Enjoy China

Standing at an astounding 632 meters (2,073 feet) with 128 stories, the Shanghai Tower is currently the second-tallest building in the world by height to architectural top, surpassed only by the Burj Khalifa. It dominates the Pudong skyline, alongside its impressive neighbors, the Jin Mao Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center. More than just a tall building, it’s a testament to sustainable design, cutting-edge engineering, and a vibrant hub for business, culture, and leisure.

Architectural Marvel: A Twist on Design

What immediately strikes you about the Shanghai Tower is its unique spiraling form. Designed by Gensler, this distinctive twist isn’t just for aesthetics; it’s a brilliant example of form meeting function. The tower rotates about one degree per floor as it rises, significantly reducing wind loads. This innovative design allowed for a lighter and more cost-effective structure, saving a substantial amount of material compared to a building of similar size without the twist.

The tower’s design is further distinguished by its double-skin facade. This involves two glass facades, one inside the other, creating nine vertical zones, or “sky lobbies,” that function like stacked city neighborhoods. This outer skin acts as a thermal buffer, insulating the building and reducing the need for air conditioning, significantly contributing to the tower’s green credentials. This innovative approach makes the Shanghai Tower a leader in sustainable super-tall building design.

Shanghai Tower’s Status and Symbolism

The Shanghai Tower is more than just a tall building; it’s a powerful symbol of China’s economic prowess, technological advancement, and commitment to sustainable urban development.

A Symbol of Progress

Its very existence speaks volumes about Shanghai’s rapid growth and its ambition to be a leading global city. It stands as a testament to the country’s engineering capabilities and its willingness to push boundaries in architecture and design. The tower’s towering presence on the Pudong skyline firmly establishes Shanghai’s place on the world stage.

Green Building Pioneer

The Shanghai Tower is a pioneer in sustainable skyscraper design. Its numerous green features, including its double-skin facade, rainwater harvesting system, and extensive use of renewable energy, earned it the LEED Platinum certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, making it one of the greenest super-tall buildings in the world. This commitment to sustainability showcases Shanghai’s forward-thinking approach to urban development and its efforts to create a more environmentally responsible future.

An Urban Vertical Community

Beyond its impressive height and green credentials, the Shanghai Tower was conceived as a “vertical city.” With office spaces, a luxury hotel (J Hotel Shanghai Tower), retail outlets, and cultural facilities, it aims to create a self-contained ecosystem where people can live, work, and socialize without ever leaving the building. This vision reflects a modern approach to urban planning, addressing the challenges of dense urban environments.

Must-Visit Spots and Photo Opportunities

While the entire building is a marvel, certain areas stand out for visitors seeking an unforgettable experience and incredible photo opportunities.

Shanghai Tower Observatory (Top of Shanghai Observatory)

Undoubtedly the highlight for most visitors, the Top of Shanghai Observatory on the 118th floor offers breathtaking panoramic views of Shanghai. At 546 meters (1,791 feet) above the ground, it’s currently the highest observation deck in the world within a building.

From here, you can see the entire expanse of Shanghai: the historic Bund with its European-style architecture, the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong, the winding Huangpu River, and on clear days, even beyond the city limits. It’s an unparalleled vantage point to grasp the sheer scale and vibrancy of this metropolis.

Tips for your visit:

• Best Time to Go: For stunning photos, aim for sunset. You’ll witness the city bathed in golden light, then transform as millions of lights twinkle on, creating a truly magical scene.
• Clear Days are Key: Check the weather forecast! Hazy or foggy days can significantly impact visibility. Aim for a day with clear skies for the best experience.
• Photography Gear: Bring a wide-angle lens if you have one, to capture the expansive views. A tripod might be useful for low-light shots during sunset or at night, though space might be limited.
• Look for the “Eye”: Near the top, there’s a unique circular window often referred to as the “Eye of Shanghai.” It offers a distinct perspective and a fantastic photo opportunity.

The World’s Fastest Elevators

Getting to the observation deck is an experience in itself. The Shanghai Tower boasts some of the world’s fastest elevators, manufactured by Mitsubishi Electric. These elevators can whisk you up to the 118th floor in a mere 55 seconds, reaching speeds of up to 20.5 meters per second (67.3 feet per second). Pay attention to the digital display inside the elevator as you ascend – it’s quite a thrill!

Sky Gardens and Retail Spaces

Throughout the tower’s “sky lobbies,” you’ll find indoor sky gardens that provide a refreshing green escape within the concrete jungle. These multi-story, transparent spaces are designed to foster a sense of community and offer natural light and ventilation. While some are not publicly accessible, walking through the retail and public areas on lower floors will give you a taste of this innovative design philosophy.

The lower levels of the tower also house high-end retail spaces and restaurants, offering opportunities for dining and shopping. These areas showcase the tower’s status as a comprehensive urban hub.

Travias of Shanghai Tower

Super Huge Damper

A super damper called “Shanghai Insight” is installed on the 125th floor of Shanghai center Building, which is composed of counterweights and slings, similar to a giant pendulum, weighing 1000 tons, accounting for 0.118% of the building weight. When strong winds strike, this giant pendulum will swing in the direction of the wind, using its own sway to reduce the shaking amplitude of the building.

In essence, the Shanghai Tower is a must-visit for any foreign friend in Shanghai. It’s a place where you can witness architectural brilliance, experience breathtaking views, and understand the dynamic spirit of a city that’s constantly reaching for the sky. It’s not just a building; it’s an experience that encapsulates the past, present, and future of Shanghai.