Shanghai Tower (The Top of Shanghai) Ticket Booking

Planning to see the skyline of Shanghai from the tallest building in China? You’ve come to the right place. Although we haven’t personally clocked the elevator ride or gazed out from the top ourselves, the reviews and detailed information paint a clear picture of what to expect. It’s an experience many travelers find memorable, but like all things, it comes with some considerations.

What we love about this tour is the convenience of pre-booking, the spectacular panoramic views, and the quick elevator ride that whisks you to dizzying heights in just seconds. The fact that the process is straightforward—show your QR code and enjoy—is a huge plus, especially during busy times when lines can be long elsewhere.

However, a point to keep in mind is that the tower offers limited activities beyond the viewing deck. If you’re after a deep dive into architecture or interactive exhibits, you might find the experience somewhat light. Still, for those wanting a stress-free, awe-inspiring vista of Shanghai, this tour hits the mark.

It’s a perfect choice for travelers who value easy access to top sights, want value for money, and appreciate stunning skyline views. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a skyline enthusiast, the Shanghai Tower is likely to impress.

Key Points

• Hassle-Free Entry: Pre-book your tickets online to skip long lines and simply show your QR code at the entrance.
• Super Fast Elevator: Travel at 59 feet (18 meters) per second — an experience in itself.
• Spectacular Views: Enjoy sweeping vistas of Shanghai’s skyline and the iconic Bund area.
• Limited Inside Activities: Beyond the view, there’s not much to do inside, but the experience is still visually stunning.
• Great for Convenience: Near public transportation, making it easy to include in your city itinerary.
• Cost-Effective: At $40 per person, it offers good value for a top-tier attraction with minimal fuss.

The Experience Breakdown

Booking and Arrival

Booking your Shanghai Tower tickets is straightforward and highly recommended. Most travelers book about 15 days in advance, especially during peak seasons. The process is entirely online, with a QR code sent to your email. During your visit, you’ll just show your QR code at the entrance—no need for guides or additional tickets, saving you valuable time and effort.

This ease of access is confirmed by numerous users, with one reviewer mentioning, “Smooth check-in process… It is sufficient to show the QR code in the lobby during the selected time slot.” This efficient system makes it suitable for travelers who dislike waiting or complicated procedures.

The Elevator Ride

Once inside, prepare for a ride that’s as much a highlight as the views themselves. The high-speed elevator zips you up at 59 feet (18 meters) per second—fast enough to make your ears pop and your stomach flip if you’re not used to such rapid ascents. Expect the ride to take just about 40 seconds to reach the top, giving you a thrilling start to your experience.

Several reviews, including one praising the speed, say, “Impressionant au niveau de la rapidité avec laquelle nous montons les 800 m de haut,” highlighting how quick and efficient the ascent is. This rapid climb enhances the anticipation and sets a tone of modern engineering marvel.

The Observation Deck

Reaching the top, you’re greeted with panoramic views of Shanghai’s skyline, the Huangpu River, and the bustling city below. Reviewers universally agree that the vistas are spectacular. One shared, “The view is spectacular!!! Do not leave Shanghai without going up there!” This confirms that the primary draw is undoubtedly the breathtaking scenery.

However, some noted that window cleanliness could be improved, as one reviewer mentioned that “the windows weren’t very clean, which detracted from the experience.” Still, the views were described as memorable enough to outweigh minor issues.

Nighttime Light Show

A special note for evening visitors: the tower’s exterior wall lights up with impressive light displays at night, adding a layer of visual excitement to your visit. If timing allows, experiencing the tower after dark can be especially rewarding, offering a dazzling backdrop for photos.

Additional Inside Features

Unlike some towers that feature interactive exhibits or detailed educational displays, Shanghai Tower offers mostly the view itself. One reviewer expressed disappointment, saying, “There wasn’t a great deal to do—comparable buildings provide more information about what you can see,” implying that the experience is primarily about the scenery rather than interactive content.

Food and Souvenirs

After your visit, you might find small food markets or souvenir stalls on the way out, offering inexpensive snacks and memorabilia. These are often praised as “very good and affordable,” perfect for a quick refresh or a memento of your trip.

The Value of the Experience

At $40 per person, the ticket price reflects a good value for the convenience and the stunning views you get. The fact that children under 100cm (about 3.28 feet) or under 3 years old can enter free makes it even more family-friendly.

Considering the fast, hassle-free entry and the memorably expansive views, this experience is well worth the cost, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a straightforward, stress-free sightseeing option. The reviews consistently underscore the quality of the view as the main highlight, with many describing it as “spectacular” and “unforgettable.”

The Experience in Practice

Many visitors like to go early in the morning or before sunset to avoid crowds and see the city in different lights. One reviewer mentioned, “We went mid-morning before the travelers, which was great,” suggesting that timing can significantly affect your experience.

The tower isn’t overly crowded, especially during less busy hours, allowing you to roam freely and take in the scenery at your own pace. Still, during peak times or holidays, expect more visitors and a busier atmosphere.

Practical Tips

• Book at least 15 days ahead to secure your preferred time slot.
• Show your QR code at the entrance for quick access.
• Consider visiting early morning or late evening for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
• Keep in mind that inside activities are limited—the main draw is the view.
• For the best photos, arrive when lighting is softer, like at sunrise or sunset.
• Children under 3 travel free, making it an economical option for families.

Who Should Visit?

This tour appeals most to view lovers, first-time visitors, and those wanting an easy, no-fuss experience. It’s ideal if you want breathtaking cityscapes without a complicated tour or lengthy wait.

If you’re after detailed explanations of what you’re seeing or interactive exhibits, you might find this experience a bit sparse. However, for pure visual impact, it’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Do I need a guide to visit Shanghai Tower?
No, the ticket includes entry, and you only need to show your QR code at the entrance. There’s no guide service included or necessary for a smooth visit.

How long does the visit typically last?
Most visitors spend between 1 to 3 hours, mainly enjoying the views and taking photos at their own pace.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children under 100cm (3.28ft) or less than 3 years old can enter for free. The experience is generally kid-friendly, especially for the spectacular views.

Are there any transportation options nearby?
Yes, the tower is near public transportation, making it convenient to include in your city itinerary.

What is the best time of day to visit?
Many recommend early morning or late evening to catch the sunrise or sunset, and to avoid larger crowds.

Can I cancel my tickets if my plans change?
Yes, the tickets are fully refundable if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled time, with free cancellation available.

Final Thoughts

The Shanghai Tower ticket offers a remarkably straightforward way to access some of the most stunning views of Shanghai’s skyline. The speedy elevator ride sets the tone for a modern, efficient experience, while the breathtaking vistas make it worth every penny. If you prefer a hassle-free visit with minimal waiting and enjoy observing the city from a high vantage point, this tour is a solid choice.

While it may lack in interactive features or inside activities, the visual feast of Shanghai from above continues to draw visitors year after year. It’s especially suited for travelers eager for a quick, memorable highlight of their trip.

For those who value convenience, affordability, and a jaw-dropping view, the Shanghai Tower tour ticks all the right boxes. Just remember to book in advance, pick your timing carefully, and enjoy the view that billions of dollars and engineering prowess have crafted—truly a sight to see.