secures your timed entry and mobile ticket, letting you skip the on-site counter and avoid long waiting lines.