Oriental Pearl Tower

Overview

The Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower rises 468 meters above Pudong and was Shanghai's first modern skyscraper icon when it opened in 1994. Its distinctive pink spheres and futuristic silhouette remain one of the most recognizable structures in Asia.

Highlights

• Space Capsule: The highest observation level at 351 meters offers 360-degree panoramas.
• Glass Walkway: A transparent sky-walk at 259 meters provides a vertigo-inducing view straight down.
• Shanghai History Museum: Located at the base, this free museum recreates street scenes from old Shanghai.

History

Designed by architect Jia Huan Cheng and completed in 1994, the tower was the tallest structure in China until 2007. Its design symbolizes two dragons playing with pearls, a motif from Chinese folklore.

Visitor Tips

• Skip-the-Line: Book tickets online to avoid the often-lengthy queues.
• Sunset Visits: Arrive around 5 PM for the best light transition.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours including the history museum.