1. The Oriental Pearl Tower, also known as the Dongfang Mingzhu Ta, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Shanghai, China. It is a TV tower and observation tower located in the Pudong district of the city.
The tower was completed in 1994 and stands at a height of 468 meters (1,535 feet). It has 11 spheres of various sizes that are supported by three columns, giving it a unique and futuristic appearance. The design of the tower was inspired by a poem called \"Pipa Song\" by Bai Juyi, which describes the beautiful scene of a pipa player in a garden.
One of the most interesting features of the Oriental Pearl Tower is its observation deck, which offers panoramic views of Shanghai’s skyline. The highest observation deck, known as the Space Module, is located at a height of 350 meters (1,148 feet) and provides breathtaking views of the city.
The tower is also home to the Shanghai Municipal History Museum, which showcases the history and development of Shanghai. Visitors can learn about the city’s transformation from a small fishing village to a global financial center.
2. The Oriental Pearl Tower is open to visitors from 8:00 am to 9:30 pm. The last admission is at 9:00 pm. They can be contacted at +86 21 5879 1888 (phone number may vary, it is recommended to check before visiting).
3. Ticket information:
- Admission to the Oriental Pearl Tower observation deck (including the Sightseeing Hall and Space Module) costs 220 CNY (Chinese Yuan) for adults and 140 CNY for children (between 1.2m and 1.4m in height). Children below 1.2m in height enter for free.
- For an additional fee, visitors can access the Transparent Observatory, which is a glass-floored platform located 259 meters (850 feet) above the ground.
- The Shanghai Municipal History Museum ticket costs 35 CNY for adults and 25 CNY for children.
Transportation:
- The Oriental Pearl Tower can be reached by taking the Metro Line 2 and getting off at Lujiazui Station.
- It is also accessible by several bus lines, including 81, 82, 85, 583, 774, 795, 798, 799, and 799B.
- There is a parking lot available for those who prefer to drive.