Shanghai World Financial Center–Facts, Travel Highlights & Tips

Written by Wendy Mo | Updated March 29,2026

Shanghai is a world-famous metropolis, and many people would first know it from its towers, such as the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Tower, and, definitely, the Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC).

Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC) is one of Shanghai’s tallest buildings and is known for its observation decks and iconic “bottle opener” design. Its prime location in the heart of the Lujiazui financial district also makes it a must-visit site.

For first-time visitors or photography enthusiasts, this tower will be a place you don’t want to miss. It provides one of the best panoramic views of Shanghai. This guide will give all the detailed information to make your visit to the Shanghai World Financial Center more rewarding.

Content Preview

• Basic Facts of Shanghai World Financial Center
• How to Plan Your Visit to Shanghai World Financial Center
• What to Do at Shanghai World Financial Center
• Nearby Attractions & Skyscraper Comparison
• Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
• FAQ about Shanghai World Financial Center
• Explore Shanghai’s Skyscrapers with China Xian Tour

Basic Facts of Shanghai World Financial Center

• Location: 100, Century Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
• Height: 492 meters.
• Floors: 3 underground, 101 above ground
• Opening Time: 9:00-21:00
• Completed Year: 2008
• Facilities:

       B2-B1F, 2-3F: shops and restaurants

       7-77F: office

       79-93F: Park Hyatt Shanghai

       94, 97, 100F: Sky Arena

Highlights of SWFC

• Iconic “Bottle Opener” Design

The tower has a distinctive “bottle opener” shape. It has a trapezoidal opening near the top, which is designed to reduce wind pressure while giving the building a recognizable silhouette.

• Signature Observation Deck Experience

The building’s main attraction is its multi-level observation decks. Each of them gives different viewing heights and experiences.

1. 94th floor: indoor observation hall with wide city views
2. 97th floor: open-air sky bridge (weather permitting)
3. 100th floor: highest deck with glass-floor skywalk. It’s known forthe thrilling “walk above the city” experience

• One of the Best Skyline Views in Shanghai

From the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks and waterways, including the Bund and the Huangpu River.

• Shanghai Skyscraper Trio

SWFC is really close to other two Shanghai’s iconic landmarks: the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and Shanghai Jinmao Tower. They are together called Shanghai’s “Three-Piece Set”.

How to Plan Your Visit to Shanghai World Financial Center

Best Time to Visit

A visit usually takes 1–2 hours, but allow extra time for ticketing and queues. Visiting from sunset to nighttime lets you to catch the illuminated Shanghai skyline views, while daytime offers perfect visibility. However, try to plan your visit on a clear day without fog and rain. Such weather conditions can reduce visibility significantly, so choose a clear day if possible.

How to Get to SWFC

What to Do at Shanghai World Financial Center

Skywalk & Observation Decks (94 / 97 / 100F)

94F Sightseeing Hall (423 m)

The 94th floor is a spacious indoor observation hall about 750 square meters It offers wide views of Shanghai along the Huangpu River and is also often used for exhibitions and events. Besides enjoying the astonishing views, you can also find basic facilities like a café and souvenir shop here.

97F Sightseeing Flyover (439 m)

The 97th floor features a unique “sky bridge” design. With its open skylight roof (weather permitting), it actually makes you feel like walking in the air. Visitors can take photos here while also enjoying the fresh air at high altitude.

100F Skywalk (472–474 m)

The 100th floor is the highlight of all. Its most incredible design is a 55-meter-long glass skywalk. Walking on the transparent floor gives a thrilling “floating above the city” experience. And don’t miss the views of Oriental Pearl TV and nearby skyscrapers right in front of you.

Tips: You’ll need tickets to visit these three floors. However, tickets are currently available online only during special events. For more detailed information, please check the official ticketing websites.

Photography & City Views

For anyone who wants to take photos of the vast landscape of Shanghai, the tower is certainly a place to add to your list. If you’re visiting during daytime, you can catch clearer views of the city layout. Nighttime visitors can expect the illuminated skyline of this metropolis. If time allows, try to visit at sunset, as this is the moment for you to have both daylight and city lights for the best shots.

Dining & Hotel Experience

Besides, the building also houses other luxury facilities, including the well-known Park Hyatt Shanghai. This hotel provides visitors with experiences such as enjoying high-altitude dining and panoramic city views from restaurants and lounges. Compared with walking on different floors, this is a more relaxed way to experience the skyline.

Nearby Attractions & Skyscraper Comparison

Shanghai World Financial Center sits within Shanghai’s most iconic skyscraper cluster in Lujiazui. Shanghai Tower (the tallest building in China at 632 m) and Oriental Pearl Tower (the city’s most recognizable landmark) are both within walking distance. Across the Huangpu River lies the Bund, offering classic skyline views.

As a result, to make an even rewarding visit, you can also include this site in your itinerary.

Suggested Route:

Lujiazui loop: Oriental Pearl → SWFC → Shanghai Tower. Then walk along the riverside promenade and cross the Bund.

Comparison of Major Skyscrapers in Shanghai

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Crowds: The observation decks can get busy during events and holidays. If you want to avoid long lines, visit early in the morning or late afternoon.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for children, though the 100F glass skywalk may be intimidating for very young or sensitive kids.
• Entrance & Elevators: The main entrance for observation decks is on Basement 1, west side of the building (opposite Jin Mao Tower). On-site tickets are sold here, and here you can also take direct elevators which reach the 94th floor in about 66 seconds.
• Hotel Guests: Park Hyatt guests have separate elevators from the south side.

FAQs about Shanghai World Financial Center

• Can I visit for free on my birthday?

No, SWFC has canceled the free admission on birthdays. Now you need to purchase it as usual.

• Which is better for full panoramic views, SWFC or Oriental Pearl Tower?

Compared to the Oriental Pearl Tower, SWFC provides a higher and wider view. However, Pearl Tower has more activities and a fully transparent sightseeing corridor. If time allows, we recommend you visit both of them.

• Besides Park Hyatt Shanghai, are there other dining options in the building?

Yes, there are several restaurants and cafés on B2-B1F, 2-3F for casual dining. After your visit, come and have a fulfilling meal.

Explore Shanghai’s Skyscrapers with China Xian Tour

Shanghai is a city full of wonders. It has its historic charm and its futuristic sites, and the Shanghai World Financial Center is one of them. It gives visitors a perfect chance to see Shanghai from the sky while also providing various relaxing activities. In general, it’s a site worth visiting, especially if you want to have a panoramic view of Shanghai. And it can be well combined with other nearby Shanghai highlights.

if you’re now planning a Shanghai tour, China Xian Tour can be your best travel partner. We offer customized services and we assure that every detail in this journey will be perfectly handled by our professional guide. Contact us right now and be ready to start a relaxing trip to this beautiful city!