Shanghai Tower rises 632 metres above Lujiazui in Pudong, with an observation deck on the 118th floor and views across the city. From up there, you can look over the Huangpu River, the Bund and Pudong’s cluster of skyscrapers. The ride in the high-speed elevator takes less than a minute. The tower’s twisting profile is part of its design, which also includes a double-layer glass facade intended to reduce heat loss. Go when the air is clear to give the skyline the best chance of coming into view.
The 118th-floor observation deck
The public observation deck is on the 118th floor, 546 metres above the ground. Its position gives you a broad view over Shanghai, including Lujiazui’s skyscrapers, the Huangpu River and the Bund across the water. Views depend on visibility, so choose a clear day if seeing the city from above is your main reason for visiting.
A high-speed elevator carries visitors to the observation level in less than a minute. The tower also has a sightseeing area on the 119th floor, mentioned in some descriptions of the visit. The 118th floor is the consistent reference point for the public observation deck.
A twisting tower in Lujiazui
At 632 metres, Shanghai Tower is China’s tallest building. Its gently spiralling exterior rises above Lujiazui, alongside other major towers such as the Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center. The shape is more than a visual feature: its twist is designed to reduce wind resistance and help the structure cope with typhoon winds.
The building has 128 floors and combines office space with shops, entertainment venues, a conference centre, a hotel and sky lobbies. Its nine interior cylindrical sections sit within two layers of glass. The double-skin facade is part of the tower’s energy-saving design.
Planning your visit
Set aside around two hours for the visit, including time for the lift and observation deck. Queues can affect how quickly you reach the top, so leave room in your schedule, especially if you want to catch the changing light near sunset. One travel tip mentions combo tickets available at the Bund sightseeing tunnel as a way to avoid queues; check what the ticket includes before buying.
The tower is at 501 Yincheng Road in Lujiazui, Pudong. A metro station is adjacent, so public transport is a straightforward option. If the air is hazy or clouded over, the city view may be limited; checking visibility before setting out can help you decide whether to go up that day.
FAQ
Where is Shanghai Tower?
It is at 501 Yincheng Road in Lujiazui, Pudong, Shanghai. A metro station is adjacent to the tower.
Which floor is the observation deck on?
The public observation deck is on the 118th floor, 546 metres above the ground.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow about one to two hours for the visit. Queues for the lifts can affect the timing.
When is a good time to visit the observation deck?
Around sunset can give you daylight and evening views in one visit. Choose a clear day for the best chance of seeing the city.
