The Oriental Pearl TV Tower

The Oriental Pearl TV Tower

Located in Pudong park in Lujiazui, Shanghai, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower is surrounded by the Yangpu Bridge from the northeastern side and the Nanpu Bridge on the southwest. This creates an image popularly referred to as the “twin dragons playing with pearls” by the locals. The site attracts thousands every year and is a great photographic opportunity. The Oriental Pearl TV Tower is the world’s third tallest TV & radio tower and is 468 meters in height. The only two similar towers surpassing the Oriental Pearl are in Toronto, Canada and Moscow, Russia.

More than its height or the fact that it connects two bridges to form a unique image, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower is best known for its unique architecture. Three slanting stanchions support the tower’s base and three nine-meter wide columns surround the eleven steel spheres strung vertically across the tower’s center. Three large spheres, known as the space module, five smaller spheres and three decorative spheres on the tower base all combine to give an impression of pearls shining on a jade plate. The tower is located on a rich green lawn, which contributes to this lovely effect.

The most interesting aspect of this architecture is that these spheres actually house a variety of activity centers, entertainment arenas and recreational joints. The inner tower houses a recreational center, while the tower’s pedestal houses the Shanghai Municipal History Museum. A Space City is located inside the large lower sphere. A clear day provides magnificently panoramic views, from here up to the Yangtze River. The tower base is home to a sci-fi city. The topmost pearl sphere contains a rotating restaurant and retail stores. The five smaller spheres are part of a small 25-room hotel.

The Oriental Pearl TV Tower is heavily illuminated at night, creating a 3D lighting effect seen from very far away. Combining 21st century architectural and engineering technology to commemorate the historical pearl culturing in China, this tower’s main purpose is to act as a TV and radio station tower, servicing nine television channels and ten FM radio channels.

Visiting Shanghai requires some leisurely time, because the fast paced city doesn’t feel so fast for a tourist. Longer stays in Shanghai are advised and promoted by Shanghai serviced apartments for accommodation and other luxury services. The Somerset Xu Hui is an excellent choice for a serviced residence in Shanghai.