The Pearl Tower is an iconic symbol of Shanghai and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Located on the banks of the Huangpu River, it is an observation tower with a unique design and spectacular views of the city. The tower stands at 468 meters (1,535 feet) tall and is the tallest structure in Shanghai. It is also the second tallest tower in China, after the Canton Tower in Guangzhou.
History
The Pearl Tower was built in 1994 and opened to the public in 1995. It was originally designed to be the tallest structure in Shanghai and it still holds this record today. The tower is composed of four main sections, with the topmost section being a revolving restaurant. The other sections of the tower include an observation deck, a shopping mall, and a conference center.
Design
The tower was designed by the architectural firm of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, who also designed the Willis Tower in Chicago. The design of the Pearl Tower is based on the traditional Chinese symbol of the dragon, which is seen in the shape of the tower and in the spiraling staircase. The tower is composed of a steel frame and is clad in glass and stainless steel. The observation deck and restaurant are located at the top of the tower, and are connected to the other sections of the tower by elevators.
Observation Deck
The observation deck is the main attraction of the Pearl Tower and offers spectacular views of the city. The deck is located at the top of the tower and is enclosed in a glass dome. From the deck, visitors can get a 360-degree view of Shanghai and the surrounding area. The observation deck also features a multimedia exhibition about the history and culture of Shanghai.
Shopping Mall
The shopping mall located at the base of the tower offers a wide range of shopping options, from international brands to local souvenirs. There are also several restaurants, cafes, and bars located in the mall. The mall also houses a cinema, a concert hall, and a karaoke bar.
Conference Center
The conference center located at the base of the tower is used for business meetings and events. The center is equipped with modern technology and has several meeting rooms and a large auditorium. The center also has a library and a VIP lounge.
Visiting the Pearl Tower
The Pearl Tower is open to the public daily from 8:00am to 10:00pm. Tickets for the observation deck can be purchased at the tower or online. The ticket price includes access to the observation deck, the multimedia exhibition, and the shopping mall. Tickets for the conference center can also be purchased separately.
Conclusion
The Pearl Tower is an iconic symbol of Shanghai and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. With its unique design and spectacular views, the tower is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Shanghai. Visitors can enjoy the views from the observation deck, shop at the mall, and attend events at the conference center. The Pearl Tower is open daily and tickets can be purchased at the tower or online.