Shanghai Tower: 120 floor Highest restaurant in the world

Traveling up to the very top of Shanghai Tower to dine at the highest restaurant in the world sounds like a dream for many. This tour offers not just a chance to enjoy a luxury lunch on the 120th floor, but also an opportunity to marvel at one of the most iconic skylines on the planet. Whether you’re a skyscraper enthusiast, a foodie seeking unforgettable views, or a visitor eager for a one-of-a-kind experience, this tour promises a blend of luxury, awe, and a touch of exclusivity.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are the record-breaking height of the restaurant, the breathtaking panoramic vistas, and the priority access through separate entrances that help sidestep long lines. However, some travelers have found the experience a bit crowded if not booked well in advance, and a review from Italy even pointed out that the bar area doesn’t fully offer the 360-degree views you might expect. Still, for those after a luxurious, memorable meal with a view, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate fine dining, impressive architecture, and want to tick a record-breaking experience off their bucket list.

Good To Know

• Highest restaurant in the world at 556.36 meters above ground
• Located on the 120th floor of Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building
• Offers spectacular views of Shanghai’s skyline
• Includes a luxury lunch with VIP access and skip-the-line entry
• A 2.5-hour experience perfect for a quick but memorable outing
• Suitable for private groups, with multilingual guides

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An Overview of the Shanghai Tower Experience

Standing at 632 meters, the Shanghai Tower is a marvel of modern architecture and the tallest building in China. For visitors, the highlight is undoubtedly the Tianzhijin Restaurant on the 120th floor, which holds the Guinness World Record for the “tallest restaurant in a building.” Imagine dining at 556 meters above ground, with some of the most spectacular city views possible. It’s an experience that’s as much about the atmosphere as the menu itself.

The building’s total area of 578,000 square meters and its sleek, twisting form make it a visual icon in Shanghai’s Pudong district. When you arrive for this tour, your guide will coordinate with the staff to give you separate entrance access, helping you bypass long lines—especially handy during peak hours. The duration is around 2.5 hours, which fits well into most travel itineraries, providing enough time to take in the views, enjoy a meal, and even catch the sunset if you visit later in the day.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Meeting Details

The tour begins at the Shanghai Tower, located at 501 Yincheng Middle Rd, Lujiazui, Pudong. The coordinates—31.2335, 121.5056—make it easy to find, whether you’re coming by metro, taxi, or walking. Your guide, who speaks both English and Chinese, will meet you here, providing a quick overview of what’s to come.

Sightseeing at the Shanghai Tower

Once inside, expect a seamless check-in process thanks to the skip-the-line privileges. The guide will likely share insights about the tower’s architecture, construction, and its significance as a global skyscraper. We loved the way guides could explain the engineering marvels that make the tower stand out, making the visit more than just sightseeing—it’s an educational experience as well.

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Sunset and City Views

Timing can make or break the experience. If you opt for an afternoon or early evening slot, you’ll be treated to the sunset over Shanghai. The views from the 120th floor are jaw-dropping, with the city’s skyline stretching as far as the eye can see. You’ll get stunning shots of the Huangpu River, the Bund, and the futuristic skyline of Pudong’s financial district.

Luxury Lunch at Tianzhijin Restaurant

The main event is dining at the Guinness World Record-holding restaurant. Sitting on the 120th floor, you’ll indulge in a luxury meal while gazing out through floor-to-ceiling windows. Reviewers mention that the restaurant is beautiful, though one noted that the bar area doesn’t fully provide a 360-degree panorama—something to keep in mind if panoramic views are your main priority. The experience is about more than just the food; it’s about the ambiance and the sensation of being so high above the city.

Cocktails and Final Views

After the meal, some tours include a cocktail session—a perfect way to toast your extraordinary experience. Many guests comment on how the views during sunset or at night are especially captivating, with Shanghai lit up like a Christmas tree.

The Experience from the Reviews

A mixed review from Italy highlights a common concern: some guests felt misled about the inclusiveness of the experience. Pierpaolo mentions that, despite paying for tickets, the staff hinted that the guide and guests could access the bar area for free, which might have caused some confusion. Also, he notes that the bar doesn’t fully offer the 360-degree view you might expect from such a height, so if panoramic photos are your goal, consider a ticket for the 118th floor instead.

In contrast, a traveler from Austria praised the “super location” with “no crowds”, emphasizing the value of having a private experience that makes the visit feel exclusive. The knowledgeable guides stood out and enhanced the experience for many, offering insights into the building’s design and the city’s development.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

• Book at least one day in advance; reservations are required, and availability can be limited.
• Choose your timing wisely—early evening allows for sunset views, while night visits reveal Shanghai’s glittering skyline.
• The tour duration is around 2.5 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
• Skip the line with the separate entrance, which is especially helpful during busy periods.
• Expect a private group experience—perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting a more intimate visit.
• As reviews suggest, be aware of the bar’s limited panoramic view if you’re after the full 360 experience.

Value and Who It Suits Best

This tour offers an extraordinary opportunity to dine at the world’s highest restaurant, with priority access and guided commentary. For travelers craving a luxurious, record-breaking experience with stunning views, it’s an excellent choice. The 2.5-hour format makes it suitable for a quick yet memorable outing, especially if you’re already exploring Shanghai’s skyline or planning a special occasion.

It’s especially ideal for those who value expert guides—many reviews mention guides that know their stuff—and are interested in architecture and engineering. The experience is less suitable for budget travelers, as it leans toward a premium price point, but the unique record-breaking aspect might justify the cost for many.

In summary, this experience delivers more than just a meal; it’s a high-altitude celebration of Shanghai’s modern architecture, with incredible views and VIP treatment that make it worth considering for an unforgettable occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply want a different perspective on Shanghai, this tour promises a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime feeling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the restaurant on the 120th floor accessible to all visitors?
Yes, the restaurant is open to all guests who reserve in advance. The tour includes skip-the-line access through a separate entrance, making the process smooth and efficient.

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience is approximately 2.5 hours, from meeting at the tower to returning after the meal and views. It fits nicely into most itineraries.

Do I need to make a reservation beforehand?
Absolutely. Reservations are required, and it’s recommended to book at least one day in advance to secure your preferred time slot.

Is this experience suitable during the daytime or evening?
Both options are available. An afternoon visit offers daytime views, while an evening slot provides stunning sunset or night-time city lights.

Are there any additional costs, such as for drinks?
The tour price generally includes the luxury lunch, but some reviewers mention that drinks like alcohol may not be included and could incur extra charges unless specified.

Can I expect to see a full 360-degree view at the bar?
The bar area might not provide a full 360-degree panorama, as noted by some guests. For a complete panoramic experience, consider tickets to the 118th floor observation deck.

Overall, this tour combines luxury dining, record-breaking architecture, and spectacular views into a memorable experience best suited for those who appreciate fine details, excellent guides, and a touch of exclusivity. It’s a remarkable way to see Shanghai from the top of one of the world’s tallest buildings.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby