Traveling to Shanghai offers the thrill of gazing at a city that mixes ultra-modern skyscrapers with historic neighborhoods. One of the most popular ways to get a panoramic view of this bustling metropolis is by visiting the Jin Mao Tower’s observation deck, paired with a flexible hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus. This combination promises a convenient, cost-effective way to see the city’s highlights from above and navigate its streets with ease.
While the Jin Mao Tower’s sky deck is often praised for its stunning views, some travelers find the experience somewhat rushed or underwhelming, especially if expectations lean toward a deeper experience. The sightseeing bus component adds flexibility and covers many major attractions, making it ideal for those looking to get their bearings or explore at their own pace. This tour appeals to visitors seeking a practical introduction to Shanghai’s diverse neighborhoods, with a few caveats about the tour’s depth and value.
Key Points
- Unbeatable combination: One ticket covers two iconic experiences—viewing from Jin Mao Tower and riding the sightseeing bus.
- Spectacular views: 360° vistas from 340 meters up offer some of the best cityscape photo opportunities.
- Flexible exploration: 24-hour hop-on, hop-off routes allow you to tailor your sightseeing.
- Multilingual commentary: Eight languages help visitors learn about Shanghai’s landmarks and culture.
- Hassle-free transfer: Seamless connections between attractions reduce stress and save time.
- Mixed reviews: While some praise the views and convenience, others note certain frustrations like cleanliness and tour accuracy.
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Contents
- Key Points
- The Jin Mao Tower Observation Deck: The Heart of the Experience
- The Sightseeing Bus: A Practical Way to Discover Shanghai
- Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?
- Practical Tips for Visitors
- Who Will Love This Tour?
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- Our Top Picks in Shanghai
- More City Tours in Shanghai
- More Tour Reviews in Shanghai
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Shanghai we have recnetly reviewed
The Jin Mao Tower Observation Deck: The Heart of the Experience
Perched on the 88th floor, the Jin Mao Tower’s observation deck is a highlight for anyone wanting a bird’s-eye view of Shanghai. Standing at 340.1 meters, it holds the title as China’s tallest and largest observation deck, and it’s no small feat for architecture fans. The area spans 1520 square meters, giving plenty of space for visitors to marvel at the cityscape and capture photos.
The elevator ride alone is a thrill—two high-speed lifts zip up at 9.1 meters per second, whisking you from the lobby on the B1 level to the sky deck in just 45 seconds. As you ascend, the windows begin revealing glimpses of Shanghai’s sprawling urban landscape beneath, culminating in a panoramic experience that’s hard to match. Many reviews mention the stunning views as a highlight, and you’ll find yourself tempted to snap hundreds of photos of the skyline, the Huangpu River, and the iconic skyscrapers of Lujiazui.
Inside, the sky deck features enormous glass windows offering 360° views, with the added thrill of gazing straight down at the hotel atrium, which has been called a “shared space,” a “golden ring,” and a “time tunnel” by architects. The atrium itself is a sight to behold: 27 meters in diameter, with 28 circular porch handrails shimmering neon lights. Visitors often comment on how beautiful and photogenic the corridors are, making it a worthwhile stop for art lovers and architecture buffs.
However, some reviews suggest that the quality of the windows can be an issue—one traveler from France mentioned that the glass was quite dirty, which might interfere with photos. Others feel that the experience can be brief, with some tiring quickly from the crowd and the limited space.
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The Sightseeing Bus: A Practical Way to Discover Shanghai
Complementing the tower visit, the Shanghai sightseeing bus offers a hop-on, hop-off service covering key districts and attractions. With five routes and 24-hour validity, it’s a flexible choice for travelers who want to see the city without the hassle of navigation or multiple tickets.
The buses connect major sites like the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, Oriental Pearl Tower, Nanjing Road, and Xintiandi. Whether you want to enjoy the modern skyline along the Huangpu River or explore the historic lanes of old Shanghai, these routes provide a convenient, efficient method. The buses run at intervals of 20 to 60 minutes, and you can hop off anytime to explore on foot.
Onboard, travelers are given free sightseeing maps and some routes include complimentary commentary in multiple languages, adding context to the sights. Many enjoy the night routes, where Shanghai’s lights cast a glow over the city’s skyscrapers and historic districts, creating a memorable experience for photographers and night owls alike.
Some reviews point out that the value for money is good, especially given the 24-hour ticket, making it a smart choice for independent travelers trying to maximize their time. However, a few travelers mention misleading information—such as one review from the UK noting that the Skywalk was closed when they arrived, despite their booking mentioning it. Always check for the latest updates on the tour’s offerings before booking.
Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?
The combined ticket for the Jin Mao Tower and sightseeing bus offers good value, especially for travelers keen to get a broad sense of Shanghai efficiently. The observation deck itself can be expensive if purchased separately, but bundling it with the bus makes the whole experience more affordable.
That said, reviews vary. While some find the views worth the price, others think the experience is somewhat superficial. Several travelers, including one from Italy, suggest arriving early—about an hour and a half before sunset—to beat crowds and get better photos. The cost might seem high to budget travelers, but considering the panoramic vistas and easy city transportation, many agree it’s a practical option.
The bus ticket is priced affordably and offers the flexibility most travelers appreciate. Plus, the night routes provide a different perspective on Shanghai’s illuminated skyline, often praised as the most charming part of the tour.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Book in advance—especially the Jin Mao Tower Skywalk, which requires a reservation at least 3 days prior.
- Bring your passport, as it’s needed for entry.
- The Skywalk can be closed due to weather, so check your confirmation email for updates.
- Arrive early—about 90 minutes before sunset—to maximize your experience and avoid crowds.
- The e-tickets are valid for 24 hours, so plan your schedule accordingly.
- To get the best photos, consider visiting during off-peak hours or at sunset, when the lighting is softer.
- If you’re prone to motion sickness, note that the elevators are very fast, which might be unsettling for some.
- For the sightseeing bus, redeem your electronic vouchers at designated kiosks like People’s Square, the Bund, or the Oriental Pearl Tower.
- The hotels near the city center are ideal launch points for this tour.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is a solid choice for first-time visitors wanting a quick, panoramic overview of Shanghai’s skyline. It’s especially suitable for families, solo travelers, or small groups looking for convenience, as the combined ticket reduces hassle and offers good value.
If you’re interested in architecture and city views, the Jin Mao Tower’s sky deck won’t disappoint. The bus component suits travelers who prefer independent exploration without the worry of navigating public transport or hailing cabs.
However, if you’re after deep cultural insights or a more immersive experience, this tour might feel a bit superficial or rushed. Some reviewers mention that the views are beautiful but brief, and the window cleanliness can be a letdown.
The Sum Up
In the end, the Jin Mao Tower + Sightseeing Bus tour provides a practical and scenic way to get a comprehensive snapshot of Shanghai’s skyline and neighborhoods. The stunning panoramic views from the tower are a highlight, especially for photography lovers. Meanwhile, the bus routes offer flexibility and coverage that suit independent explorers eager to tick off major sights at their own pace.
This tour is best suited for visitors who prioritize convenience and want a cost-effective way to experience both the towering skyline and the city’s bustling streets. While some may find the experience a bit rushed or the views somewhat marred by dirty windows, many reviewers appreciate the value, the views, and the ease of transportation.
If you’re in Shanghai for a short stay, and want a balanced mix of iconic sights and relaxed exploration, this tour could be a worthwhile addition to your itinerary. Just remember to check weather conditions and book ahead to make the most of your visit.
Panoramic City Views & CultureJinMaoTower + Sightseeing Bus
“Costo troppo alto per L’esperienza”
FAQ
Do I need to bring my passport?
Yes, your passport is required for entry at Jin Mao Tower, and you’ll need it when booking and checking in.
Can I buy tickets on the day of the tour?
It’s recommended to book at least 3 days in advance, especially for the Skywalk. Tickets are available at designated kiosks or online.
How long does the elevator ride take?
The elevators ascend at 9.1 meters per second, reaching the 88th floor in just 45 seconds.
Is the observation deck crowded?
During peak times, yes. Arriving early or during off-peak hours can help you enjoy a quieter experience.
What if the Skywalk is closed?
The Skywalk may be temporarily closed due to weather. You’ll be notified via email, and your booking will be processed within 3 days.
How flexible are the sightseeing bus routes?
You can hop on and off at any designated stop within the 24-hour ticket validity period, giving you control over your sightseeing schedule.
Are there audio guides?
Some routes include complimentary commentary in multiple languages, providing background on landmarks.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are advisable, and check the weather forecast to dress appropriately for outdoor viewing.
What’s the best time to visit the Jin Mao Tower?
Sunset offers particularly stunning views, but arriving early in the day helps avoid crowds.
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children over 1.3 meters in height require an adult ticket. The observation deck is generally family-friendly.
This tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to see Shanghai from above and explore its streets. It balances convenience, affordability, and memorable views, making it a worthwhile choice for many travelers—just keep expectations realistic, and plan ahead for the best experience.
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