Where to Go to See the Shanghai Skyline?
Welcome to Shanghai! Take in the sight of the fusion of historic charm and futuristic vibe at The Bund. With soaring skyscrapers, visitors from worldwide get an unforgettable visual feast.
In this guide, I’ll lead you to the best spots to see the Shanghai city skyline. You can visit from iconic towers to riverside walkways. Read on!
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Shanghai Skyline Highlights
It's time for a visit to where you can see the most unforgettable views in Shanghai. For you, it's not only about the skyscrapers and these magnificent historic buildings. It's a journey that tells the story of rapid modernization! Check out the highlights of the Shanghai skyline before your trip:
- On one side of the Huangpu River, The Bund showcases elegant colonial-era buildings, whispering tales of the city's past.
- On the other side, Pudong’s futuristic towers, like the Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, reach for the high clouds, symbolizing China’s bold vision for the future.
- At night, the transformation is magical: the Shanghai skyline's night view becomes glittering lights, reflections, and energy!
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Top 6 Places for the Best View of the Shanghai Skyline
Top 1 Shanghai Skyline Attraction: The Bund
Without a doubt, The Bund is always the first choice! Walk through the historic buildings and hop on the riverbound walkway. A sight of panoramic Huangpu River view and the skyscrapers on the other side. Take a full sight of Pudong's towering skyline!
Credit: from Yiran Ding, Unsplash | The Bund
What to Expect:
- By day, take a stroll alongside the historic European-style buildings behind you and the modern architectural wonders ahead.
- At night, what a time to enjoy the lively Shanghai skyline with a synchronized light show that illuminates the skyscrapers in vibrant colors.
Pro Tips:
- Visit at dawn or dusk for stunning transitional light (blue hour and golden hour).
- Avoid weekends if possible; weekdays are less crowded.
- Don't forget to take a walk to nearby Nanjing Road, where you can buy souvenirs or local specialties.
4.8/5
6185 reviews
4/5
A night cruise on the Huangpu River offers beautiful scenery.
4/5
Everything went well and the site is worth the adventure
4/5
It's worth experiencing at least once, but on the expensive side.
5/5
Sometimes, the unfulfilled dream of a trip isn't a regret, but a gentle arrangement of fate. We always believe that only by setting foot on that land can we touch the scenery of our dreams. But when we stop and re-examine this longing, we realize that the most beautiful scenery has already blossomed in our hearts. In those days before setting off, we learned to converse with ourselves, reserving a peaceful space for our souls in a noisy world. Perhaps one morning, we will be awakened by birdsong outside our window and suddenly understand that every moment in life can be a journey. We begin to learn to find poetry in the ordinary and beauty in the trivial. This long-awaited trip, though unfulfilled, taught us how to feel the world with our hearts. It taught us that the true destination is not a coordinate on a map, but lies in our love and anticipation for life. Even if our feet haven't moved, our hearts are already on the road—this is the most precious gift that a long-awaited trip bestows upon us.
5/5
In this life, everyone should embark on a journey without reservation, to embody the phrase, "I wish to ride the wind and tread upon ten thousand miles of mountains." We are often bogged down by the trivialities of life, forgetting the vastness of the world. The meaning of travel lies in breaking down the boundaries of our lives, allowing our souls to touch the unknown grandeur. When you truly stand atop a mountain, letting the mountain wind tousle your hair, you will find that the obstacles you once thought insurmountable are but a drop in the ocean before the vastness of the land. When we travel, when we traverse mountains and valleys, we are actually undergoing a spiritual cleansing. With each step of the climb, we surpass our past selves; with each breath, we absorb the purest power of nature. To ride the wind and tread upon ten thousand miles—this is an ultimate love for life, a deepest embrace of the world.
Top 2 Shanghai Skyline Attraction: Shanghai Oriental Pearl Tower
You'll also not miss out on a visit to the Oriental Pearl Tower, one of Shanghai's most recognizable landmarks!
Credit: from LiYang, Unsplash | Oriental Pearl Tower
What to Expect:
- Multiple observation decks, including a clear glass-floored section at 259 meters for an exciting "skywalk" experience.
- Visit the Shanghai History Museum, located on the first floor of the Oriental Pearl Tower, where you can learn about the folk customs and habits of old Shanghai citizens.
- Have dinner at Revolving Restaurant, best for families & couples!
Pro Tips:
- Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Why don't you take a combo trip to the nearby Shanghai Ocean Aquarium or Jin Mao Tower!
4.7/5
11657 reviews
5/5
The view from the tower is great, the glass floor is impressive, and it was a bit scary. 😅 I stood in line for about 20-30 minutes; there were a lot of people, even though it was Monday. I went to all three viewing areas, and I also liked the toy museum.😊
5/5
Yes, a great place to visit!
5/5
Everything is great!!!
4/5
A very mixed experience. The views are stunning, but there are so many people, there are expectations everywhere, it's unclear where to go, there are real crowds... Because of this, the atmosphere is ultimately chaotic, it's impossible to simply enjoy the process. Dinner was magnificent.
5/5
A must-see in Shanghai. Beautiful views and great photos. We also climbed to the top of the balloon, like being in a spaceship!
Top 3 Shanghai Skyline Attraction: Shanghai Tower
As China’s tallest building and the second tallest in the world, the Shanghai Tower provides an amazing bird’s-eye view of the entire city. Its observation deck on the 118th floor sits at 632 meters (2,073 feet) above the ground.
Credit: from Yiran Ding, Unsplash | Shanghai Tower
What to Expect:
- The world’s fastest elevators (reaching up to 18 meters per second) take you to the top in under a minute.
- Enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of Shanghai’s urban landscape, including the Huangpu River’s winding path through the city.
Pro Tips:
- Take great photographs on clear days.
- Visit in the late afternoon to witness the city transition from day to night; stay for the sunset and take in the glittering skyline.
- Don’t miss the higher 119th floor for more panoramic views.
4.6/5
3620 reviews
5/5
The best view of the entire city! A must-see.
4/5
✨🌃 Shanghai Tower was one of my favorite experiences in Shanghai!I definitely recommend visiting in the evening—the skyline looks magical once all the city lights come on. We also had dinner there afterwards, and it made the whole experience feel even more memorable. 🥹The elevator was insanely fast! It took us to the 118th floor in under a minute, which was such a fun experience on its own. 🚀The view from the top is absolutely breathtaking and perfect for photos. 📸 The only thing is that the ticket price felt a little expensive, but I still think it’s worth visiting at least once if you’re in Shanghai. 💙
5/5
Everything is visible, I was lucky with good weather
5/5
It's definitely worth it. The nighttime skyline is beautiful. It's a shame about the people pushing to get to the front row.
5/5
A very cool observation deck, a must-see!
Top 4 Shanghai Skyline Attraction: Huangpu River Cruise
A Huangpu River cruise allows you to see both sides of the Shanghai city skyline, the historic Bund, and the futuristic Pudong district, from the water.
Credit: from CGTN | Huangpu River Cruise
What to Expect:
- Feel the architectural details on a day cruise.
- Enjoy the illuminated Shanghai skyline on a night cruise.
Pro Tips:
- Book an evening cruise for the most mesmerizing views.
- Bring a camera with a good low-light setting for capturing night scenes.
4.5/5
397 reviews
5/5
Good easy to go on ship
4/5
Nice walk along both banks of the bund
5/5
Great experience with fabulous views
5/5
We had a awesome time. We paid the Extra 200 RMB to have a table for four but we only had the two of us. I would recommend as it is nice on the top deck and to be able to sit and have some drinks while you take in the view is awesome.
4/5
We do it too early. Better to take the boat at 18.30
Top 5 Shanghai Skyline Attraction: Jin Mao Tower
As a part of the Pudong skyline trio (alongside Shanghai Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center), Jin Mao Tower offers an observation deck on the 88th floor with breathtaking panoramic views.
Credit: from KKday | Jin Mao Tower
What to Expect:
- The deck provides a slightly lower but equally impressive perspective compared to the Shanghai Tower.
- Admire its traditional Chinese aesthetics through its tiered pagoda-inspired silhouette and the use of the number 8 (considered extremely lucky to Chinese people)!
- Less crowded than some of the other towers.
Pro Tips:
- Consider visiting Jin Mao if you want a great view without the overwhelming crowds.
- The tower is often included in layover tours.
4.8/5
457 reviews5/5
We were there on a rainy day, so we couldn't see very far, but it was very empty and we were able to visit the entire platform in peace.
5/5
Spectacular view, shame the internal lights reflecting on the glass don't allow for clear photos, but still very beautiful
5/5
I don’t understand why people keep going to the Oriental Pearl Tower or to Shanghai Tower. This one is not only cheaper, but you can also SEE the previous towers from there!
5/5
The views from a bird's eye view are stunning, although perhaps not all birds fly at 340 meters. We skipped the line with our fast-track pass, but to get back down, we had to wait in a line of 50-100 people, which was a bit disappointing. Otherwise, I highly recommend it; it's a truly stunning location, filled with emotions and memories.
4/5
Views are splendid. You can see the Bund and the Pearl Tower whilst it is only a partial view from nearby towers. BUT tour groups really need to be disciplined, microphones from their guides turned off and windows cleaned inside and outside. The noise and the pushing were unbearable at some point. Be warned it can be a true circus around sunset.
Top 6 Shanghai Skyline Attraction: Lujiazui Ring Road
This massive circular pedestrian overpass in Pudong connects key attractions like the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Jin Mao Tower. It offers fantastic ground-level views of the Shanghai skyline.
Credit: from Getty Images | Lujiazui Ring Road
What to Expect:
- Free access and open 24 hours a day.
- Perfect for photographing the skyscrapers from various angles without having to go up them.
- Especially vibrant at night when the buildings are lit up.
Pro Tips:
- Visit after dark for the glittering cityscape.
- Use a wide-angle lens to capture multiple towers in one frame.
4.8/5
564 reviews5/5
Sometimes, the unfulfilled dream of a trip isn't a regret, but a gentle arrangement of fate. We always believe that only by setting foot on that land can we touch the scenery of our dreams. But when we stop and re-examine this longing, we realize that the most beautiful scenery has already blossomed in our hearts. In those days before setting off, we learned to converse with ourselves, reserving a peaceful space for our souls in a noisy world. Perhaps one morning, we will be awakened by birdsong outside our window and suddenly understand that every moment in life can be a journey. We begin to learn to find poetry in the ordinary and beauty in the trivial. This long-awaited trip, though unfulfilled, taught us how to feel the world with our hearts. It taught us that the true destination is not a coordinate on a map, but lies in our love and anticipation for life. Even if our feet haven't moved, our hearts are already on the road—this is the most precious gift that a long-awaited trip bestows upon us.
5/5
I yearn to ride the wind, treading across ten thousand miles of mountains. This is the ultimate romance, the ultimate yearning for freedom. We long to leave familiar paths and pursue the magnificent sights that exist only in dreams. Travel gives us the possibility of turning dreams into reality. When we set foot on unfamiliar land, our feet on hard rocks or soft grass, the real touch instantly awakens our dormant senses. We experience the mountain forests shrouded in morning mist, listen to the echoes in the valleys, and embrace every ray of sunlight piercing through the clouds. This is not only a physical journey but also a spiritual homecoming. Witnessed by the vast landscape, we shed all pretense and defenses, returning to our purest state. Riding the wind, treading ten thousand miles, we finally understand that the most beautiful scenery is not at the destination, but in the fearless self that braves the wind and waves along the way.
5/5
Excellent viewing platform
5/5
A fantastic photo spot, the height is simply unreal, breathtaking, I definitely recommend visiting. The damper show is simply incredible.
4/5
There were no lines. There's nothing special at the top, just walking around and looking around. There's a cafe and souvenir shops.
Compare Key Shanghai Skyline Attractions
Spots | Best for | Ticket | What to Expect | Best Time to Visit |
Panoramic views | Free | Historic architecture & river reflections | Sunrise, sunset, or night | |
Family-friendly experience | From $27.98 (adult) | Glass-floored skywalk & history museum | Weekday mornings | |
Highest aerial views | From $12.66 (adult) | Word’s fastest elevators & 360-degree views | Late afternoon to evening | |
Water-based views | From $8.44 (adult) | Views of both sides of the river | Evening for night lights | |
Fewer crowds | From $13.08 (adult) | Traditional Chinese design | Anytime | |
Ground-level views | Free | Connects multiple skyscrapers in Pudong | Night |
Insider Tips for Capturing the Perfect Shanghai Skyline
- Choose the best time: The Shanghai skyline night view is spectacular, but daytime offers clarity for photography. For the best of both, visit during the "blue hour" just after sunset.
- Check the weather: Check the forecast before heading to observation decks; fog and pollution can occasionally obscure views.
Beyond Shanghai Skyline
- Water Towns: For a contrast to the urban jungle, visit Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, known as the "Venice of the East." It offers a glimpse into old China while being just an hour from the modern skyline.
- Cultural Integration: Pair your skyline tour with cultural experiences like enjoying traditional Yue Opera or exploring the art of Gu embroidery to appreciate Shanghai’s full depth.
Shanghai Restaurant Recommendation
TASTE OF CHINA 中国味 Immersive Dining
Located at Shanghai’s historic The Bund · City Hall Plaza, this multi-sensory dining experience blends cutting-edge technology with Chinese culinary tradition. Through dynamic digital art, landscapes like the Yellow River and Li River come alive around—and even on—your plate.
Guided by the panda chef “Cheng BaoBao,” you’ll journey through seven culinary keys exploring China’s rich history and diverse culture. Each dish tells a story, merging flavor, art, and technology.
More than a meal—it’s an immersive encounter. Taste the essence of China, experience its spirit, and leave forever captivated.
TASTE OF CHINA 中国味 - Opening Hours
Operating Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Two Daily Seatings:
- Lunch Banquet: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
- Dinner Banquet: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
(Costume and styling experience is recommended 2 hours prior to seating)
TASTE OF CHINA 中国味 - Address
No.LG1-03, Zone E, 215 Middle Jiangxi Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai
TASTE OF CHINA 中国味 沉浸式餐厅
4.8/5491 Reviews
📍Unit LG1-03, THE BUND · CITY HALL PLAZA, 270 Henan Middle Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, China
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FAQs about Shanghai Skyline
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