Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai

The Oriental Pearl Tower is an iconic landmark in the bustling city of Shanghai, China. This remarkable structure, piercing the skyline at an impressive height of 468 meters, has been a defining feature of the city since its completion in 1994. As a tower, it serves as a multifunctional facility with broadcasting capabilities, observation decks, and a revolving restaurant, offering visitors a 360-degree view of the sprawling urban landscape.

The tower's design is modern and distinctive, featuring eleven spheres of various sizes supported by three enormous columns. The two largest spheres, known as the Space Module and the Upper Sphere, along with the smaller ones, create a visual representation of pearls shining on the surface of the Huangpu River, hence the tower's name.

As one of Shanghai's must-see attractions, the Oriental Pearl Tower draws millions of tourists annually. It boasts three observation levels – the Space Module at 350 meters, the Upper Observation Deck at 263 meters, and the Lower Observation Deck at 90 meters above the ground. Each level offers a unique perspective of the city, with the Space Module providing the most panoramic views.

The tower is more than just a viewing platform; it is a cultural and entertainment hub. It houses the Shanghai Municipal History Museum in its pedestal, where visitors can learn about the city's past. The revolving restaurant in the Upper Sphere allows guests to dine with an ever-changing backdrop of Shanghai's skyline.

Open to visitors throughout the year, the Oriental Pearl Tower is particularly striking at night when it is illuminated with LED lights, creating a dazzling display that can be seen from various points across the city.