The second-tallest building in the world (as of 2024), Shanghai Tower at 632 metres holds China's highest observation deck at 546 metres on floor 118. The view at this height extends on clear days to beyond Hangzhou — the full expanse of the Yangtze Delta is visible, with the Bund and city below forming a comprehensible map.
The building itself is technically extraordinary: a twisting form reducing wind load by 24 percent compared to a conventional tower, with the world's fastest elevators reaching the observation floor in under a minute. The experience of speed in the ascent is itself remarkable. Admission is expensive; book online to avoid queues. The observation deck is open daily; clear days (often after rain) are significantly better than hazy days. Century Avenue; Metro Lujiazui.