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China Skyscrapers

Top 10 Tallest Skyscrapers in China (2026 Ranking) & Visitor Guide

Written by Candice Zhao |

With the number of buildings over 300 meters exceeding 100, China has been the home to the world’s largest collection of supertall skyscrapers. This forest of towers draws countless travelers from all over the world to marvel at the magnificent city skylines. Among the cities, Shenzhen, Shanghai and Guangzhou, with dense clusters of high-rise buildings, have become the most popular destinations.

This guide will share 2026 top 10Ā tallest skyscrapers in China, their unique architectural features and the practical visitor information, including the popular observation decks and best photography spots. Follow us to have a quick understanding of these buildings before your travel.

Shenzhen Skyline
Shenzhen Skyline

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The Current Ranking: Top 10 Tallest Completed Skyscrapers in China 2026

1.Ā Shanghai Tower

  • Location: Shanghai
  • Height: 632Ā m / 2,073Ā ft
  • Floors: 128
  • Completed Time: 2015
  • Ticket: CNY 180/USD 26Ā for Top of Shanghai observation deck on the 118thĀ floor
Shanghai Tower
Shanghai Tower

Shanghai Tower is the tallest skyscraper in China and the third-tallest building in the world. The most striking feature of it is the twisted shape with an overall twist angle reaching 120 °, resembling a DNA double helix. This design gives the building a distinctive architectural aesthetic appeal, meanwhile reducing the impact of strong wind.

It is a comprehensive building with nine vertical zones, including a J Hotel, offices area, business zone, art zone, sightseeing area, etc. The Top of Shanghai observation deck on the 118thĀ floor is the world’s highest indoor observation deck, allowing you to overlook the whole city.

2.Ā Ping An International Finance Center in Shenzhen

  • Location: Shenzhen
  • Height: 599Ā m / 1,965Ā ft
  • Floors: 115
  • Completed Time: 2017
  • Ticket: CNY 200/USD 29 for Free Sky observation deck on the 116th floor
Ping An International Finance Center in Shenzhen
Ping An International Finance Center in Shenzhen

Ping An IFC is the headquarter of Ping An Insurance Company. With a height of 599 meters, it ranks as the tallest building in ShenzhenĀ and theĀ second-tallest building in China. Looking from afar, it is like a crystal pillar towering into the sky. The elegant conical appearance and a ā€œCrystal Crownā€Ā at the top are the most eye-catching characteristic.

The Free Sky observation deckĀ on the 116thĀ floor is the highest sightseeing floor in southern China. Standing there, you can enjoy a panoramic view of both Shenzhen and Hong Kong.

3.Ā Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre

  • Location: Guangzhou
  • Height: 530Ā m / 1,739Ā ft
  • Floors: 111
  • Completed Time: 2016
  • Ticket: free for K11 Sky Garden observation deck on the 111thĀ floor
Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre
Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre

Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre, together with Guangzhou International Finance Center, is renowned as the Twin Towers in Guangzhou and has been the landmark of the new central axis of the city. ItsĀ terraced designĀ shows a continuous upward trend. As the floors rise, the terrace gradually decreases, formingĀ four sky gardens.

The building is equipped with theĀ world’s fastest elevator, whose speed can reach 20m/s, so tourists can be transported to the 95thĀ floor in just 43 seconds. The K11 Sky Garden is on the top floor and offers a bird’s-eye view of Zhuajiang New Town.

4.Ā Tianjin CTF Finance Centre

  • Location: Tianjin
  • Height: 530Ā m / 1,739Ā ft
  • Floors: 97
  • Completed Time: 2019
  • Ticket: observation deck on the 43rdĀ floor: Tue. – Fri.: CNY 20/USD 3; Sat. – Sun. and public holidays: CNY 30/USD 4; closed on Mondays.
Tianjin CTF Finance Centre
Tianjin CTF Finance Centre

Tianjin CTF Finance CentreĀ is the tallest buildings in northern China. It isĀ shaped like a treasure bottle with a streamlined outlook that shines like a brilliant diamond on sunny days. Its design draws inspiration from the geometric shapes, thus employing undulating curves.

This super high-rise landmark building integrates offices, business areas, hotels and apartments. Its observation deck is on the 43rdĀ floor. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer an unobstructed view of cityscape for tourists.

5.Ā Beijing CITIC Tower

  • Location: Beijing
  • Height: 528Ā m / 1,731Ā ft
  • Floors: 109
  • Completed Time: 2018
  • Ticket: freefor sightseeing floor on the 56thĀ floor, but you need to make a reservation on the Beijing CBD official Wechat account one day in advance
Beijing CITIC Tower
Beijing CITIC Tower

The design of CITIC Tower is inspired by the traditional Chinese ritual vessel “zun”,Ā which naturally shrinks from bottom to top, slightly narrows in the middle, and gradually enlarges at the top, forming an elegant hyperbolic shape, so it is also called China Zun.

As the highest building in Beijing, it has been the new city landmark. On the 56thĀ floor, there is a free sightseeing floor, where you can take in the iconic landscapes, like the Forbidden City. On sunny days, you can even have a distant view of the Great Wall.

6.Ā TAIPEI 101

  • Location: Taipei
  • Height: 508Ā m / 1,667Ā ft
  • Floors: 101
  • Completed Time: 2004
  • Ticket: NTD 600/USD 19 for each observation deck on the 88th, 89thĀ and 91stĀ floors; NTD 3,000/USD 94 for Skyline 460
TAIPEI 101
TAIPEI 101

TAIPEI 101 isĀ like a bambooĀ growing taller and taller. Every eight floors form a structural unit. It has the world’s largest wind damperĀ to ensure its stability in the strong wind. You can watch the wind damper closely on the 88thĀ floor.

In addition, there is an indoor observation deck on the 89thĀ floor and an outdoor observation deck on the 91stĀ floor. The outdoor platform is only open to the public when the weather is good.

Another challenging project is theĀ Skyline 460 on the top floor. It is the highest outdoor walkwayĀ in Asia. An additional ticket is required and the daily limit is 12 people. The wind is really strong in all outdoor areas, so remember to bring a coat.

7.Ā Shanghai World Financial Center

  • Location: Shanghai
  • Height: 492Ā m / 1,614Ā ft
  • Floors: 101
  • Completed Time: 2008
  • Ticket: CNY 180/USD 26 for the ticket package including all three observation decks on the 94th, 97thĀ and 100thĀ floors
Shanghai World Financial Center
Shanghai World Financial Center

SWFC is nicknamed ā€œbottle openerā€Ā because of its unique outlook, an inverted trapezoidal opening design at the top. It not only offers a unique visual effect but also effectively reduces wind resistance. This building draws inspiration from the Chinese character ā€œé¼Žā€, symbolizing prosperity and flourishing.

The sightseeing platform on the 94th floor is equipped with 360° glass curtain walls. On the 97th floor is a suspended sightseeing bridge with an open glass ceiling. The observation deck on the 100th floor features three transparent glass floors. Looking directly at the ground, you may feel a strong sense of dizziness.

8.Ā Hong Kong International Commerce Centre

  • Location: Hong Kong
  • Height: 484Ā m / 1,588Ā ft
  • Floors: 108
  • Completed Time: 2010
  • Ticket: HKD 168 – 178/USD 21 – 23 for Sky100 Observation Deck on the 108thĀ floor
Hong Kong International Commerce Centre
Hong Kong International Commerce Centre

Hong Kong International Commerce CentreĀ is designed by an international architecture firm KPF with theĀ concept of dragon. The canopy at the base of the building extends outward in an arc and gradually narrows, referred to as the “dragon tail” by the team.

It is the tallest building in Hong Kong, China.Ā The Sky100 observation deckĀ on the top floor is the only indoor viewing platform in Hong Kong that offers a panoramic view of the entire city. Whether you want to feel the hustle and bustle of the city during the day or enjoy the twinkling city lights at night, it is worth visiting. On sunny days, you can also overlook Macao from afar.

9.Ā Wuhan Greenland Center

  • Location: Wuhan
  • Height: 476Ā m / 1,560Ā ft
  • Floors: 101
  • Completed Time: 2023
  • Ticket: CNY 30/USD 4 for sightseeing hall on the 46th floor
Wuhan Greenland Center
Wuhan Greenland Center

Viewed from above, Wuhan Greenland Center resembles a “clover”. This unique design is mainly inspired by the unique geographical structure of the three towns in Wuhan, which are Wuchang, Hankou and Hanyang. The three petals of the ā€œcloverā€Ā correspond respectively to three towns, symbolizing common prosperity and development.

When viewed from a distance, it is like a long arrow shooting straight into the sky, or a silver dragon shining brightly under sunlight. When standing on the sightseeing hall on the 46thĀ floor, you canĀ see the magnificent Yangtze River right beneath your feet.

10.Ā Chongqing International Land-Sea Center

  • Location: Chongqing
  • Height: 1 mĀ / 1,503 ft
  • Floors: 98
  • Completed Time: 2025
Chongqing Land-Sea International Center
Chongqing Land Sea International Center

With the concept of “sailing ship”, the overall appearance of Chongqing International Land-Sea Center resembles a sailing ship setting sail. Its indoor design incorporates the characteristic natural elements of Chongqing, such as mountains, clouds and rain.

The commercial space is divided into sections with the themes of “riverside”, “Mountain City” and “Valley Village”, creating a three-dimensional Chongqing in the building. Now, there isĀ no observation deck. But the 97thĀ and 100thĀ floors are designed as high-altitude sightseeing areas and are scheduled to be opened in 2026.

Beyond the Top 10: Other Notable Supertall Buildings

1.Ā Changsha IFS Tower

  • Location: Changsha
  • Height: 452Ā m / 1,483Ā ft
  • Floors: 94
  • Completed Time: 2018
Changsha IFS Tower
Changsha IFS Tower

Changsha International Finance Center consists of 2 buildings,Ā including the 452-meter-high main building and the 315-meter-high annex. It is located in the city center and is a super-tall urban complex with a large shopping center, super Grade A office buildings and an international five-star hotel. AĀ large KAWS sculptureĀ stands on the open garden on the 7thĀ floor, which is a very popular free photography spot.

2.Ā Suzhou IFS Tower

  • Location: Suzhou
  • Height: 450Ā m / 1,476Ā ft
  • Floors: 95
  • Completed Time: 2019
  • Ticket: CNY 180/USD 26 for thesightseeing floor on the 92ndĀ floor
Suzhou IFS Tower
Suzhou IFS Tower

This skyscraper is designed with the concept ofĀ “carp jumps over the dragon gate”, facing Jinji Lake. Its graceful arc, like a fish’s tail, extends from the water surface along the podium to the main tower.

The official viewing platform is on the 92ndĀ floor and offers a bird’s-eye view of the whole city, Jinji Lake and Yangcheng Lake.

3.Ā Shenzhen KK 100

  • Location: Shenzhen
  • Height: 442Ā m / 1,449Ā ft
  • Floors: 98
  • Completed Time: 2011
Shenzhen KK 100
Shenzhen KK 100

KK 100 is the second-tallest building in Shenzhen. Its appearance is like a water curtain cascading down. The height-to-width ratio reaches 9.5:1, the largest among the tallest skyscrapers in China.

At the sightseeing platform on the 96thĀ floor, the cityscape of both Shenzhen and Hong Kong can be appreciated, which is quite impressive. To get to the sightseeing platform, tourists need to dine or drink at the rooftop restaurant or bar on the 96thĀ floor or stay at the St. Regis Hotel inside the building.

4.Ā Nanjing Zifeng Tower

  • Location: Nanjing
  • Height: 450Ā m / 1,476Ā ft
  • Floors: 66
  • Completed Time: 2010
  • Ticket: CNY 60/USD 9 for observation deck on the 72ndĀ floor
Nanjing Zifeng Tower
Nanjing Zifeng Tower

Zifeng Tower has integrated the traditional Chinese culture elements. The exterior of the architecture isĀ in the shape of a coiled dragon. The unique triangular glass curtain wall spirals upwards along the tower like dragon scales, creating an image of “a giant dragon crossing the river”.

The main observation deckĀ on the 72ndĀ floorĀ is the best place to overlookĀ Nanjing. Xuanwu Lake, Zijin Mountain and the Yangtze River all come into sight.

5.Ā Shanghai Jin Mao Tower

  • Location: Shanghai
  • Height: 421Ā m / 1,380Ā ft
  • Floors: 88
  • Completed Time: 1999
  • Ticket: CNY 120/USD 17 for the observation deck on the 88thĀ floor; CNY 270 – 318/USD 39 – 46 for ā€œWalk in the Cloudsā€Ā project
Shanghai Jin Mao Tower
Shanghai Jin Mao Tower

Jin Mao Tower, together with Shanghai Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center, is renowned as the three-piece set in Shanghai.Ā All are the most famousĀ tallest buildings in China.

Viewing from the outside, itĀ looks like anĀ ancient Chinese pagodaĀ with an octagonal shape and a stepped contraction, symbolizing “continuous progress”. With a panoramic view of the city from the 88thĀ floor observation deck and the thrilling “Walk in the Clouds” outdoor walkway, Jimao Tower has become a classic choice for overlooking the metropolis.

How to Visit the Skyscrapers in China

Observation Deck Guide for Popular Skyscrapers

Name of Observation Decks
City
Price
Opening Hours
Unique Experience
The Top of Shanghai, Shanghai Tower
Shanghai
CNY 180/USD 26.13
08:30 – 22:00
A panoramic view of both banks of Huangpu River
Free Sky, Ping An International Finance Center
Shenzhen
CNY 200/USD 29.03
Fri. and Sat.: 10:00 – 21:00

Sun. – Thur.: 10:00 – 22:00

Fully transparent suspended glass observation deck, offer a distance view of Hong Kong
Observation Deck of Shanghai World Financial Center
Shanghai
CNY 180/USD 26.13
10:00 – 22:00
The ticket includes three observation decks with a high-altitude suspended glass walkway on the top floor
88th Observation Deck of Shanghai Jin Mao Tower
Shanghai
CNY 120/USD 17.42
08:3021:30

Ā 

Thrilling ā€œWalk in the Cloudsā€ project, overlook Lujiazui and Huangpu River
K11 Sky Garden, Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre
Guangzhou
free
10:00 – 22:00
Free panoramic view of the ā€œThree Towers Enclosing a Riverā€ in the CBD of Zhujiang New Town
Observation Deck of Nanjing Zifeng Tower
Nanjing
CNY 60/USD 8.71
09:00 – 22:00
360° glass curtain wall, offer a bird’s eye view of Xuanwu Lake, Yangtze River and Zijin Lake
Observation Deck of KK110
Shenzhen
CNY 230/USD 33.39
10:00 – 22:00
A panoramic view of Luohu and Futian districts in Shenzhen and Hong Kong
Sky100 Observation Deck, Hong Kong International Commerce Centre
Hong Kong
HKD 168 – 188/USD 24.39/27.29
10:00 – 20:30
An unobstructed view of entire Hong Kong and a distant view of Macao

Best Photography Spots for China’s Tallest Skylines

  • Beijing: Jinshan Park, Xiangshan Park, Beihai Park, CCTV Tower, Ruichen International Center
  • Shanghai: The Bund, Suhe Bay, Shenhua Financial Building, Waibaidu Bridge, Zhapulu Bridge
  • Shenzhen: Shenzhen Bay, Xiaowutong Mountain Viewing Platform, Nanshan Park, Talent Park
  • Hong Kong: The Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, Victoria Peak, and the ICC from the West Kowloon Cultural District, Kowloon Peak, Braemar Hill
  • Guangzhou: Baiyun Mountain, Flower City Square, Luhu Lake Scenic Area, Haixinsha Asian Games Park

FAQs about Skyscrapers in China

  • How Many of the World’s 10 Tallest Buildings Are in China?

As of 2026, China has 5 of the world’s top 10 tallest skyscrapers, which are Shanghai Tower, Ping An International Finance Center, Guangzhou CTF Finance Centr, Tianjin CTF Finance Centre and Beijing CITIC Tower.

  • What are the general best times for photographing skyline in China?

The golden period is 1 hour before sunset to 23:00 on a sunny day, when you can appreciate both the sunset and the dazzling night views. During this period, you’ll enjoy the gentle, warm light of the golden hour, followed by the stunning contrast of twilight, and finally the fully illuminated cityscape at night.

  • Which Chinese city has the most skyscrapers?

With 300 buildings exceeding 200 meters,Ā ShenzhenĀ is undoubtedly the top city.

  • Are there any mega-tall skyscrapers under construction in China?

Yes. The North Bund 91stĀ Block in Shanghai, T2 Tower of Xujiahui Center in Shanghai, Chengdu Greenland Shufeng 468, Hainan Center in Haikou are all under construction now.

  • Is it true that a 57-story building was constructed in 19 days? What is the principle?

Yes, it is true. It refers to the J57 Mini Sky City completed in 2015 in Changsha, which adopts the modular steel structure building technology. In brief, about 95% walls, pillars, floors, windows and doors are prefabricated in the factory. After shipping into the site, what the workers need to do is only assemble, just like building blocks. So it is very fast.

  • Why does China have the most supertall skyscrapers?

It is due to rapid urbanization, limited land resources, strong market demandĀ and world-leading architectural technology.

Explore the Skylines with China Xian Tour

The breathtaking dense skyscrapers in China have a great appeal to plenty of tourists. If you would like to explore them during your China tour. We are glad to customize a city exploration tour and include the skyline experience based on the cities you prefer. We will help reserve tickets to popular observation decks for you.

To enrich travel experience, our itinerary will also cover other iconic attractions inside the city. Our travel consultant will make every effort to meet all your requirements to guarantee you enjoy a perfect trip. Just contact China Xian TourĀ now.

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