Shanghai Tower (The Top of Shanghai) Ticket Booking

Imagine soaring up to the dizzying heights of China’s tallest skyscraper, where the entire city of Shanghai unfolds beneath your feet. This review takes a close look at the Shanghai Tower ticket experience, a popular choice for travelers eager to see Shanghai from above without the hassle of long lines or confusing procedures.

One of the best parts? The ease of booking online means you can skip the ticket queues and head straight to enjoying the spectacular views. We love how straightforward the process is — a simple QR code scan at the entrance gets you inside quickly. The high-speed elevator zips you up at 59 feet (18 meters) per second, so before you know it, you’re gazing out at the sprawling cityscape.

However, some visitors note that the tower itself offers limited attractions beyond the view, and it can get crowded, especially during peak hours or holidays. So, while it’s an incredible vantage point, those looking for more interactive experiences might want to supplement their visit elsewhere.

This experience suits travelers who value convenience, breathtaking scenery, and a quick, no-fuss entry. If you’re after a smooth, memorable skyline experience in Shanghai, this ticket is a strong choice. Now, let’s explore everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

Key Points

• Pre-booked tickets make entry smooth and save waiting time at the tower.
• The fast elevator offers an exhilarating ride at 18m/sec, making the ascent quick and exciting.
• Spectacular panoramic views of Shanghai are the main highlight, especially from the top observation deck.
• Visitors can enjoy a nighttime light show on the exterior walls, adding a spectacular visual element.
• The experience is affordable at $40 per person, offering good value for the stunning vistas.
• The tower’s interior lacks extensive attractions, so it’s best combined with other activities in your itinerary.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

Booking and Entry Process

One of the standout features of this tour is how easy it is to secure tickets. You simply go online, book your spot, and receive a QR code that acts as your ticket. There’s no need to worry about waiting in long lines, which can be a real time-saver, especially during busy seasons. According to reviews, the check-in process is smooth — just show your QR code at the lobby during your designated time slot, and you’re in.

This straightforward process is especially helpful for travelers on tight schedules or those who prefer to plan ahead. The tickets are confirmed instantly, and children under 100cm (3.28 ft) or younger than three are free, making it family-friendly.

The Elevator Ride: A Thrilling Ascent

The elevator ride is a key part of the experience. Traveling at 59 feet (18 meters) per second, it’s one of the fastest in the world, making the ascent feel more like a thrill ride than a slow climb. We loved the feeling of the wind rushing past as the tower’s glass exterior whizzed upward.

Reviewers describe the ride as “impressionnant,” with some noting that ears may temporarily feel clogged due to the rapid change in altitude, which is common in such high-speed elevators. But the true highlight is the views from the top — the city’s skyline stretching as far as the eye can see.

The Observation Deck: Panoramic Views

Once at the top, you’re greeted with sweeping vistas of Shanghai’s iconic skyline. The expansive windows allow you to take in the sprawling cityscape, the Huangpu River, and the historic Bund area. Reviewers have described the view as “spectacular,” especially at night when the city lights sparkle in every direction.

Some visitors mention that the glass cleaning could be improved, as smudges or dirt can sometimes obscure the view. Still, the overall experience is breathtaking. During the day, you’ll see bustling streets, modern skyscrapers, and distant hills, while nighttime reveals a glittering city illuminated by countless lights and a light show on the exterior wall.

Additional Features and Tips

While the tower itself doesn’t host many attractions beyond the viewing platform, there’s a small food market outside where you can grab affordable snacks. Some reviewers appreciated the good value for money, noting the ticket price of $40 is reasonable given the spectacular views.

A few mentioned that visiting during off-peak hours (like early morning or weekday mornings) can help avoid crowds and give a more relaxed experience. The tower’s interior, as one reviewer noted, doesn’t offer much in terms of educational content, so if you’re looking for more context about Shanghai’s skyline or architecture, you might need to explore other local attractions.

What the Reviews Say

• Smooth Entry: “Check-in was smooth; just show the QR code and go,” reports one happy visitor.
• Great Views, Limited Extras: “Not much else to do besides enjoy the view,” mentions another, implying this is more about scenery than interactive exhibits.
• Breathtaking at Night: Many praise the night views, especially when the tower light show adds extra visual flair.
• Value for Money: Several reviewers felt the ticket price was justified by the quality of the experience.
• Weather Considerations: Noticeably, poor weather can obscure views, and the staff may advise against visiting if the sky is cloudy or rainy, which is worth considering when planning.
• Crowd Levels: During busy periods, expect to share the space with many others, but visiting early or during weekdays can make for a more peaceful experience.

Practical Details

Duration: Allow 1 to 3 hours, depending on whether you want to linger and take photos, or just enjoy the views. The elevator ride itself takes about a minute, but you’ll want some extra time for exploring the observation deck.

Price: $40 per person is reasonable, especially considering the fast elevator and sweeping views. Children under 3 years or below 100cm are free, making it family-friendly.

Booking: Most travelers book their tickets about 15 days in advance, which is smart during peak seasons. The process is fully online, and tickets are confirmed immediately.

Location & Access: The tower is conveniently located in the heart of Shanghai’s Pudong district, near public transportation options, making it easy to include in a day’s itinerary.

Additional Notes: No guided tours are included, so you’ll explore independently. If you’re interested in more detailed information about what you’re seeing, consider bringing a guidebook or audio guide.

The Sum Up

Visiting the Shanghai Tower with a pre-booked ticket offers a fantastic opportunity to see the city from a breathtaking vantage point without the hassle of long queues. The speedy elevator ride and panoramic views truly stand out as the highlights, making it a memorable part of any trip to Shanghai.

While the experience is primarily visual, it provides an excellent overview of the city’s skyline, which is especially stunning at night with the illuminated buildings and tower lighting displays. The value for money is evident, considering the convenience and spectacular scenery you get for $40.

This tour is perfect for travelers who prioritize convenience and stunning vistas and are happy exploring independently. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors eager to get a quick, impressive overview of Shanghai’s modern landscape. However, if you’re after a more interactive or educational experience, you might want to combine this with other local attractions.

FAQ

Can I buy tickets on the day of my visit?
While same-day tickets might be available, most travelers prefer to book about 15 days in advance to secure a spot, especially during busy seasons.

Do I need a guide for this visit?
No guides are included or necessary. The process is straightforward — just show your QR code at the entrance and enjoy your visit.

Is there a time limit for the visit?
You can stay as long as you like within the 1 to 3 hours suggested, but the entry is based on your booked time slot.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children under 100cm (3.28 ft) or under 3 years old can enter free of charge. Always check height restrictions if applicable.

What should I do if the weather is bad?
If the weather is poor, the staff may advise against visiting, as views can be obscured. Refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is there anything else to do at the tower besides viewing?
The tower’s interior doesn’t feature many attractions, but there are food markets outside, and the exterior night light show adds a visual spectacle.

In summary, the Shanghai Tower ticket experience delivers spectacular views, quick access, and good value, making it an ideal choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free skyline view in one of the world’s most exciting cities. Whether visiting during the day or at night, you’ll walk away with a new appreciation for Shanghai’s impressive urban skyline.