Shanghai Tower

Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China and the second-tallest in the world, a 632-metre spiral of glass that twists 120 degrees as it rises from the Lujiazui financial district. Completed in 2015, its corkscrew form is not just for looks — the twist reduces wind loads on the supertall structure. Together with the neighbouring Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center, it completes the trio of giants that, with the Oriental Pearl Tower, defines the modern Shanghai skyline.

What to see

The headline draw is the observation deck on the 118th floor at 546 metres — among the highest in the world — reached by some of the fastest elevators ever built, which climb at up to 20 metres per second and take barely a minute. From the top, a 360-degree panorama spreads over the whole city, the snaking Huangpu River and, on clear days, far into the surrounding delta. A café and exhibition space sit on the upper floors, and the building's double-skin glass facade encloses sky gardens and atriums worth a look on the way up.

Opening hours

The observation deck is generally open daily from about 08:30 to 21:30, with last entry around 20:30. Visibility is the key variable — check the weather before you go.

Tickets

A standard 118th-floor ticket is roughly ¥180, with combination and fast-track options costing more. Tickets carry timed entry slots, so book online in advance and arrive within your window, especially in peak season.

Getting there

Take Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui station; the tower is a signposted walk through the Lujiazui pedestrian network, alongside the Oriental Pearl Tower and Jin Mao Tower.

Best time to visit

Go on a clear day — haze can flatten the view from this height. Late afternoon lets you watch the city shift from day to night from 546 metres, but it is also the busiest slot, so reserve a timed ticket ahead.