Shanghai Oriental Pearl Tower: 468m Observation Deck Tickets

Stand on Glass 259 Meters Above Shanghai's Skyline

You get timed-entry access to two observation decks on Shanghai's tallest structure: the 63-meter main floor for a full-city overview, and the 259-meter glass skywalk for the unobstructed drop-view. No queue, no negotiating entry times on the day — you choose your two-hour window when you book and walk straight in with your ID and phone number. A few hours total, suitable for all fitness levels, and the skyline views work just as well in daylight or after dark.

Step-by-step itinerary

Visit Oriental Pearl Tower observation decks

• Arrive at Oriental Pearl Tower
• Ride to main 63-meter viewing floor
• Explore 259-meter Suspended Viewing Corridor
• Enjoy 360-degree city skyline views
• View Huangpu River and famous landmarks
• Visit interactive exhibits inside tower
• Walk on glass-floored skywalk
• Take photos from high above city

The Experience

So you're standing in the elevator going up 468 meters and your ears pop a little, and then the doors open and there's just... the whole city spread out in every direction. The Oriental Pearl Tower observation decks give you two different heights to choose from — the main viewing floor at 63 meters if you want a solid overview, or the suspended glass corridor at 259 meters if you're the type who likes to feel the drop beneath your feet. Most people do both. The glass-floored skywalk is the thing everyone talks about afterward, that moment when you look down and there's nothing between you and the Huangpu River except transparent floor.

What makes this different from other tower visits is the timed-entry system. You pick your two-hour window when you book — say 9 to 11 in the morning, or 2 to 4 in the afternoon — and you walk straight to the ticket checkpoint without waiting in line. No standing around with a hundred other people trying to figure out which queue moves faster. You show your ID and the mobile number you used to book, and you're in. The tower itself has interactive exhibits scattered through the decks, and if you're into photography, the 360-degree views of the Bund, Lujiazui financial district, and the river are the kind of shots that actually look like postcards when you get home.

The whole thing takes a few hours if you're not rushing — most people spend an hour or so on each deck, take photos, maybe grab a drink from one of the cafes up there. Kids under 1.3 meters get a discounted ticket, and it's genuinely suitable for any fitness level since you're riding elevators the whole way up. Just make sure you arrive during your assigned time window; if you're late, the ticket becomes invalid, so it's worth showing up with a few minutes to spare.

What’s included

• Your ticket includes admission to the Oriental Pearl Tower observation decks — both the 63-meter main viewing floor and the 259-meter suspended glass corridor.
• Entry is timed to your selected two-hour window, so you skip the queue.
• Interactive exhibits and cafes are available on the decks.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearby

Operated by FawSha Travels

Is this one for you?Book this if you want Shanghai's best skyline views without spending your morning in a ticket line — the timed-entry system is what makes that possible, and it works the same whether you go at 9am or 4pm.

Traveler reviews

3.50★★★★★★★★★★

2 verified traveler reviews

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What's the difference between the two observation decks?

The main viewing floor at 63 meters gives you a panoramic overview of the city and river. The suspended glass corridor at 259 meters is higher and has a glass floor, so you see straight down — it's the more intense experience, and most visitors do both.

Do I have to wait in line?

No. Your ticket is timed to a specific two-hour window (like 9–11am or 2–4pm). You arrive during that window, show your ID and phone number at the checkpoint, and go straight up. No queue.

What happens if I'm late to my time slot?

The ticket becomes invalid. Arrive during your assigned two-hour window to use it.

Is there anything to do or eat up there?

Yes. There are interactive exhibits on the decks and cafes where you can buy drinks and snacks while you're up there.

How long does the whole visit take?

Most people spend a few hours total — roughly an hour on each deck, plus time for photos and the elevator rides. You can move faster if you want, or linger longer.

Can children go?

Yes. Children between 1 meter and 1.3 meters tall, or under 6 years old, qualify for a discounted children's ticket.

Do I need to bring anything?

Bring your ID card and the mobile phone number you used to book. These must match your order information to enter.

Is it accessible for people with limited mobility?

Yes, the tower is suitable for all fitness levels since you travel by elevator. There are no stairs required to reach the observation decks.