Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower with Huangpu River Cruise (Two Sphere Tickets with Huangpu River Cruise)

Your experience

Experience Shanghai’s skyline from 263m above and at river level: two perspectives, one ticket, and exclusive savings.

Getting started

Begin at the Oriental Pearl Tower’s main entrance, where your ticket grants access to the observation decks and museum. After exploring the tower, walk two minutes to the adjacent cruise terminal; check in 15 minutes before your scheduled Huangpu River departure.

What to expect

Opened in 1994, the Oriental Pearl Tower is a symbol of Shanghai’s rapid transformation, rising 468 meters above Pudong. Its unique spheres and panoramic decks offer a sweeping view of both historic and modern cityscapes.

Features

• 263m main observation deck: Enjoy 360° views across Shanghai, including the Bund and Pudong’s skyscrapers, ideal for cityscape photography.

• 259m outdoor glass walkway: Step onto a transparent, circular corridor for a thrilling look straight down at the city below.

• 90m lower sphere viewing corridor: Get close-up perspectives of the Bund’s historic riverfront architecture.

• Shanghai Municipal History Museum: Explore interactive exhibits tracing Shanghai’s evolution from fishing village to global metropolis.

• 45-minute Huangpu River cruise: Glide between 1920s Bund buildings and 21st-century towers, with English and Chinese commentary highlighting each landmark.

• Nightly light show (optional): Time your cruise to 8:30pm to watch the tower’s synchronized LED display from the water, a full-tower spectacle.

• Flexible scheduling: Visit the tower and cruise on the same day or separate days to suit your plans and the weather.

Know before you go

What to bring

• Bring your original passport for both tower entry and cruise check-in; this is mandatory for all guests.

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

• Bring layers or a light jacket to accommodate changing weather, especially for outdoor observation decks and the cruise’s open-air sections.

• Ensure your phone or camera is fully charged for photos.

What’s not allowed

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

• Outside food and drinks are not allowed; food and beverages are available for purchase on the cruise.

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

• Smoking, alcohol, and illegal substances are strictly prohibited on the premises and during the cruise.

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

Accessibility

• The Oriental Pearl Tower is fully accessible by elevator, with accessible restrooms available.

• The cruise features a boarding ramp for wheelchair users; however, access to the upper outdoor deck may be limited for guests with mobility needs. Please confirm accessibility requirements when booking.

Additional information

• Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled cruise departure time.

• The cruise terminal is adjacent to the Oriental Pearl Tower base, approximately a 2-minute walk.

• Tower and cruise can be experienced on the same day or on separate days, check your ticket’s validity period.

• No skip-the-line benefit is included for tower entry with this ticket; queues can be long, especially on weekends (1–3 hours). Weekday mornings are less crowded.

• The best months for clear views are October and April–May; check air quality and weather forecasts before your visit.

• Shoe covers are provided for the glass walkway at the tower.

• Food and drinks are not included but can be purchased on the cruise.

• Access to the 351m Space Capsule, revolving restaurant, Coca-Cola Happy Restaurant, and VR Roller Coaster is not included with this ticket.

• Transportation between the tower and cruise terminal is not provided but is a short walk.

• Children under 1m may enter free of charge but must be accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket.

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.