Shanghai Tower:118th Floor Sightseeing Adult Ticket[limited]

Introduction

Our review of the Shanghai Tower 118th Floor Sightseeing Ticket aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from this popular attraction. With its towering height and impressive skyline views, it’s a highlight for visitors eager to see Shanghai from above. While we haven’t been there ourselves, we’ve gathered insights from travelers who have and looked into all the details to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.

One thing we truly appreciate about this experience is the high-speed elevators, which whisk you to the top in just 55 seconds. The other is the stunning panoramic views that showcase both iconic landmarks and the sprawling cityscape. However, a potential drawback is that your ticket only grants access to the 118th floor, without options to go higher. This means if you’re hoping to visit other floors or enjoy a broader perspective, you might find the ticket somewhat limiting.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy spectacular city vistas and want a straightforward, hassle-free experience. It’s particularly appealing to those with a keen interest in urban development or architecture, eager to learn about Shanghai’s growth through engaging exhibits. If you’re short on time but want a snapshot of Shanghai’s skyline from one of its tallest buildings, this could be a good choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Impressive Elevation: Reach the 118th floor in just 55 seconds thanks to high-speed elevators.
• Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas of Shanghai’s skyline, landmarks, and distant sites await.
• Educational Exhibits: The B1 exhibition hall and Shanghai Center exhibits provide context about city development and architecture.
• Limited Access: The ticket only covers the 118th floor—no higher floors available.
• Price vs. Value: At $51, it offers a memorable experience but may seem steep for some, especially given the limited access.
• Accessibility: The activity is wheelchair accessible and suitable for private groups.

A Closer Look at Shanghai Tower’s Observation Experience

Standing at over 600 meters, the Shanghai Tower isn’t just a marvel of modern engineering—it’s also a prime vantage point. The 118th-floor observation deck offers an expansive view that encompasses Shanghai’s skyline with landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Jin Mao Tower clearly visible. Looking out from this height, you get a sense of how the city has grown since the 1840s, and the Sky Lobby provides a perfect starting point for your visit.

As you step into the lobby, you’re greeted with a breathtaking cityscape. Large windows frame the skyline, and the view stretches out beyond the city to the horizon. It’s an instant reminder of Shanghai’s rapid development—an urban case study that’s both inspiring and humbling.

The B1 exhibition hall adds a cultural and historical layer, featuring a 100-second animation that traces Shanghai’s skyline evolution from 1840 onward. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about how this city transformed into a global hub, these displays are worth a look. The Shanghai Center exhibit and “Skyscraper Dream” showcase the evolution of tall buildings worldwide, highlighting Shanghai’s place in architectural innovation.

The Gene Bank and Vertical City exhibits offer insights into the tower’s sustainable features like sky gardens and dampers, which are part of what make this building more than just a tall structure. These details appeal to those interested in green architecture and the future of urban living.

The interactive projects like the “Step Over the Sky” and Wishing Tree provide fun ways to engage with the experience, making it more than just a passive viewing. And with souvenirs available at the Sky Shop, you can take a little piece of the skyline home.

The Elevator Ride and the View

The high-speed elevator is a highlight in itself. It rockets you to the 118th floor in 55 seconds, an experience that can feel thrilling or dizzying, depending on your nerves. In reviews, some mention feeling dizzy or noticing limited visibility due to weather, but most agree the ascent is swift and smooth.

Once at the top, the views are truly impressive. From this height, you’ll see a sprawling urban landscape, with key landmarks clearly identifiable. The atmosphere is quiet and contemplative—save for the occasional camera click—allowing you to soak in this perspective of Shanghai.

The viewing platform is designed for optimal sightlines, with plenty of glass for unobstructed photos. If you’re lucky with weather conditions, you might enjoy a clear, crisp skyline. If fog or haze roll in, visibility can be limited, which is a common concern in high-altitude sightseeing.

The Exhibits and Educational Value

Unlike many observation decks, the Shanghai Tower offers a suite of educational exhibits that add value to your visit. For example, the “Gene Bank” details the innovative planning and construction techniques, such as the building’s sky gardens and dampers, which improve stability and sustainability.

The “Vertical City” exhibit uses 3D printing to illustrate the building’s green and intelligent features. These displays are engaging, especially for those curious about modern skyscraper technologies.

While some visitors feel that the ticket price is somewhat high for just visiting the 118th floor, the exhibits help justify the cost by providing context and insights you wouldn’t get from a simple observation deck.

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Practical Tips for Visitors

• Timing: Your ticket is valid for a specific time window—either 16:30-18:30 or 18:30-20:30. Choose your preferred slot when booking.
• Getting There: The main entrance is straightforward; just scan your e-ticket.
• Accessibility: The activity is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all travelers.
• What to Bring: Your passport or ID card is required for entry.
• Weather Considerations: Visibility is weather-dependent. Check the forecast—cloudy days might limit your views.
• Cost Analysis: At $51, the ticket offers a memorable experience, but some reviews suggest it’s on the pricey side given the limited access. Still, for those who love panoramic cityscapes and architectural exhibits, it’s a worthwhile splurge.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

One review noted, “The view of Shanghai was okay. It was dizzy that day and you couldn’t see far,” highlighting that weather can significantly influence your experience. Another pointed out, “No option to upgrade to higher floors, which makes the ticket seem expensive,” emphasizing that the experience is confined to the 118th floor.

Despite these limitations, many travelers appreciate the quality of the exhibits and the stunning vistas. One reviewer mentioned, “The high-speed elevators make the ascent quick and exciting,” and many found the educational displays added meaningful context to the city views.

The Sum Up

The Shanghai Tower 118th Floor Sightseeing Ticket delivers a spectacular view of one of Asia’s most vibrant cities, complemented by informative exhibits that deepen your understanding of Shanghai’s skyline evolution. The quick elevator ride and the panoramic vistas are the main attractions, making it a hit for those wanting a straightforward, memorable sightseeing experience.

However, if you’re looking for access to multiple floors or a broader perspective, this ticket might feel somewhat limited. Still, the quality of the views and the educational content make it a good value for architecture enthusiasts and first-time visitors eager to capture iconic Shanghai images.

For travelers who enjoy high-rise panoramas and want to learn about Shanghai’s urban growth, this experience offers a nice blend of spectacle and education in a convenient format. It’s particularly suited for visitors with a keen interest in modern architecture and city planning.

FAQ

How do I access the Shanghai Tower observation deck?
You simply scan your e-ticket at the main entrance of the building. It’s straightforward and quick.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket price covers entry to the 118th-floor observation deck and the exhibits within the tower.

Can I upgrade to go higher than the 118th floor?
No, this ticket only grants access to the 118th floor. There are no options for higher floors with this ticket.

Is the activity wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is accessible for wheelchair users.

What are the valid times for entry?
You can choose between two time periods: 16:30–18:30 or 18:30–20:30. Purchase must be at least one day in advance.

How long does the visit usually take?
The visit’s duration varies, but most travelers spend about an hour exploring the deck and exhibits.

Is it suitable for children or older adults?
It’s best suited for those aged 18 to 60. It’s not recommended for children under 18, pregnant women, or those with high blood pressure or mobility issues.

Are there souvenirs available?
Yes, souvenirs can be purchased at the Sky Shop on the 118th and B2 floors.

What should I bring for my visit?
Bring your passport or ID card for entry.

What if the weather is bad?
Visibility and experience depend heavily on weather; fog or haze can limit your views. Check the forecast before your visit.

In the end, this experience offers a well-rounded look at Shanghai’s skyline, perfect for those wanting a mix of spectacular views and informative exhibits. Just remember to weigh the ticket price against your desire for higher floors or additional experiences. Happy sightseeing!

You can check availability for your dates here: