Shanghai Tower

The Shanghai Tower is an architectural and engineering marvel that soars above the Lujiazui financial district in Shanghai. Completed in 2015 and officially opened in 2016, the tower was designed by Gensler with a design team led by Jun Xia. At 632 meters (2,073 feet) tall, it is currently the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world, surpassed only by the Burj Khalifa. Its distinctive twisting form reduces wind loads on the building by 24%, allowing for a more lightweight and efficient structure. The tower’s design comprises nine cylindrical sections stacked atop one another, enclosed by an inner glass façade and a spiraling outer skin, creating a stunning double-layer curtain wall that enhances thermal performance and gives the building its iconic shape.

Sustainability is at the core of Shanghai Tower’s design. It incorporates numerous green technologies, including rainwater harvesting, wind turbines, and a highly efficient heating and cooling system, earning it LEED Platinum certification. The building hosts office spaces, retail areas, cultural facilities, and the world’s highest observation deck, offering unparalleled views of the Shanghai skyline. The tower serves as a symbol of Shanghai’s rapid modernization and ambition to be a global city leader in innovative, sustainable high-rise design.

Interesting Facts

• Height: 632 meters (2,073 feet), 128 floors.
• Location: Lujiazui financial district, Pudong, Shanghai, China.
• Architect: Gensler (lead designer Jun Xia).
• Completion: 2015 (completed), 2016 (opened).
• Architectural Innovation: A twisting shape that reduces wind load and a double curtain wall that improves energy efficiency.
• Sustainability: LEED Platinum certification, featuring rainwater collection and wind turbines.
• Record Features: Home to the world’s highest observation deck and some of the world’s fastest elevators.

Best Time of Year to Visit

The best time to visit Shanghai is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, with clear skies perfect for enjoying the city’s skyline from the observation deck.

• Spring (March–May): The weather is warm and flowers are in bloom, making it a beautiful time to explore the city.
• Summer (June–August): The weather is hot and humid, with high temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). There is also a rainy season from June to July.
• Autumn (September–November): This is often considered the best time to visit, with cool, dry, and sunny days.
• Winter (December–February): Winters are cold and damp, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing.

Other Attractions in the Area

The Shanghai Tower is located in a vibrant area with many other notable attractions, particularly in the Lujiazui financial district and across the Huangpu River in the Bund.

• Oriental Pearl Tower: This iconic TV and radio tower is a symbol of Shanghai’s modernity and offers its own observation decks.
• The Bund: Located across the river, this historic waterfront promenade is lined with colonial-era European buildings and offers a stunning view of the Pudong skyline.
• Shanghai World Financial Center: Another of the “Three Giants” skyscrapers in the area, known for its unique “bottle opener” shape.
• Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar: A classical Chinese garden from the Ming Dynasty, featuring beautiful pavilions, rockeries, and a bustling traditional market.

Top Accommodations Nearby

The area around the Shanghai Tower offers a variety of luxury hotels, many with breathtaking views of the city.

• J Hotel Shanghai Tower: A luxury hotel located within the Shanghai Tower itself, offering premium accommodations and a high-end experience. Prices start from approximately $469 USD per night.
• Grand Hyatt Shanghai: A luxury 5-star hotel located in the nearby Jin Mao Tower, known for its spectacular atrium and views. Prices start from approximately $187 USD per night.
• The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong: This 5-star hotel is located in the Shanghai IFC and offers exceptional service and panoramic views of the Bund. Prices start from approximately $130 USD per night.
• IFC Residence: A high-end serviced apartment complex offering spacious and luxurious accommodations. Prices start from approximately $118 USD per night.
• Pudong Shangri-La, Shanghai: This upscale hotel offers rooms with views of either the Bund or the Lujiazui financial district. Prices start from approximately $182 USD per night.