Shanghai World Financial Center

Historical Overview
Construction began in 1997, with over 10,000 workers involved in erecting this architectural marvel. Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF), the tower’s design blends Chinese cosmology (a square base representing Earth and arcs symbolizing Heaven) with cutting-edge engineering. In 2008, its observation decks opened to the public, instantly becoming a must-visit attraction. Key milestones include its LEED Platinum certification in 2018 for sustainable design and hosting iconic events like the Vertical Sky Marathon.

Structural Layout
The tower integrates office, hotel (Park Hyatt), retail, and observation zones:

• Floors 94: Main observation hall at 423 meters, featuring a 750㎡ space with 8-meter ceilings, a café, and souvenir shops.
• Floors 97: A floating sky bridge at 439 meters with retractable glass roofs, offering unobstructed daytime views.
• Floors 100: The pinnacle Sky Walk, a 55-meter suspended corridor with three glass-floor sections, providing vertigo-inducing vistas of Shanghai’s skyline.
  Supporting facilities include high-speed elevators (8 m/s) and wind dampers on the 90th floor to stabilize swaying.

Major Attractions

1. Sky Walk (100F): Walk on air above Shanghai, with glass floors revealing streets, cars, and the Bund’s historic architecture.
2. Sky Bridge (97F): An open-air promenade with sliding glass ceilings, ideal for sunset photography.
3. Observation Hall (94F): A spacious lounge with telescopes, interactive exhibits, and seasonal art installations (e.g., spring “Butterfly Waltz” displays).
4. LED Light Show: Evening projections on the tower’s façade during festivals like Christmas and Lunar New Year.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic Route (1–2 hours):
   Take the high-speed elevator to 94F → Stroll through the observation hall → Ascend to 97F’s Sky Bridge → Experience the 100F Sky Walk.
   Highlights: Skyline photography and glass-floor thrills.

2. Extended Route (2–3 hours):
   Begin at 94F for coffee and souvenir shopping → Visit seasonal exhibitions → Capture sunset at 97F → Night views from 100F.
   Highlights: Cultural displays and golden-hour photography.

3. Comprehensive Route (Half-Day):
   Combine the Extended Route with a guided tour (available via the official website) → Attend a themed event (e.g., vertical marathon, winter wonderland).
   Highlights: Behind-the-scenes access and exclusive activities.

Ticket Purchase

• Online: Book via the official website (http://www.swfc-shanghai.com/) or platforms like Ctrip and Tongcheng (adults ¥135–180; students/seniors ¥90–120).
• On-Site: Limited tickets available; queues peak during holidays.
• Free Entry: Children under 1.0m, birthday visitors (ID required), and disabled guests.

Transportation

• Subway: Line 2 to Lujiazui Station (Exit 6), 5-minute walk to Dongtai Road entrance.
• Bus: Routes 985, 870, 01, 454, 961, or 798 to Lujiazui Station.
• Taxi: Direct to Shanghai World Financial Center.

Best Time & Tips

• Peak Hours: Avoid 10 AM–2 PM; visit weekdays for quieter crowds.
• Weather: Clear days offer the best visibility (autumn/spring ideal).
• Essentials:
  • Bring a jacket (temperatures drop 5–10°C at height).
  • Wear sturdy shoes for glass floors.
  • Check the official website for seasonal events (e.g., summer “Beer Festival,” winter light shows).
• Prohibited Items: Drones, large bags, and selfie sticks.