Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower: The Complete Visitor Guide
Rising 468 meters above the Pudong skyline, the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower (东方明珠广播电视塔) is the building that defines Shanghai. Completed in 1994 and once the tallest structure in Asia, its distinctive silhouette of eleven spheres threaded along three massive columns has become the international symbol of modern China — appearing on postcards, in films, and in the memories of every traveler who has stood beneath it.
Book Ticket on Trip with big discount
But this is far more than a pretty tower. Inside, the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower houses multiple observation decks, a heart-stopping glass-bottomed skywalk suspended 259 meters in the air, a revolving restaurant that completes a full rotation every 90 minutes, and one of Shanghai’s most underrated museums — the Shanghai History Museum — hidden in its basement.
Whether you are a first-time visitor to Shanghai chasing the ultimate skyline photo, a family looking for an educational day out, or a couple planning a sunset dinner with a view, this guide covers everything you need to know for 2026: the exact ticket tiers, the best time to beat the crowds, how to survive the glass skywalk, and the ¥2 ferry trick that gives you the best exterior photo of the tower.
What Is the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower?
The Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower stands at No. 1 Century Avenue, Lujiazui, Pudong New Area, Shanghai — directly opposite the historic Bund across the Huangpu River. Designed by architect Jiang Huancheng, its unique form was inspired by a Tang Dynasty poem describing “pearls falling onto a jade plate.” The tower features eleven spheres of varying sizes strung along three enormous concrete columns, with the largest spheres housing observation decks, restaurants, and entertainment facilities.
At 468 meters (1,535 feet), it was the tallest structure in China upon completion and remained Asia’s tallest until Taipei 101 surpassed it in 2007. Today it ranks as Asia’s sixth-tallest and the world’s ninth-tallest TV tower, yet it remains Shanghai’s most internationally recognized landmark — far more iconic to global audiences than the taller but more generic Shanghai Tower.
The tower is a National 5A Tourist Attraction and functions as a working broadcasting facility, transmitting television and radio signals across the Shanghai region. For visitors, it offers a multi-level experience spanning from the basement museum to the 351-meter Space Capsule, with each level delivering a different perspective on one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Top 10 Things to Do & See
1. Walk the 259-Meter Transparent Glass Skywalk
The Suspended Viewing Corridor at 259 meters is the single most thrilling experience at the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower. This outdoor walkway features transparent glass floors and walls, allowing you to look straight down 259 meters to the riverside plaza below. The sensation of walking on air above Shanghai is unforgettable — and not for the faint of heart.
Height requirement: None, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Shoe covers: Provided free at the entrance to the skywalk to protect the glass.
2. See 360° Views from the 263-Meter Main Observation Deck
The main sightseeing floor at 263 meters inside the upper sphere offers panoramic views in every direction. To the west, you gaze across the Huangpu River at the colonial architecture of The Bund. To the east, the forest of Pudong skyscrapers stretches toward the horizon. On clear days, you can see for dozens of kilometers. Telescopes are available for close-up views (small fee required).
3. Visit the 351-Meter Space Capsule
The highest accessible point for visitors, the Space Capsule at 351 meters is a compact observation deck with space-themed exhibitions and VR experiences. While the view is not dramatically different from the 263-meter deck, the psychological thrill of being near the top of the tower makes it worthwhile for completionists. Access requires a Three-Sphere ticket.
4. Explore the Shanghai History Museum
Hidden in the basement of the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower, the Shanghai Municipal History Development Museum is one of the city’s best-kept secrets. This sprawling museum uses life-sized dioramas, wax figures, and authentic artifacts to trace Shanghai’s evolution from a small fishing village to a global metropolis. Highlights include recreated 1930s street scenes, vintage vehicles, and models of the city’s architectural development. It is included with all standard tickets and deserves at least 45 minutes.
5. Dine at the 267-Meter Revolving Restaurant
Located one floor above the main observation deck, the revolving restaurant completes a full 360-degree rotation every 90 minutes. You can enjoy a buffet lunch or dinner while the entire city slowly glides past your window. The food is decent but unremarkable — you are paying for the view and the experience. Reservations are essential, especially for dinner.
6. Experience the “Future Shanghai” Multimedia Show
At 78 meters, the “Future Shanghai” multimedia show uses projection mapping and immersive displays to visualize Shanghai’s urban development and future ambitions. It is a brief but visually impressive add-on included with standard tickets.
7. Visit the Lower Sphere at 90 Meters
The 90-meter lower sphere houses an indoor observation corridor and access to the outdoor “Roller Coaster” VR attraction — a virtual reality ride that simulates a high-speed journey through Shanghai’s skyline. This level is particularly popular with children and families.
8. See the 2026 AR Light Show
New for 2026, the tower hosts periodic augmented reality light shows that project dynamic visuals onto the tower’s spherical surfaces after dark. Check the official schedule before your visit — these shows are visible from across the river and create spectacular photo opportunities.
9. Walk Binjiang Avenue for the Best Exterior Shot
Most visitors look from the tower but never look at it properly. The Binjiang Avenue (滨江大道) riverside promenade directly behind the tower offers dramatic upward angles of the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower against the Pudong skyline. This is where local photographers come for the iconic “tower plus Shanghai Tower” composition.
10. Ride the High-Speed Elevator
The tower’s elevators travel at 7 meters per second, whisking visitors from ground level to the 263-meter observation deck in under 40 seconds. The ascent itself is part of the experience — watch the city shrink through the glass-paneled elevator shaft.
The Glass Skywalk: Everything You Need to Know
The 259-meter Transparent Glass Skywalk is the signature thrill of the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower and the experience most visitors remember above all others.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Height | 259 meters (850 feet) above ground |
| Structure | Outdoor circular walkway with glass floor and glass wall panels |
| Length | Approximately 150 meters around the sphere’s circumference |
| Safety | Structural glass rated for extreme loads; handrails on the inner side |
| Shoe covers | Free disposable covers provided to protect the glass |
Is it scary? For most visitors, the experience is thrilling but manageable. The glass is completely opaque when viewed from certain angles, so you can choose to look down or focus on the horizon. If you have a severe fear of heights, stick to the solid-floor sections of the 263-meter indoor deck. Children generally love it — many lie down on the glass for photos.
Best time for the skywalk:
- Sunset — The glass reflects golden light, and the views are at their most dramatic.
- Night — The city lights create a sea of color beneath your feet.
- Avoid midday in summer — The glass becomes hot, and the outdoor space offers no shade.
Tickets, Prices & Where to Buy
The Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower offers multiple ticket tiers. Booking online in advance is strongly recommended — gate queues on weekends regularly exceed 60 minutes.
| Ticket Type | Price (RMB) | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Two-Sphere (Standard) | ~¥199 | 263m observation deck, 259m glass skywalk, 90m lower sphere, 78m multimedia show, Shanghai History Museum |
| Two-Sphere + 351m Space Capsule | ~¥299–399 | All of the above + 351m Space Capsule |
| Two-Sphere + River Cruise | ~¥279 | Two-Sphere access + 45-minute Huangpu River cruise |
| Two-Sphere + Coca-Cola Buffet | ~¥258–358 | Two-Sphere access + buffet at Coca-Cola themed restaurant |
| Two-Sphere + Revolving Restaurant | ~¥368–418 | Two-Sphere access + lunch/dinner buffet at 267m revolving restaurant + priority elevator |
| Shanghai History Museum Only | ~¥35 | Museum entry only (no tower access) |
| Children (1m–1.3m or under 6) | ~¥99 | Two-Sphere access |
| Seniors (70+) | ~¥119 | Two-Sphere access |
| Under 1m | Free | Must be accompanied by ticketed adult |
Where to buy:
- Official WeChat Mini-Program: Search “东方明珠” — best for Chinese mobile users; QR code entry
- Trip.com Best for international visitors; English interface, accepts foreign credit cards
- Book Ticket on Trip with big discount
- On-site ticket hall: Available but not recommended due to long queues and potential sell-outs
Money-saving tip: The Two-Sphere ticket at ¥199 covers all the essential experiences — the observation deck, glass skywalk, museum, and multimedia show. The 351m Space Capsule adds ¥100+ but offers only marginally better views. Unless you are a completionist, the standard ticket is sufficient.
Queue-jumping tip: The revolving restaurant package includes priority elevator access, saving you 30–60 minutes of waiting. If you plan to dine anyway, this is excellent value.
How to Get to the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower
Option 1: Metro Line 2 (Recommended)
Take Shanghai Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station (陆家嘴站), Exit 1 or Exit 2. The Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower is approximately 5 minutes’ walk from the station — simply follow the signs or look up at the tower itself, which is visible from the metro exit.
- From People’s Square (city center): Line 2 direct, ~15 minutes
- From Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station: Line 2 direct, ~50 minutes
- From Shanghai Pudong Airport: Line 2 direct, ~70 minutes
Option 2: Ferry from The Bund
Take the Dongjin Line passenger ferry from Jinling East Road Pier on The Bund to Dongchang Road Pier in Pudong. The ride takes approximately 5 minutes and costs roughly ¥2. From Dongchang Road Pier, walk 10 minutes north to the tower. This is the most scenic and budget-friendly approach.
Option 3: Bus
Multiple bus routes stop near the tower:
- Routes 81, 82, 85, 795, 870 — alight at Lujiazui Ring Road / Fenghe Road
Option 4: Taxi / Didi
Set your destination to “Oriental Pearl Tower” (东方明珠电视塔) or No. 1 Century Avenue, Pudong. Most Shanghai drivers know this landmark instantly.
Avoid driving. Parking around Lujiazui is expensive and limited, and traffic is heavy throughout the day. The metro is faster, cheaper, and more reliable.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Crowds | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Mild, occasional rain | Moderate | Best overall — comfortable temperatures, manageable crowds |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Hot, humid, afternoon storms | Very High | Visit early morning or late afternoon; avoid midday |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Cool, dry, clear skies | Moderate–High | Best for photography — clearest visibility |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Cold, dry, occasional smog | Low | Shortest queues; check air quality before visiting |
Best daily schedule:
- 08:00–10:00 (Tuesday–Thursday) — Quietest window; arrive at opening for the shortest elevator waits
- 16:00–17:30 — Arrive late afternoon to catch sunset, blue hour, and night views in a single visit
- Avoid 11:00–15:00 on weekends — Peak crowds with 1–2 hour total wait times
2026 dates to avoid:
- Chinese New Year (late January / early February)
- Labor Day Golden Week (May 1–5)
- National Day Golden Week (October 1–7)
- Summer weekends (July–August)
Weather tip: The tower’s views are entirely dependent on air quality. Check the AQI (Air Quality Index) before visiting — anything below 100 offers decent visibility; above 150 means hazy, disappointing views. After rain is often the clearest.
Best Photo Spots: Inside & Outside the Tower
| Location | Best Time | Photo Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 263m observation deck (west side) | Sunset / blue hour | Frame The Bund’s colonial buildings with the Huangpu River |
| 259m glass skywalk | Night | Lie down on the glass for a “floating above the city” shot |
| Binjiang Avenue (behind tower) | Any time | Dramatic upward angle of the tower with Shanghai Tower behind |
| The Bund promenade | 19:00–20:00 | Classic postcard shot — tower framed against Pudong skyline |
| Lujiazui Ring Road pedestrian bridge | Blue hour | Elevated angle with traffic light trails |
| Huangpu River ferry | Sunset | Mid-river shot of the tower from the water |
| Revolving restaurant | Night | Long exposure of city lights through the rotating windows |
Photography tips:
- Tripods are prohibited on the observation decks and skywalk — security will intervene
- A polarizing filter helps cut through haze on the observation deck
- Night photography on the glass skywalk is challenging due to reflections; press your lens directly against the glass to eliminate glare
- Drones are strictly prohibited in Lujiazui — this is a no-fly zone
Dining: Revolving Restaurant & Coca-Cola Buffet
267-Meter Revolving Restaurant
- Cuisine: International buffet (Chinese, Western, Japanese)
- Rotation: Full 360° every 90 minutes
- Price: ~¥368 lunch / ~¥418 dinner (includes tower access + priority elevator)
- Reservation: Essential; book online or call ahead
- Verdict: The food is average — you are paying for the view and the experience. Best for special occasions.
Coca-Cola Themed Restaurant
- Location: Lower level of the tower
- Cuisine: Casual buffet with Coca-Cola branding
- Price: ~¥258–358 with Two-Sphere ticket bundle
- Verdict: Better value than the revolving restaurant for families with children; more relaxed atmosphere.
Budget alternative: Eat at one of the many restaurants in the Super Brand Mall (正大广场) across the street, then visit the tower for views only.
Nearby Attractions & The Perfect Lujiazui Day
The Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower sits at the center of Lujiazui, Shanghai’s financial district. You can easily combine it with multiple world-class attractions into a single day.
Recommended full-day route:
- Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower (08:30–11:30) — Arrive at opening; observation decks, glass skywalk, and museum
- Shanghai Tower Observation Deck (12:00–14:00) — Walk 500 meters to the world’s second-tallest building; 561-meter observation deck
- Lunch at Super Brand Mall (14:00–15:30) — Food court and restaurants across from the tower
- Shanghai World Financial Center or Jin Mao Tower (16:00–17:30) — Alternative skyscraper views for comparison
- Binjiang Avenue riverside walk (17:30–18:30) — Sunset and golden hour photography
- Ferry to The Bund (18:30–19:00) — ¥2 river crossing
- The Bund at night (19:00–21:00) — See the tower illuminated from across the river
Alternative half-day route (evening only):
- The Bund (17:00–18:00) — Sunset walk
- Ferry to Pudong (18:00–18:15)
- Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower (18:30–20:30) — Night views from the glass skywalk
- Dinner in Lujiazui (20:30–22:00)
Related read:The Bund Shanghai: Complete 2026 Visitor Guide
Related read:Shanghai Disney Resort: Complete 2026 Guide
Practical Tips & Visitor Information
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | No. 1 Century Avenue, Lujiazui, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 200120 |
| Phone | +86-21-5879-1888 |
| Opening Hours | 09:00–21:00 daily (last entry 20:30) |
| Entry Fee | From ¥199 (Two-Sphere); see full ticket table above |
| Nearest Metro | Line 2 Lujiazui Station, Exit 1 or 2 (5-minute walk) |
| Best For | First-time visitors, families, photographers, architecture lovers |
| Facilities | Toilets, gift shops, luggage storage, ATMs, baby care rooms |
| Accessibility | Elevators to all observation levels; wheelchair accessible |
| Wi-Fi | Free public Wi-Fi available |
What to bring:
- Passport or ID — required for ticket verification (must match booking name)
- Portable charger — navigation and photography drain batteries quickly
- Light jacket — the 259m outdoor skywalk can be windy and cool even in summer
- Comfortable shoes — you will queue standing and walk extensively
- Cash or mobile payment — for telescopes, snacks, and souvenirs
What to avoid:
- Visiting without checking the AQI — smog ruins the experience
- Buying tickets on-site during weekends — queues exceed 60 minutes
- Bringing large bags — security screening is strict; use entrance lockers
- Visiting during Golden Week unless you enjoy 2–3 hour waits
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How tall is the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower?
The Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower stands at 468 meters (1,535 feet), making it the world’s ninth-tallest TV tower and Asia’s sixth-tallest. It was the tallest structure in China from 1994 until 2007.
How much are tickets for the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower?
Standard Two-Sphere tickets cost approximately ¥199 and include access to the 263m observation deck, 259m glass skywalk, 90m lower sphere, 78m multimedia show, and the Shanghai History Museum. Three-Sphere tickets with the 351m Space Capsule cost ¥299–399. Children between 1m–1.3m pay roughly ¥99, and children under 1m enter free.
Is the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower worth visiting?
Yes. Despite being older than newer skyscrapers like Shanghai Tower, the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower remains Shanghai’s most iconic landmark. The combination of the glass skywalk, the included history museum, and the unbeatable postcard views of The Bund make it excellent value. If you only visit one tower in Shanghai, this is the most culturally significant choice.
How do I get to the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower from The Bund?
Take the Dongjin Line passenger ferry from Jinling East Road Pier to Dongchang Road Pier for approximately ¥2 — a 5-minute scenic crossing. From there, walk 10 minutes north to the tower. Alternatively, take Metro Line 2 from East Nanjing Road Station to Lujiazui Station (2 stops, ~5 minutes).
What is the best time to visit the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower?
Autumn (September–November) offers the clearest skies and most comfortable weather. For the best daily experience, arrive at 08:30 opening on a Tuesday–Thursday to avoid crowds, or visit at 16:30–17:00 to catch sunset, blue hour, and night views in a single trip.
Is the glass skywalk scary?
The 259-meter glass skywalk is thrilling but safe. The structural glass is rated for extreme loads, and handrails line the inner edge. Most visitors, including children, find it exciting rather than terrifying. If you have a severe fear of heights, you can enjoy the 263-meter indoor observation deck instead, which has solid floors.
How long should I spend at the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower?
Plan for 2 to 3 hours for a standard visit covering the observation decks, glass skywalk, and history museum. If you add the revolving restaurant or Space Capsule, budget 3.5 to 4 hours.
Can I visit the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower and Shanghai Tower on the same day?
Yes. The two towers are approximately 500 meters apart — a 5-minute walk. Many visitors do both: start at the Oriental Pearl in the morning (shorter queues, included museum), then walk to Shanghai Tower for the higher observation deck and a late lunch at the mall below.
Is there a dress code for the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower?
No formal dress code, but wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket for the outdoor skywalk, which can be windy. Avoid skirts on the glass skywalk if you are concerned about the transparent floor.
Are there restaurants inside the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower?
Yes. The 267-meter revolving restaurant offers international buffet dining with 360° rotating views. The Coca-Cola themed restaurant provides a more casual buffet option. Both require reservations and are priced as packages with tower entry.