Pudong's Lujiazui district has the densest cluster of tall buildings in China, including Shanghai Tower at 632 meters, the Shanghai World Financial Center at 492 meters and Jin Mao Tower at 421 meters. The best views of the cluster are from across the river in Puxi, where you can see the whole skyline rather than stand inside it.
Observation decks versus hotel bars
Observation decks on the towers give the highest views and the most dramatic perspectives, including the glass floor on the World Financial Center and the skylight shaft in Jin Mao. Hotel and restaurant bars on the upper floors of Puxi buildings give a lower but wider view, usually with a seat, a drink and no queue. For a first visit, one observation deck by day and one riverside bar at night is a good combination.
When to go
The skyline is most impressive from about thirty minutes before sunset until an hour after. Between roughly 6:30 and 11 p.m. the Pudong towers are lit and the Bund facades are illuminated as well. Air quality matters; on a clear day you can see the whole curve of the river, and on a hazy day the towers disappear above the tenth floor.
Practical notes
Observation decks charge admission and often sell timed slots; weekdays are calmer. Rooftop bars typically impose a minimum spend rather than a cover. Dress codes are casual but not beachwear. Book a table for sunset at least a day ahead, and if you are only going for the view, arrive twenty minutes before sunset and leave before the crowd arrives.
