Oriental Pearl Tower
Shanghai Shi
The Oriental Pearl Tower, located in Lujiazui on the banks of the Huangpu River opposite the Bund, is a distinctive futuristic TV tower that has become an iconic symbol of Shanghai. Completed in 1994, it was the tallest structure in China until 2007, standing at 468 meters tall including its antenna. The tower's design, inspired by the Tang poet Bai Juyi's poem "Pipa Xing," features three large spherical platforms connected by pillars and elevators. It houses fifteen observation decks, including panoramic glass floors, a revolving restaurant, an indoor roller coaster, museums, and a 20-room Space Hotel between the two large spheres. The tower serves multiple functions including broadcasting, tourism, dining, and entertainment. Its unique architecture and cultural significance have made it a major tourist attraction and a key part of Shanghai's skyline. The tower is also known for its innovative foundation engineering to support construction on soft soil.
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Tip: The best time to visit the Oriental Pearl Tower is on clear days for optimal panoramic views of Shanghai. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long queues, especially on weekends and holidays. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. The tower is easily accessible via Lujiazui metro station (Lines 2 and 14), and nearby public transport options include numerous bus routes. Consider visiting the revolving restaurant for a unique dining experience with stunning views. Early morning or late afternoon visits can help avoid peak crowds.
Interesting facts
- •The tower's design reflects the poem "Pipa Xing" by Tang poet Bai Juyi, symbolizing pearls falling on a jade plate.
- •It was the tallest freestanding structure in China and Asia from 1994 to 2007.
- •The tower includes an indoor roller coaster within its lower spheres.
- •A 20-room Space Hotel is located between two of the large spheres.
- •The tower has fifteen observation levels, some with panoramic glass floors offering spectacular views.
- •The foundation technology used here was later applied to the nearby Jin Mao Tower.
History
Planning for the Oriental Pearl Tower began in the early 1980s to replace older broadcasting infrastructure and increase TV signal capacity in Shanghai.
The final design, inspired by a Tang dynasty poem, was selected in 1988.
Construction started in 1991, with the foundation laid on July 30 and the tower body topped out by December 1993.
The antenna was installed in May 1994, and the tower officially opened to the public on May 1, 1995.
It was the tallest building in China until 2007.
Over the years, the tower has hosted many foreign dignitaries and has become a symbol of Shanghai's modernization and urban development.
Place Guide
Lower Sphere Observation Deck1994
The largest lower sphere at 50 meters diameter located around 100 meters high serves as a major observation platform and houses an indoor roller coaster for visitors.
Middle Spheres and Space Hotel1994
Five smaller spheres between 118 and 210 meters house the Space Hotel rooms, offering a unique lodging experience high above the city.
Upper Sphere and Revolving Restaurant1994
Located above 250 meters, the upper sphere contains broadcasting equipment and a revolving restaurant that completes a full rotation every two hours, seating up to 1600 guests.
Space Capsule (Top Sphere)1996
The topmost sphere, 16 meters in diameter, houses a premium observation deck, conference hall, and café, offering views extending to the Yangtze River estuary and beyond on clear days.
Contact
Phone: 021 5879 1888