Panoramic City Views & CultureJinMaoTower + Sightseeing Bus

Travelers exploring Shanghai often seek iconic views, cultural depth, and hassle-free transportation—and this tour promises just that. Combining a visit to the largest observation deck in China atop the JinMao Tower with the convenience of hop-on-hop-off sightseeing buses, it offers a well-rounded way to see the city from a high vantage point and explore its bustling streets effortlessly.

What we particularly like about this experience is the value for money: for one ticket, you get access to stunning 360° panoramic views, multiple routes covering key landmarks, and the chance to learn about Shanghai’s stories through onboard commentary. It feels ideal for travelers wanting an efficient overview, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a flexible schedule.

That said, some reviews hint at possible drawbacks—like the occasional disappointment with view quality due to dirty windows or the confusion over skywalk availability. It’s worth noting that the Skywalk might be closed in bad weather, so always check your booking details and weather forecast beforehand.

This combination is best suited for independent travelers, families, or first-timers eager to get a broad sense of Shanghai’s skyline and cultural highlights without the hassle of navigating public transport or sticking to rigid schedules.

Good To Know

• Unbeatable Value: One ticket grants access to two popular attractions—an observation deck and city bus routes.
• Stunning Views: The 88th-floor JinMao Tower provides 360° views from over 340 meters high.
• Flexible Exploration: Multiple routes with hop-on-hop-off flexibility make it easy to see key landmarks.
• Multilingual Commentary: Eight languages are available onboard, making the experience accessible to international visitors.
• Convenient Transfers: Seamless connections between the tower and buses minimize hassle.
• Weather Considerations: Skywalk access might be restricted during poor weather conditions, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The JinMao Tower Observation Deck

Standing at 340.1 meters, the JinMao Tower’s observation deck is the tallest and largest in China, covering 1,520 square meters. The experience begins with a swift ride in two high-speed elevators that reach the 88th floor in roughly 45 seconds, traveling at an impressive 9.1 meters per second. These elevators are designed to handle 33 visitors at a time, reducing wait times during busy periods.

Once you emerge onto the deck, you’ll be greeted by panoramic 360° views of Shanghai. The sightlines stretch across the city’s skyline, Huangpu River, and beyond. Many reviewers mention the beautifully designed corridors—which resemble art galleries—featuring neon accents and shimmering handrails that reflect the city lights. The hotel atrium beneath, with its 27-meter diameter, is frequently praised for its architectural uniqueness, described as a “shared space,” “golden ring,” and “time tunnel” by those who appreciate modern design.

Authenticity and Photo Opportunities

While the views are undoubtedly impressive, some visitors have expressed disappointment over dirty windows that hinder clear photography. One reviewer from France specifically mentioned the glass being not suitable for capturing nice photos, which might be a concern for keen photographers. Still, the experience of being so high up, gazing over one of China’s most vibrant cities, remains memorable.

The Skywalk and Weather

The Skywalk, which might be included in some packages, is noteworthy but may be closed due to weather conditions. If included, your booking confirmation will specify whether it’s available. As some reviews highlight, misleading communication about skywalk availability can cause frustration—so double-check the details when booking.

Shanghai Sightseeing Buses

The hop-on-hop-off buses are a highlight of this experience, offering an excellent way to cover a broad area of Shanghai without the stress of navigating busy streets. They run multiple routes, with 24-hour validity, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

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Route Highlights and Commentary

Routes include stops at the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, Oriental Pearl Tower, Nanjing Road, and Xintiandi. This makes it easy to combine sightseeing and shopping, or simply take in the city’s contrasts—modern skyscrapers alongside traditional lanes.

Many travelers appreciate the free sightseeing maps onboard and complimentary commentary on daytime routes that provide stories behind the landmarks. Night routes, when the city lights up, are especially popular, offering views of the illuminated skyline, including the dazzling neon of the Bund and the Lujiazui skyscrapers.

Practical Tips for Bus Travel

Tickets are affordable and can be purchased at kiosks or online. The buses depart every 20-60 minutes, so planning your day around the schedule is straightforward. Some reviews mention that children over 1.3 meters need an adult ticket, which is a small but important detail for families.

Passenger Experience

While the buses are generally praised for their convenience, some reviews highlight that delays or miscommunications can happen—particularly when it comes to Skywalk availability or last-minute schedule changes. But overall, most find them to be an effective way to see the city without the fatigue of constant walking or taxi rides.

Pros:

• The panoramic views from JinMao Tower are breathtaking, especially for first-time visitors.
• The multiple bus routes provide comprehensive coverage of Shanghai’s main attractions.
• The multi-language commentary makes it accessible to international travelers.
• The convenience of seamless transfers between the observation deck and bus stops saves time and effort.
• The flexibility of hop-on-hop-off tickets suits travelers with dynamic schedules.

Cons:

• Some reviews mention dirty windows affecting photography, which can be disappointing for picture-takers.
• The Skywalk might be closed unexpectedly due to weather, so it’s worth confirming before your visit.
• The ticket price, while reasonable considering the access, might feel steep for some if views are obscured or if skywalk access is limited.

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad snapshot of Shanghai, especially those who value spectacular city views and cultural insights without wasting time on complicated logistics. It’s also perfect for families or independent travelers seeking a flexible, all-in-one ticket to see the highlights.

If you’re someone who enjoys photo opportunities from high up and appreciates modern architecture and cityscapes, you’ll find this tour worthwhile. However, if crystal-clear photos or skywalk experiences are your priority, you might want to double-check current skywalk status or consider alternative towers like the Shanghai Tower.

This combined visit to JinMao Tower and the city’s sightseeing buses offers excellent value for those wanting a quick yet rundown of Shanghai. It’s a practical choice for travelers who prefer a door-to-door approach rather than piecing together multiple tickets and routes.

The stunning views and multi-lingual commentary make it accessible, while the flexible hop-on-hop-off system enables you to customize your day. Although some reviews highlight window cleanliness and weather-dependent skywalk closures, most agree that the overall experience captures the essence of Shanghai’s vibrant skyline.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, convenient, and scenic way to get your bearings in Shanghai, this tour will serve you well. Just remember to verify skywalk availability and be prepared for some potential window grime—those views are worth it anyway.

Is the observation deck at JinMao Tower the tallest in China?
Yes, it’s the highest and largest in China, standing at 340.1 meters tall with a 1520-square-meter viewing area.

How long does it take to reach the observation deck?
The elevators operate at 9.1 meters per second and can get you from the first floor to the 88th in about 45 seconds.

What does the ticket include?
One ticket provides access to JinMao Tower’s observation deck, and the sightseeing bus routes, with tickets valid for 24 hours.

Can I do the skywalk?
It might be available, but its availability is weather-dependent and subject to closure. Confirm your booking details and check weather forecasts.

Are the buses covered by the same ticket?
Yes, the hop-on-hop-off tickets are valid for all routes within 24 hours from activation.

What landmarks do the bus routes cover?
They include the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, Oriental Pearl Tower, Nanjing Road, and Xintiandi, among others.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children over 1.3 meters require an adult ticket. The buses and tower are generally suitable for families.

How do I purchase tickets?
Tickets can be bought at service kiosks, such as at Lujiazui, or online through official platforms.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Your passport, as it’s required for entry and booking verification.

To sum it up, this JinMao Tower plus sightseeing bus tour offers a balanced mix of spectacular city views, cultural insight, and flexible transportation. It’s especially suited for those eager to get an authentic, panoramic sense of Shanghai with minimal fuss. Just remember to check skywalk conditions and keep your camera lenses clean—you’ll want to capture those unforgettable cityscapes.

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