Experts' Choice Award Oriental Pearl Tower (Dongfang Mingzhu)
What the experts agree on
This iconic 468m concrete tower with three pearl-shaped spheres divides opinion but commands attention. Stunning Bund views and nostalgic 1990s futurism make it Shanghai's boldest landmark, though its utilitarian design won't appeal to everyone.
Fodor's "Looking like a stucture straight out of The Jetsons, the Oriental Pearl Tower was built when much of Pudong was still farmland." Full review
Lonely PlanetTop choice
"Love it or hate it, it’s hard to be indifferent to this 468m-tall poured-concrete tripod tower." Full review
Michelin Guide 1 Star
"The unusual silhouette of the Pearl of the Orient tower (1994, 468m) rises in three columns."
i
The revolving restaurant offers expansive 360° views.
Atlas Obscura "The once highest point in China blends symbolic design with a kick of adrenaline. " Full review
Frommer's "The earliest symbol of the new China, this hideous gray tower with three tapering levels of pink spheres (meant to resemble pearls) still holds a special place in many a local heart." Full review
Independent "The tower looks like a space rocket ready to launch and is one of China’s tallest structures. From up here, you can gaze down on the Bund"
