The Oriental Pearl TV Tower
Standing at a towering height of 468 meters (1,536 feet), the Oriental Pearl TV Tower is not only the tallest TV tower in Asia but also the third tallest in the world. It ranks behind the 553.3-meter-high CN Tower in Toronto, Canada, and the 540-meter-high Ostankino Tower in Moscow, Russia. Located in the heart of Pudong’s Lujiazui district, the tower has become a symbol of Shanghai, drawing both locals and tourists alike. Its unique design, featuring 15 spheres of varying sizes at different heights, creates a striking and futuristic appearance.
The tower's design is said to be inspired by a famous Chinese poetic line, "large and small pearls dropping onto a jade plate," evoking an image of pearls scattered across a jade surface. From its observation deck, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the bustling city, the Huangpu River, and beyond. The revolving restaurant and the expansive sightseeing platform can accommodate up to 1,600 people, offering an unparalleled experience in the sky.
Construction of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower began in 1992, with an initial investment of 50 million Yuan from the government. An additional 150 million Yuan and 10 million US Dollars were raised through bank loans from 44 banks. The tower was completed and opened to the public in 1994. It is affectionately known in China as "Two Dragons Playing with a Pearl," a reference to its striking design, with two massive spheres at the base and a large pearl-like structure at the top.
In 1995, the tower began broadcasting, hosting nine television channels and 10 FM radio stations. Over the years, it has become a major hub for media and telecommunications, in addition to being a top tourist destination.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower offers a wide range of amenities for visitors. At a height of 263 meters, the observation deck provides breathtaking views of Shanghai’s skyline. You can also visit the futuristic "Space City" exhibition hall and the Shanghai Municipal History Museum, located in the tower's base. This museum showcases the history of the city, including its transformation from a small fishing village to one of the world’s leading metropolises.
The large lower sphere of the tower features various attractions, including the "Science Fantasy City" and the "Recreational Palace." On a clear day, visitors can enjoy a view stretching all the way to the Yangtze River from the sightseeing hall. In addition to the observation areas, the tower houses a hotel with 25 elegant rooms in the smaller spheres, offering a relaxing place for visitors to stay.
At the very top of the tower is a large pearl-shaped structure, home to a rotating restaurant, shops, and additional viewing platforms. This iconic structure provides guests with a unique dining experience while enjoying Shanghai’s spectacular skyline.
Over the past decade, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower has welcomed more than 25 million visitors, including 295 overseas heads of state and dignitaries. This immense popularity has made it one of the most profitable TV towers globally. In fact, its annual revenue has exceeded that of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
According to the World Brand Lab, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower ranked 96th among the 500 most valuable Chinese brands, with a brand value of 5.148 billion Yuan (approximately 6.2 billion USD). It has consistently been one of the top 20 most influential Chinese brands on the global stage in recent years.
The tower’s combination of cutting-edge technology, breathtaking views, and cultural significance has made it a must-visit attraction in Shanghai and a proud symbol of China's modern achievements.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower stands as a monumental achievement in both architecture and engineering, symbolizing Shanghai's vibrant future while honoring its rich history. Whether you’re marveling at the panoramic views, exploring the interactive exhibits, or dining in the sky, the tower promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
