Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower Tickets (Two Sphere Tickets)

Your experience

Take in Shanghai’s skyline from three iconic levels, including the 259m glass skywalk and the city’s immersive history museum, in 2–3 hours.

Getting started

Arrive at the Oriental Pearl Tower’s main entrance, where you’ll pass through a security check and validate your ticket with your passport or ID. Elevators take you directly to the observation levels, with shoe covers provided for the glass walkway.

What to expect

This landmark, completed in 1994, stands 468 meters tall and is famed for its eleven-sphere design inspired by a Tang Dynasty poem. The tower anchors Pudong’s skyline and houses Shanghai’s most panoramic observation decks.

Features

• 263m main observation deck: Enjoy 360-degree views stretching up to 40km on clear days, with prime vantage points for cityscape photography.

• 259m outdoor glass skywalk: Walk 150 meters on transparent flooring, looking straight down at the Bund, Huangpu River, and bustling city life below.

• 90m lower sphere viewing corridor: Get close-up perspectives of the historic Bund and riverside architecture.

• Shanghai Municipal History Museum: Explore life-size 1920s street scenes, wax figures, and over 1,000 artifacts tracing Shanghai’s transformation, plan 1.5–2 hours here.

• 78m “Future Shanghai” multimedia show: Watch projection mapping and light displays that chart the city’s evolution into the future.

Know before you go

What to bring

• Bring a valid passport for ticket purchase and entry; Chinese nationals may use their ID card.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will be standing and walking for extended periods.

• Dress in layers, as observation decks—especially the outdoor skywalk and higher levels—can be colder and windier.

• Carry your booking confirmation (digital or printed) for smooth entry.

• Camera or smartphone for photos; note that window reflections may affect image quality.

What’s not allowed

• Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted inside the tower.

• Food and beverages, including alcoholic drinks, are not allowed.

• Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.

• Re-entry is not allowed once you exit the tower—plan your visit accordingly.

• Flash photography, tripods, and professional filming equipment are not allowed on observation decks.

• Smoking is strictly prohibited throughout the premises.

Accessibility

• The tower is stroller accessible throughout all main levels.

• Wheelchair users can access all observation decks, the glass walkway, and the museum via elevators, except for the highest viewing platform in the 351m Space Capsule, which requires stairs.

• Accessible restrooms are available on site.

• Staff are available to assist guests with mobility needs.

Additional information

• Views are weather-dependent; check the Air Quality Index (AQI) before visiting. Visibility is limited if AQI is above 150. October and April–May offer the clearest conditions.

• Morning fog usually clears by 10am–12pm; afternoons (2–5pm) typically have better visibility.

• Expect wait times of 15–30 minutes on weekday mornings and up to 1–3 hours on weekend afternoons during peak season.

• Online tickets allow you to skip the ticket counter queue.

• Shoe covers are provided and must be worn on the glass walkway.

• The complete experience can take 3.5–4.5 hours, especially if visiting the Space Capsule; plan accordingly.

• The Space Capsule closes 30 minutes before the tower’s closing time.

• Operating hours: Daily 8am–9:30pm (last entry 9pm).

• Best times for photography are clear afternoons (2–5pm) or sunset (6–7pm).

• Children under 7 may not enjoy the Space Capsule experience.

• Some attractions within the tower, such as the revolving restaurant, VR roller coaster, and certain dining options, are not included in standard tickets and require separate fees.

The Oriental Pearl Tower is a renowned TV tower and landmark situated in the Pudong district of Shanghai. Completed in 1994, its distinctive spheres and futuristic design make it a must-see attraction for travelers. The tower comprises multiple observation decks, a rotating restaurant, and various interactive exhibits, providing an immersive experience of Shanghai's modern pulse. The structure rises 468 meters high, making it one of the tallest towers in China. Guests can ascend via high-speed elevators to either the lower or upper observation levels, offering panoramic views that stretch across the cityscape and beyond. The tower's base features a shopping mall and entertainment venues, making it a comprehensive destination for sightseeing and leisure.

Booking your tickets online for the Oriental Pearl Tower ensures skip-the-line access, guaranteed entry, and convenient planning for your visit. Compare different ticket options and enjoy instant confirmation, making your sightseeing experience seamless and stress-free.

The Oriental Pearl Tower was designed by Shanghai Modern Architectural Design Group and constructed between 1991 and 1994. Its innovative design was inspired by traditional Chinese motifs and modern engineering principles. Upon completion, it symbolized China's rapid modernization and technological advancement. Over the years, the tower has undergone several upgrades, including the addition of glass floors and high-tech viewing platforms, to enhance visitor experience. It has hosted numerous cultural events and has become a symbol of Shanghai's skyline, attracting millions of tourists annually. The tower continues to evolve as a center for entertainment, observation, and cultural exchange, reflecting the dynamic growth of Shanghai itself.

Typically open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, with some variation on holidays. The observation decks close 30 minutes before the tower's closing time. It is advisable to check specific hours during peak seasons or holidays for accurate planning.

Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. The tower is especially stunning at sunset when the city lights begin to sparkle.

Inside the Oriental Pearl Tower, visitors can explore multiple observation decks at varying heights for different perspectives of Shanghai. The lower deck offers spectacular city views, while the higher decks provide a closer look at the skyline. The tower also features a free-hanging glass-bottom floor for an adventurous experience, interactive displays detailing Shanghai’s history, and a revolving restaurant for unique dining with panoramic views. Special exhibitions on the tower's construction and technological innovations are often available, enriching the visitor journey. For families, dedicated activity zones and multimedia exhibits make the visit engaging for all ages.

Visitors should arrive early to avoid lines and secure the best viewing times. Tickets include access to observation decks and exhibitions, but specific attractions like restaurants or special exhibits may require separate reservations. Check weather conditions as visibility can be affected by fog or rain. Photography is allowed, but flash usage should be minimized to preserve exhibits. Accessibility features are available for guests with mobility challenges.

Please adhere to safety instructions, do not lean on glass barriers, and maintain quietness inside the observation areas. Smoking, eating, and drinking are prohibited inside the tower for safety reasons. Children under a certain height may need supervision or restrictions on certain platforms. Security checks are conducted upon entry.

A visit to the Oriental Pearl Tower offers a unique blend of modern architecture, cultural insight, and stunning city views. It’s an essential part of experiencing Shanghai’s vibrant skyline, making it well worth the trip for travelers seeking memorable sights and a touch of innovation.

Easily reach the Oriental Pearl Tower by taking the Shanghai Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station, from where it is a short walk. Alternatively, bus routes and taxis are available for direct access.