Oriental Pearl Tower

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Spot Introduction

The Oriental Pearl Tower, standing at 468 meters tall, is Shanghai’s iconic landmark. It consists of 11 spheres of various sizes connected in series, symbolizing the modernization of Shanghai. This tower is not only one of the tallest TV towers in Asia but also integrates sightseeing, dining, shopping, and entertainment.

Construction of this remarkable building commenced on July 30, 1991, and was completed on October 1, 1994, designed by the Shanghai Modern Architectural Design Group. Its unique design draws inspiration from the poetic image of “big and small pearls falling into a jade plate” described in the Tang Dynasty poet Bai Juyi’s “Pipa Xing.” The three primary spheres are positioned at heights of 112 meters, 263 meters, and 350 meters, with the largest sphere having a diameter of 50 meters.

Beyond being a tourist attraction, the Oriental Pearl Tower serves as a crucial radio and television transmission center. It is responsible for transmitting 40 radio and television programs in the Shanghai area, covering a radius of 80 kilometers. Additionally, the tower houses the Shanghai City History Development Exhibition Hall. Through precious artifacts and multimedia presentations, it vividly recreates the urban transformation of Shanghai over the past century.

As a prominent landmark of Shanghai, the Oriental Pearl Tower has witnessed numerous significant historical moments. In 1999, it was listed as one of Shanghai’s top ten new landscapes. In 2007, it was recognized as a national 5A-level tourist attraction. During the 2010 Shanghai World Expo, it became an essential window showcasing China’s modernization achievements.

Must-Visit Attractions

  1. 259-meter Observation Deck

    • Revolving Restaurant
    • Panoramic View
    • Suggested Visiting Time: 60 minutes

  2. Suspended Observation Corridor

    • Transparent Glass
    • Overlooking Lujiazui
    • Suggested Visiting Time: 30 minutes

  3. Shanghai History Museum

    • City Transformation
    • Wax Figure Display
    • Suggested Visiting Time: 45 minutes

  4. Space Capsule

    • Technology Experience
    • Night View of the City
    • Suggested Visiting Time: 30 minutes

Visiting Suggestions

  1. Best Touring Route

    • History Museum → Observation Deck
    • Suspended Corridor → Space Capsule
    • Recommended to visit from bottom to top

  2. Visiting Schedule

    • Best in the evening
    • Avoid holidays
    • Visit when the weather is clear

  3. Practical Tips

    • Book tickets ahead of time
    • Bring a camera
    • Avoid peak hours

Transportation Guide

  • Subway: Line 2, Lujiazui Station
  • Bus: Route 81, 82, 85
  • Ferry: Lujiazui Dock
  • Self-drive: Parking available

Nearby Food Recommendations

  1. Revolving Restaurant
  2. Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)
  3. Local Cuisine
  4. Seafood Buffet

Special Reminders

  1. Book tickets ahead of time
  2. Check the weather
  3. Bring a camera
  4. Avoid peak hours
  5. Dress comfortably
  6. Beware of heights
  7. Enjoy the beautiful night view
  8. Stay safe.