The Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC) is the second tallest skyscraper in Shanghai, standing as a global magnet in Lujiazui. This landmark building serves as both a financial hub and tourist attraction with observation decks. A proud symbol of Shanghai’s growth, it connects China to the world.
Shanghai World Financial Center Facts
- Address: No. 100, Century Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
- Designing Architect: Kohn Pedersen Fox architectural firm & Mori Building Corporation of Japan
- Type: Observation Decks & Towers, Modern Buildings & Landmarks
- Construction started in: 1997
- Completed: 2008
- Cost: 1.2 billion USD
- Height: 492 meters
- Floors: 101 above ground, 3 underground
The Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC) is the eighth tallest building in China and the twelfth tallest in the world. It has the highest observation deck in the world at 474 meters, offering magnificent views of Shanghai’s landmarks like the Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and Huangpu River.
History
The Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC) was designed by American firm Kohn Pedersen Fox and Japanese company Mori Building. Construction took 11 years, finishing in 2008. Originally, the top had a circular opening, but it was changed to a trapezoid due to concerns it resembled Japan’s rising sun symbol. This gave it the nickname “The Bottle Opener.”
Construction began in 1997 but faced delays. After redesigns, full-scale work started in 2005, progressing at 4 days per floor. It opened in 2008 with the world’s highest observation deck (474m). Its unique shape combines square and curved elements, inspired by the harmony of heaven and earth, making it a global landmark.
Building Layout
The Shanghai World Financial Center is a multi-purpose skyscraper with offices, a luxury hotel, observation decks, conference rooms, shopping/dining, and parking. Its square-shaped design covers 144,000 square meters. with 381,600 square meters. total space.
| 94-100F | Sightseeing |
| 79-93F | Park Hyatt Hotel |
| 7-77F | Offices |
| 3-5F | Meeting rooms |
| B2F ~ 3F | Shopping malls and restaurants |
Highlights & Experience You won’t Miss
Sightseeing Arena on 94F (423 meters / 1,388 feet)
The 94th floor Sky Arena (423m high) offers spectacular panoramic views of Shanghai along the Huangpu River. This 750㎡ space features an 8-meter-high ceiling and serves as a premium venue for corporate events, exhibitions, and fashion shows. Complete with a café and souvenir shop, it combines breathtaking scenery with versatile function space.
Sightseeing Observatory on 97F (439 meters / 1,440 feet)
The 97th floor Sky Walk (439m high) boasts an innovative open skylighted ceiling that can fully retract in good weather, transforming the space into an aerial bridge. This glass-roofed design allows visitors to photograph Shanghai’s skyline while enjoying fresh air and an extraordinary “walking in the clouds” experience.
Sightseeing Skywalk on 100F (474 meters / 1,555 feet)
The 100th floor Sky Walk is a spectacular 55-meter-long glass corridor suspended 474 meters high – once the world’s highest observation deck. With three transparent glass walkways, visitors experience the thrilling sensation of walking in midair, seeing the Oriental Pearl Tower at eye level and tiny streets below. Day or night, it offers breathtaking views of Shanghai beneath your feet.
Experience other “Tallest” Facilities
After visiting the 474m observation deck, experience the world’s highest hotel – Park Hyatt Shanghai (floors 79-93). Enjoy luxury stays with panoramic views, dine at the globe’s highest Chinese restaurant (93F, 416m), and swim in the planet’s highest pool (85F, 366m). This vertical wonderland offers unmatched sky-high experiences.
Touring Tips
The must-see attraction is the 100th floor’s 55-meter glass Sky Walk, offering breathtaking city views from 474 meters up – though expect wait times during peak hours. For budget-conscious visitors, the 91F’s 100 Century Avenue Bar provides free panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling windows, with affordable drinks starting around ¥50.
The best viewing experiences are at sunset when the city glows golden or at night when lights twinkle across Shanghai. Note that visibility drops significantly in rainy or foggy conditions. The 94th floor’s spacious observation hall hosts special exhibitions, while the 97th floor features a unique open-air design perfect for photography.
How to get to Shanghai World Financial Center
By Metro
Take Metro Line 2 to either Lujiazui (Exit 6) or Dongchang Road (Exit 4), then walk 10 minutes to Shanghai World Financial Center.
By Bus
- Take bus 583, 799, or 939 and get off at Huayuan Shiqiaolu Dongtailu Station.
- Take bus Lujiazui Financial City Line 2 or Lujiazui Financial City Loop Line and get off at Dongtailu Shijidadao Station.
- Take bus 01, 795, 798, 992, Lujiazui Financial City Line 3, or Lujiazui Financial City Line 4, Tunnel Line 3 or Line 6 and get off at Shiji Dadao Pudong Nanlu Station.
- Take bus 791, 870, 961, or 985 and get off at Lujiazui Huanlu Dongtailu Station.
By ferry
From the Bund, take ferry to Dongchang Road Pier and then walk 10 minutes to the building.
FAQs
While SWFC’s observation decks (94F-100F) are temporarily closed, the building remains open with shops, restaurants, and hotels operating normally.
Certainly! While the observation decks are temporarily closed, you can still enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from Century 100 Restaurant on the 91st floor. This elegant dining venue offers gourmet cuisine alongside floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing Shanghai’s skyline—a perfect alternative to combine fine food with iconic vistas.