Nestled along the bustling banks of the Huangpu River in Shanghai’s Pudong district, the Oriental Pearl Tower is not just a TV tower but a symbol of China’s rapid modernization and its blend of futuristic aspirations with rich tradition. Since its completion in 1994, this iconic tower has dominated Shanghai’s skyline with its unique structure and has become one of the city’s most visited tourist attractions. Here’s a deeper look at what makes this tower so cool.
#### Architectural Splendor
Designed by the Shanghai Modern Architectural Design Co. Ltd., standing at an impressive height of 468 meters (1,535 feet), the Oriental Pearl Tower was once the tallest structure in China until it was surpassed by the Shanghai World Financial Center in 2007. The design is modernist futurism at its best, inspired by a verse from a Tang Dynasty poem – “large and small pearls dropping on a jade plate,” which perfectly captures the essence of its look; large and small spheres punctuate the skyline.
The structure features eleven spheres supported by three enormous columnar legs that are embedded deep into the earth. These legs are connected to smaller rods which stabilizes the entire structure against strong winds and earthquakes – an essential feature for skyscrapers in Shanghai.
#### Multifunctional Spaces
Inside, the Oriental Pearl Tower is more than just an architectural wonder; it is a multipurpose marvel featuring observation decks, a shopping mall, a hotel (the Space Hotel), restaurants including a revolving restaurant, and exhibition facilities. It also houses broadcasting studios and even an urban history museum which tells the story of Shanghai through various multimedia displays.
#### Vertigo-Inducing Observation Decks
One of its most famous attractions are its observation decks offering unparalleled views of Shanghai. The tower has three main observation levels: at 263 meters (the Space Module), 259 meters (Sightseeing Galleria), and 90 meters (Space City). The highest viewing platform stands at 350 meters providing visitors with breathtaking panoramic views that extend out to include both old and new parts of this massive city.
For those seeking thrilling experiences, there’s even a transparent observatory deck that makes you feel as if you’re floating above the city. It’s an exhilarating experience not meant for faint-hearted!
#### Entertainment and Dining High Above Ground
Adding to these exciting features is its revolving restaurant located at about 267 meters high in one of its lower spheres. This venue offers diners spectacular views that slowly unfold as it makes one complete rotation every two hours — providing a diverse view of varying aspects from high above ground level while enjoying sumptuous meals.
Moreover, periodic light shows illuminate this towering edifice at night with vibrant LED sequences making it glow like neon-lit sculpture – adding another layer to its coolness factor after sundown!
#### Educational Yet Entertaining
The Oriental Pearl Tower also serves educational purposes with facilities like “Shanghai Municipal History Museum” located within its basement which showcases artifacts that paint vivid pictures from different periods in Shanghai’s history from ancient times up through today including colonial occupation periods and revolutionary phases leading up into what we recognize now as modern day China.
#### Conclusion
Visiting or viewing from afar, your trip to Shanghai wouldn’t be complete without experiencing or seeing one of Asia’s most iconic landmarks – The Oriental Pearl Tower. Its distinctive architecture makes it stand out not only within Pudong’s skyline but also among world towers due to unique design elements aimed at reflecting Chinese culture intertwined with cutting-edge technology making it indeed ‘so cool’. Whether you’re looking up from below or gazing down from above within one if its many levels — this towering spectacle continues to amaze locals alike along with travelers worldwide ensuring they capture memories worth cherishing permanently!