Shanghai Tower is not just China`s tallest building, but an engineering marvel that embodies cutting-edge technology and bold architectural design. Standing at 632 meters with 128 floors, it ranks as the third tallest skyscraper in the world, behind Dubai`s Burj Khalifa (828 m) and Kuala Lumpur`s Merdeka 118 (678.9 m).
Construction History: How the Giant Was Built
• 2010–2016 – Construction period (officially opened in 2017).
• Architect: American firm Gensler (twisting design reduces wind load by 24%).
• Location: Lujiazui financial district (next to Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center).
• Sustainable features: Double-skin façade reduces energy consumption, and wind turbines generate electricity.
What’s Inside?
• Offices (including headquarters of multinational corporations).
• Five-star J Hotel (on the upper floors).
• Shopping areas and restaurants.
• Observation deck (on the 118th and 119th floors).
Observation Deck: Shanghai Views from 546 Meters
The main observation deck (at 546 m) is one of the highest in the world.
What makes it special?
• High-speed elevators (18 m/s – among the fastest globally).
• Glass floor (guaranteed thrills).
• 360-degree panoramic views of Shanghai, including the Oriental Pearl Tower and Huangpu River.
• Multimedia installations about the city’s history.
Are there higher observation decks? Yes, but not in Shanghai Tower.
• Burj Khalifa (Dubai) – 555 m (At The Top Sky).
• Merdeka 118 (Malaysia) – 566 m.
Comparison with Other Skyscrapers
1. Burj Khalifa, 828 m, Dubai, UAE, 2010
2. Merdeka 118, 678.9 m, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 2023
3. Shanghai Tower, 632 m, Shanghai, China, 2017
4. Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower, 601 m, Mecca, Saudi Arabia, 2012
5. Ping An Finance Centre, 599 m, Shenzhen, China, 2017
Is It Worth Visiting?
• Yes, if you want breathtaking views of Shanghai.
• Best time: Evening (city lights).
• Tip: Buy tickets online to skip long queues.
Shanghai Tower is not just a skyscraper—it’s a symbol of China’s ambition, and visiting it will be one of the most unforgettable experiences of your trip to Shanghai.
