Planning to visit the Oriental Pearl Tower? Discover how to buy tickets, the best times to avoid crowds, and which observation deck offers the most stunning views of Shanghai's skyline.
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Last updated: 2026-04
On-site notes & editorial review
Online booking may be required
Visit the Shanghai Municipal History Museum at the tower's base.
Looking for a hotel near the Oriental Pearl Tower? This guide compares luxury, mid-range, and budget options in Pudong and across the river in Puxi, with insider tips on views, transport, and hidden gems.
Aquarium
Iconic Landmark
Skyscraper
Skyscraper
Waterfront Views
Skyscraper
Architecture
Historic Garden
Recent Reviews
It was fine, but I wouldn't say it's worth the hype. The observation deck is crowded and you end up having to squeeze through people just to get a decent photo. The glass floor is fun for about two minutes. The Shanghai History Museum downstairs was actually more interesting than the tower itself. For the money, I'd rather spend time exploring the Bund or a local food market.
Came here on a whim during a layover and it turned out to be one of the highlights of my trip. The elevator ride is super fast and the 360-degree view really gives you a sense of how massive Shanghai is. I especially enjoyed the little museum at the base that shows old model houses and history. Great value for the combo ticket.
My kids (8 and 11) loved the virtual reality roller coaster and the history of Shanghai exhibit. The views are incredible, but we went on a hazy day so it wasn't as clear as we'd hoped. The staff were friendly and helped us navigate the different levels. Overall a solid experience, just make sure to book online to save some time.
Honestly, I was a bit let down. The queues were insane even on a weekday, and once you get inside it's just packed with tourists pushing for photos. The exhibits felt outdated and there's not much to do besides look out the window. For the ticket price, I expected more interactivity or maybe a guided tour. It's okay if you've never seen a tall building before, but I'd skip it next time.
Went up to the observation deck around sunset and the view of the Pudong skyline was absolutely breathtaking. The glass floor section gave me a little adrenaline rush, but it's totally safe. The revolving restaurant upstairs is a bit pricey, but the food was surprisingly decent. Definitely a must-do when in Shanghai!
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