Introduction
An undisputed icon of Shanghai, the Oriental Pearl Tower stands on the banks of the Huangpu River in Pudong, directly facing the Bund across the water and aligned with the mouth of Suzhou Creek. Officially known as the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower, it was completed in 1994 and functions as a broadcasting tower. Its design is poetic and symbolic, evoking the image of “large and small pearls falling onto a jade plate”(A verse by the Chinese Tang Dynasty poet 白居易: “大珠小珠落玉盘”). After many years of operation, however, some facilities now show signs of age.
Since the 1980s, Shanghai’s rapid urban development has seen a surge in high-rise buildings exceeding 100 meters, which began to interfere with the signal coverage of the existing television tower. This led to the decision to construct a taller and more advanced tower.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and autumn, when the weather is most pleasant.
Tour Routes
(Top to Bottom)
- 351 m: Space Capsule Sightseeing Floor
- 267 m: Revolving Sky Restaurant (buffet); dinner hours are especially busy
- 263 m: Main Observation Deck (second sphere); offers a 360° panoramic view of Shanghai. During peak seasons, queues may last 2–3 hours
- 259 m: Fully transparent glass skywalk overlooking the Huangpu River
- 90 m: Sightseeing Corridor
- 78 m: (first sphere) Immersive multimedia show and some amusement facilities (these are quite common and not particularly popular)
- 0 m: (Ground floor) Shanghai Urban History Development Exhibition Hall
Photos
Each spring, around early March, white magnolias burst into bloom, changing almost day by day. Their peak viewing period lasts about a week. During this time, the Oriental Pearl Tower framed alongside the magnolias attracts many photography enthusiasts.
When the magnolias bloom, even the air feels gentle. Without the need for green leaves, they simply stand there—quietly white, softly fragrant.
Basic Information
- Ticket Price: 399 RMB (includes access to most levels; discounts may be available). Other ticket tiers offer limited access at lower prices—refer to online booking platforms for details.
- Discount Policy:
- Children under 1.3 m or aged 6 and below: eligible for child tickets
- Children under 1 m: free admission
- Seniors aged 70 and above: eligible for senior tickets with valid ID
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Online Booking: Official WeChat account “东方明珠”
- Customer Service: +86-21-58792888
- Official Website: Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower
Transportation Options
Take the metro to Lujiazui Station, exit from Exit 1. The tower is directly across the street.
Important Notes
- Tickets are valid only on the day of purchase and expire afterward.
- Once you exit the tower via the elevator, re-entry is not permitted.
- During holidays (especially Labor Day, summer vacation, National Day, and Spring Festival), visitor numbers are high. It is recommended to enter within the first hour after opening (9:00–10:00 AM).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a full visit take?
Approximately 2 to 3 hours.