Shanghai Tower: 120 floor Highest restaurant in the world

Traveling to the top of Shanghai Tower for a meal may sound like a fantasy, but this tour makes it a reality. With its impressive height and record-breaking restaurant, it offers a unique way to experience one of China’s most iconic skyscrapers. We’ve reviewed the experience based on actual guest feedback and the detailed itinerary, so you can decide if this luxury outing is right for you.

What makes this tour stand out are the breathtaking views from the 120th floor, the chance to dine at the world’s tallest restaurant, and the opportunity to skip the lines with a dedicated entrance. We also appreciate how the experience balances impressive high-rise luxury with authentic local insights offered by engaging guides. Of course, a potential drawback is that some reviews mention the cost of drinks and the limited panoramic coverage at the bar, which might influence your choices.

This experience suits travelers craving spectacular city vistas, architecture enthusiasts, and those wanting a luxurious yet accessible way to see Shanghai from above. If you’re after a memorable, record-breaking meal combined with city sightseeing, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Good To Know

• Tallest Building in China: The Shanghai Tower reaches 632 meters with 127 floors.
• Record-Breaking Restaurant: The Tianzhijin Restaurant on the 120th floor holds the Guinness World Record for the highest restaurant.
• Spectacular Views: Expect 360-degree vistas of Shanghai, perfect for photography and awe.
• Luxury Dining: The restaurant offers a fine dining experience at an unmatched height.
• Skip the Lines: A separate entrance saves precious time and adds comfort.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable hosts provide insights during sunset and cocktail stops.
• Timing & Duration: The tour lasts around 2.5 hours, ideal for a relaxed yet comprehensive visit.
• Group Size & Accessibility: Private groups with wheelchair access ensure a personalized experience.

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An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Location & Starting Point

Your journey begins at the base of the Shanghai Tower, at 501 Yincheng Middle Rd in Lujiazui, Pudong. This central location in Shanghai’s financial district makes it easy to access, whether you’re staying nearby or arriving via public transport. The provided coordinates (31.233518600463867, 121.505615234375) pinpoint the exact spot, helpful if you’re navigating with a map or ride-share app.

The Tower & Its Significance

Standing at 632 meters, the Shanghai Tower is China’s tallest building and the second tallest in the world. It’s a marvel of modern architecture with 127 above-ground floors. The tour focuses on the upper levels, where you’ll experience the highest restaurant in the world — a Guinness World Record holder at 556.36 meters. This height surpasses Dubai’s Burj Khalifa’s At.Mosphere restaurant, which was previously the tallest at 441.3 meters, making the Shanghai Tower a true icon of innovation.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Sightseeing & Sunset at the Tower

The tour kicks off with a visit to the tower itself, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Shanghai’s skyline—an essential experience for any visitor. As the sun begins to set, the city’s lights flicker on, creating a perfect backdrop for photos. This time of day is often highlighted by guests for its “magical” atmosphere, especially with the city bathed in golden hues. The guide, often bilingual in English and Chinese, offers insights into the architecture and the city’s development, making the experience both scenic and educational.

The Restaurant Experience

On the 120th floor, the Tianzhijin Restaurant officially holds the record for the highest restaurant in the world. The space, while impressive, is often described as a bit limited in terms of 360-degree views from the bar area—one reviewer noted that “the bar didn’t cover the full panorama.” However, you’ll still be treated to exceptional vistas of Shanghai’s sprawling cityscape.

The restaurant’s height (556.36 meters) means diners are literally above most of the city, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows revealing an expansive view—a highlight that many guests mention. The dining experience is designed for comfort and luxury, with a focus on quality cuisine and a unique setting. Keep in mind that drinks are an additional expense; a reviewer shared that a Coke cost 8 RMB and that rum was not included, so be prepared for extra charges if you want a drink.

Sunset & Cocktail Time

Following your meal, you’ll have the chance to enjoy cocktails while soaking in the sunset—an activity often praised for its romantic and relaxing vibe. The guides typically share interesting tidbits about the city’s skyline, adding context to the visual feast. This part of the tour offers a quieter moment to appreciate the engineering marvel beneath your feet and the sprawling metropolis beyond.

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The Practicalities

Skip-the-Line Entry

A major benefit of booking through this tour is the separate entrance that allows you to bypass long queues. This is especially valuable given the popularity of the Shanghai Tower, which can get crowded. We found this aspect particularly helpful, saving time and reducing the hassle of waiting.

Duration & Flexibility

The entire experience lasts around 2.5 hours, a comfortable length that fits well into a busy day of sightseeing. The tour is offered as a private group, with options to reschedule or cancel up to 24 hours in advance—giving flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Accessibility & Language

The tour is wheelchair accessible and guided by hosts who speak both English and Chinese, making it suitable for international visitors. For those traveling solo or in small groups, this private setup enhances the overall comfort and personalized feel.

The Value of the Experience

When you consider the ticket price, it’s essential to evaluate what you’re getting: a record-breaking restaurant at the top of one of the world’s tallest buildings, spectacular sunset views, and a guided explanation of Shanghai’s skyline. While some reviews mention that drinks are pricey and that the bar doesn’t offer a full panoramic view, the unique vantage point more than compensates.

Compared to other observation decks or dining options, this experience combines luxury, exclusivity, and record-breaking stature—offering a memorable highlight in Shanghai. The opportunity to see the city from an altitude surpassing 550 meters makes this a compelling choice for those seeking something beyond the usual sightseeing.

Authentic Insights from Guests

One guest from Italy expressed disappointment, mentioning that “the bar didn’t cover the 360 degrees of the panorama” and that a normal ticket on the 118th floor might offer a more complete and economical experience. This honest feedback highlights that, although the restaurant is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it might not suit everyone’s expectations for panoramic viewing.

On the flip side, a traveler from Austria called it a “super location” with “no people,” emphasizing how the experience can be surprisingly private and peaceful. This underscores the value of booking in advance to avoid crowds and enjoy an uninterrupted view.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a rare chance to dine at the world’s tallest restaurant, perched high above Shanghai’s skyline, with breathtaking vistas that are hard to beat. It combines luxury dining, impressive architecture, and the thrill of standing atop a building that’s a feat of engineering.

Perfect for architecture lovers, luxury travelers, and anyone eager to see Shanghai from above, this experience delivers a sense of achievement and awe. While the drinks may add to the bill and the panoramic coverage from the bar might be limited, the overall sense of standing on the 120th floor, with the city sprawling beneath, is unforgettable.

If you’re after a high-altitude dining experience that’s both exclusive and visually stunning, this tour is a strong contender. Just plan ahead with reservations and be prepared for a little splurge—it’s a rare moment of luxury at the top of China’s tallest skyscraper.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 2.5 hours, allowing plenty of time for sightseeing, dining, and enjoying the sunset.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for guests with mobility needs.

Can I skip the line?
Yes, the tour includes a separate entrance, which helps avoid long queues, especially during peak hours.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Absolutely. The restaurant requires reservations, and booking at least one day ahead is recommended to secure your spot.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides communicate in both English and Chinese, providing clear explanations during the experience.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, beverages like cocktails and alcohol are extra, and guests have reported that they can be pricey, so budget accordingly.

Is the experience good for sunset views?
Yes, many guests find the sunset time to be the most enchanting part of the experience, with stunning lighting and cityscape views.

Can I visit the observation deck without dining?
Yes, there are tickets available for the observation deck on other floors, but this specific experience combines dining and sightseeing at the highest restaurant.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is appropriate; since you’ll be dining, dress comfortably but elegantly to match the upscale setting.

In summary, visiting the Shanghai Tower’s highest restaurant offers a rare blend of record-breaking height, luxury, and spectacular city views. It’s an experience designed for those looking to elevate their Shanghai visit—literally and figuratively—and create memories that stand high above the city’s hustle.

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