Shanghai World Financial Center - a city skyline with skyscrapers lit up at night
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Shanghai World Financial Center

4.6
·491k reviews·, China

Soar to the top of Shanghai's 'bottle opener' skyscraper for unparalleled 360-degree views of the bustling metropolis.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, clearer skies

CrowdLow
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Shanghai World Financial Center - a city skyline with skyscrapers lit up at night

Shanghai World Financial Center

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, clearer skies

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Soar to the top of Shanghai's 'bottle opener' skyscraper for unparalleled 360-degree views of the bustling metropolis.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The views from the Shanghai World Financial Center are absolutely breathtaking, offering a true sense of Shanghai's grandeur."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Skyline Trio

From the SWFC, you can see the Shanghai Tower and Jin Mao Tower. For the ultimate view, head to the Shanghai Tower to see the SWFC!

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and potentially money by purchasing your admission tickets in advance through the official website. :admission_tickets:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sky-High Observation Deck

Sky-High Observation Deck

94th, 97th, and 100th floors

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Shanghai's iconic skyline. A must-see for any visitor.

The 'Bottle Opener' Architecture

The 'Bottle Opener' Architecture

Exterior

Marvel at the unique trapezoidal opening at the top, a distinctive feature of this architectural marvel.

Lujiazui Skyline Trio

Lujiazui Skyline Trio

Observation deck vantage point

See the Shanghai Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and SWFC together – the iconic trio of Lujiazui.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Iconic Views

To capture the best photos and avoid long queues, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Consider booking tickets online in advance to save time.

Understand the 'Bottle Opener' View

The Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC) is famously known as the 'bottle opener' skyscraper. While it offers stunning views, many visitors also recommend the Shanghai Tower for its even higher observation deck, allowing you to see the SWFC itself.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, clearer skies
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon/Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Evening (city lights)
Why
Sparkling city views
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Shanghai World Financial Center, view the entire building from this angle 😮 Welcome to Shanghai 🇨🇳 #shanghai #cityscape #skyscraper #cityvlg #china #travelchina #fyp
@cityvlg
64.3K likes • 745.9K views

📸 Capture the Skyline Trio

From the SWFC, you can see the Shanghai Tower and Jin Mao Tower. For the ultimate view, head to the Shanghai Tower to see the SWFC! TikTokInstagram

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and potentially money by purchasing your admission tickets in advance through the official website. :admission_tickets:

5 THINGS YOU MUST DO in Shanghai 🇨🇳 — 🏷️ #china #chinafood #chinatravel #chinatrip #chinesefood #shanghai #shanghaifood #shanghaitravel #shanghairestaurant #viralfood
@eatswithclaire
32.6K likes • 393.1K views
🎈 上海陸家嘴三件套 “開瓶器”上海環球金融中心(Shanghai World Financial Center) “注射器”上海金茂大厦(Jinmao Tower) “打蛋器”上海中心大厦(Shanghai Tower) 真的很喜歡每個國家的一線城市🏙️ 本身住在都市的我 很喜歡看這些大樓 覺得好美好療癒 要收集陸家嘴三件套の拍照 這篇請收藏起來‼️ 🔎陸家嘴人行天橋(影片後面那4張照片是在這拍的) 📍地址:陸家嘴地鐵5號口,上天橋靠近陸家嘴中心綠地西門的走廊 🔺我個人是往天橋底一直走,這邊人很少 🔎陸家嘴人行天橋自動扶梯 📍地址:陸家嘴地鐵6號出口就會看到了 🔎陸家嘴中心 📍地址:金茂君悦酒店 看到一堆人聚集就是那了~(下篇會分享照片) #china #chinatravel #chinashanghai #shanghai #shanghaitrip #popdaily...
nni._112
0 likes • 5.2K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, especially on the observation decks. :athletic_shoe:

📱 Download a City Map App

Navigate Pudong's financial district easily with a reliable map application. :iphone:

L’hotel si trova in uno dei grattacieli più alti del mondo, all’interno del World Financial Center, nel cuore del quartiere finanziario di Shanghai. 🏙️ Video completo sul mio canale YouTube! #shanghai #cina #businessitalia #worldfinancialcenter #parkhyatthotel
michaelcesarini_
0 likes • 4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Skyline Trio

From the SWFC, you can see the Shanghai Tower and Jin Mao Tower. For the ultimate view, head to the Shanghai Tower to see the SWFC! TikTokInstagram

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and potentially money by purchasing your admission tickets in advance through the official website. :admission_tickets:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, especially on the observation decks. :athletic_shoe:

📱 Download a City Map App

Navigate Pudong's financial district easily with a reliable map application. :iphone:

✨ Visit During Golden Hour

The sunset light creates a magical glow over the city, perfect for stunning photographs. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from the Shanghai World Financial Center's observation decks, highlighting the unique 'bottle opener' architecture. Many appreciate the opportunity to see the iconic Lujiazui skyline trio. However, some find the ticket prices to be on the higher side, and during peak times, crowds can detract from the experience.

What People Like

Stunning city views
Iconic architecture
Lujiazui skyline

What People Dislike

High ticket prices
Crowded during peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way is by metro. Take Line 2 to Lujiazui Station, then it's a short walk. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available in Shanghai. TikTok

While there is parking available, it can be expensive and crowded. Using public transport is generally recommended for visitors. :car:

Yes, the SWFC is part of the Lujiazui financial district, and you can walk to or from the Shanghai Tower and Jin Mao Tower, though it's a significant distance. TikTok

Exit 1 from Lujiazui Station on Line 2 will bring you closest to the building. Follow the signs for the Shanghai World Financial Center. TikTok

While there aren't specific shuttle buses for the SWFC, the extensive metro system in Shanghai makes it very accessible. :bus:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary depending on which floors you wish to access. Generally, access to the highest floors is more expensive. Check the official website for current pricing. :ticket:

Yes, tickets are available for purchase at the venue. However, buying online in advance is often recommended to avoid potential queues, especially during peak times. Reddit

The observation decks are typically open daily from morning until late evening. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can change seasonally. :clock3:

Information on discounts for children, seniors, or students is usually available on the official website. It's worth checking before your visit. :moneywithwings:

There is no strict dress code, but smart casual attire is generally appropriate. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended. :shirt:

🎫 🏙️ Onsite Experience

The 100th floor offers the highest panoramic views, but the 94th floor also provides excellent vistas and is often less crowded. Many visitors enjoy experiencing multiple levels. TikTok

Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully enjoy the views, take photos, and explore the different levels. If you plan to visit during a busy period, you might need more time. :stopwatch:

Beyond the observation decks, the SWFC houses offices, a hotel, and retail spaces. The main attraction for tourists is the incredible city view. Instagram

The building is generally accessible, with elevators serving the observation decks. It's advisable to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility needs. :wheelchair:

Yes, photography and videography are generally permitted for personal use. However, tripods and professional equipment might require special permission. :camerawithflash:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the SWFC has several dining options, including restaurants and cafes, particularly within the hotel and retail areas. Instagram

Dining options range from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, offering various international and local Chinese cuisines. :ramen:

The Lujiazui area has numerous dining establishments, from food courts in nearby malls to local eateries, offering a range of price points. :moneybag:

Typically, food and beverages are not allowed on the observation decks themselves to maintain cleanliness. There are usually designated areas or cafes nearby. :coffee:

Dining at the SWFC can be a premium experience with great views, but it comes with a higher price tag. Many visitors opt to dine in the surrounding Lujiazui area for more variety and value. :forkandknife:

📸 📸 Photography

Sunset and twilight offer the most dramatic lighting for cityscapes. Early morning can provide clearer views with fewer people. Instagram

The observation decks offer unparalleled panoramic views. Look for angles that capture the unique architecture of the building itself and the surrounding skyline. TikTok

Tripods are often restricted on observation decks to avoid obstructing other visitors. It's best to check the venue's specific photography policy. :camera:

This refers to a unique, long escalator that leads up to the observation decks, offering a dramatic ascent and photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

To capture the iconic opening, you'll need to be at a distance. Consider viewpoints from across the Huangpu River or from other nearby skyscrapers like the Shanghai Tower. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting the Shanghai World Financial Center can be an exciting experience for families. The sheer height and the panoramic views of the city can captivate children's imaginations. While there aren't specific play areas, the observation decks offer a unique perspective on the urban landscape. TikTok

Tip: Consider visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to allow children more space to move and enjoy the views. Bringing snacks and drinks is advisable, though check venue policies. The journey to the top via the escalators can also be an adventure in itself for younger visitors. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

While the SWFC observation deck has an admission fee, there are ways to experience the Lujiazui skyline without breaking the bank. Some Reddit users suggest that while the Shanghai Tower offers the highest view, the SWFC still provides excellent value for its price, especially if booked in advance. Reddit

Tip: Look for combo tickets if available, or consider enjoying the skyline views from ground level in Lujiazui Park or along the riverside promenade. Many nearby malls also offer affordable dining options, allowing you to save money on food. :moneywithwings:

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Shanghai World Financial Center is a photographer's dream, offering incredible opportunities to capture the city's iconic skyline. The 'bottle opener' design itself is a unique subject. TikTok

Tip: Aim for sunset or twilight for the most dramatic lighting. Consider visiting the Shanghai Tower for a different perspective that includes the SWFC. Be mindful of potential restrictions on tripods and professional equipment on the observation decks. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic 'Bottle Opener' Architecture

The Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC) is instantly recognizable for its distinctive trapezoidal aperture at the summit, earning it the nickname 'bottle opener.' This design wasn't just for aesthetics; it was engineered to reduce wind-load forces on the building, a crucial consideration for supertall skyscrapers. The opening also serves as a helipad. The building's sleek, modern design makes it a standout in the Lujiazui skyline. TikTok

Visitors often marvel at the sheer scale and engineering prowess required to construct such a structure. The materials used, primarily steel and glass, reflect the dynamism and modernity of Shanghai. The building's presence is a symbol of China's rapid economic development and its ambition on the global stage. Seeing it lit up at night is a truly unforgettable experience. Instagram

While the architecture is a draw, the true magic for many visitors lies in the views it offers. The SWFC is one of three supertall skyscrapers in the Lujiazui area, forming an iconic trio that defines Shanghai's financial district. Capturing this trio in a single frame is a popular goal for photographers. TikTokInstagram

Navigating the Lujiazui Skyline

The Lujiazui financial district in Pudong is home to some of the world's most impressive skyscrapers, including the Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC), the Shanghai Tower, and the Jin Mao Tower. These three giants are often referred to as the 'Lujiazui skyline trio' and are a major draw for tourists. TikTok

Many travelers debate which observation deck offers the best experience. Some Reddit users suggest that while the SWFC provides incredible views, the Shanghai Tower, being the tallest, offers an even higher vantage point, allowing you to see the SWFC itself. Reddit This creates a unique perspective where one skyscraper offers a view of the other. Consider visiting multiple towers for a comprehensive skyline experience. TikTok

Getting between these landmarks is relatively easy via metro or a brisk walk. The area is well-connected and designed for pedestrian flow, though the sheer scale can be overwhelming. Planning your visits to these towers strategically can maximize your time and photographic opportunities. Instagram

Photography Tips for the SWFC

Capturing the Shanghai World Financial Center and its surroundings requires a bit of planning. For the iconic 'bottle opener' shape, you'll need to be at a distance. Popular viewpoints include the Bund across the Huangpu River or from the observation decks of other nearby skyscrapers like the Shanghai Tower. TikTok Experiment with different angles to showcase the building's unique design. Instagram

When visiting the observation decks, the best times for photography are during the 'golden hour' around sunset or in the early morning before the city fully awakens. The twilight hours, when the city lights begin to twinkle, also offer a spectacular, albeit often crowded, photographic opportunity. Instagram Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours and holidays. Reddit

Remember to check the venue's policy on tripods and professional equipment, as these are often restricted on observation decks. Focus on capturing both the grand panoramic views and the architectural details of the SWFC itself. Don't forget to include the other iconic towers in your shots for a complete Lujiazui panorama. TikTok

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