12 Must-Visit Buildings in China for Every Architecture Lover

China is home to some of the world’s most magnificent buildings. From towering skyscrapers to historical palaces, these structures reflect the nation’s rich history and bold architectural ambition.

Here’s a curated guide to 12 must-visit buildings in China, detailing what makes each unique.

1. Shanghai Tower

Highlights

1. Observation Deck (Level 118): Get a 360° view of Shanghai from one of the highest observation decks in the world, at a staggering 561 meters.

2. Sky Lobbies: Beautifully designed lounges on multiple floors offer space to relax while soaking in the skyline.

3. Green Building Experience: Interactive displays explain the tower’s eco-friendly features, such as rainwater harvesting and wind turbines.

4. Cloud 9 Bar: Unwind at one of the highest bars globally, offering signature cocktails and unbeatable views.

Architecture

• Designed by Gensler, Shanghai Tower features a unique twisting shape that reduces wind loads.

• The double-skin façade creates an insulating buffer zone, enhancing energy efficiency.

• At 632 meters, it is the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world.

Facilities

• Restrooms and seating areas are available on major floors.

• Souvenir shops offering themed merchandise.

• Cafés and lounges are scattered throughout.

Accessibility

• Fully wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.

• Braille elevator panels and guided assistance are available.

Costs Involved

• Observation Deck: ¥180 (INR 2,100 approx.)

• VIP Entry: ¥300 (INR 3,500 approx.)

Location & How to Get There:

Address:501 Yincheng Middle Rd, Lujiazui, Pudong, Shanghai

Metro: Line 2 to Lujiazui Station, a short walk from Exit 6.

Taxi: Approx. ¥20–¥40 from central Shanghai.

Pro Tips

• Arrive early for sunset views.

• Try the interactive AR binoculars on the 118th floor.

• Avoid weekends for a quieter experience.

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2. The Forbidden City – Beijing

Highlights

1. Palace Museum: Explore China’s imperial history through over a million artifacts.

2. Meridian Gate & Hall of Supreme Harmony: Don’t miss the grand entrances and the throne room of Chinese emperors.

3. Imperial Gardens: Wander the tranquil gardens once enjoyed by the royal family.

Architecture

• Built during the Ming Dynasty (1406–1420), it’s the world’s largest palace complex.

• Symmetrical layout based on ancient feng shui principles.

• Features yellow glazed roofs, red walls, and intricate wooden carvings.

Facilities

• Audio guides in multiple languages.

• Rest areas, eateries, and bookshops.

• On-site museum and art exhibitions.

Accessibility

• Most areas are wheelchair accessible.

• Shuttle buses are available for easier transport within.

Costs Involved

• General Admission: ¥60 (off-season), ¥80 (peak season)

• Palace Museum Special Exhibition: Additional ¥20–¥40

Location & How to Get There

Address: 4 Jingshan Front St, Dongcheng, Beijing

Metro: Line 1 to Tiananmen East or Tiananmen West stations.

Pro Tips

• Book online in advance (limited entries per day).

• Closed on Mondays.

• Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.

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3. Canton Tower – Guangzhou

Highlights

1. Bubble Tram: Ride in transparent cabins that circle the building’s rooftop edge.

2. Sky Drop: Experience the world’s highest vertical free-fall amusement ride.

3. Observation Deck: Panoramic views of Guangzhou at 488 meters.

Architecture

• The Canton Tower was designed by Mark Hemel and Barbara Kuit.

• A slim-waisted structure symbolizes femininity.

• An LED lighting system creates a nighttime spectacle.

Facilities

• Gift shops and photo booths.

• Multiple dining options, including revolving restaurants.

Accessibility

• Fully accessible for wheelchairs.

• Priority queues are available for the elderly and disabled.

Costs Involved

• Basic Admission: ¥150

• Full Experience (Observation + Rides): ¥298

Location & How to Get There

Address: 222 Yuejiang W Rd, Haizhu, Guangzhou

Metro: Line 3 or APM Line to Canton Tower Station.

Pro Tips

• Go at night to see the illuminated Pearl River and skyline.

• Bubble Tram sells out, book early.

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4. China Zun (CITIC Tower) – Beijing

Highlights

1. Sky Garden: Indoor garden at 524 meters, ideal for photos and reflection.

2. Luxury Lounges: Enjoy business-class services and fine dining with a view.

Architecture

• Inspired by the ancient ritualistic zun vessel.

• Curved shape ensures stability and wind resistance.

• Beijing’s tallest building is at 528 meters.

Facilities

• Conference rooms, lounges, fine dining.

• On-site security and exclusive access floors.

Accessibility

• Fully accessible with wide elevators and visual guidance systems.

Costs Involved

• Private access only (not open to general public observation decks yet).

Location & How to Get There

Address: No. 1, Guanghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing

Metro: Line 1 to Guomao Station, walk or take a cab.

Pro Tip

• View it from China World Mall or nearby rooftop bars.

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5. National Centre for the Performing Arts – Beijing

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Centre_for_the_Performing_Arts_(China)

Highlights

1. Opera House & Concert Hall: World-class acoustics with weekly international performances.

2. Art Exhibitions: Rotating art displays in the underground lobby.

Architecture

• Designed by French architect Paul Andreu.

• The National Centre is nicknamed “The Giant Egg” for its ellipsoid dome structure.

• Surrounded by an artificial lake, entered via an underwater corridor.

Facilities

• Restaurants and cafés inside.

• Art shops and ticket booths.

Accessibility

• Fully accessible with ramps and designated seating areas.

Costs Involved

• Ticket prices vary by performance: ¥100–¥1,000+

Location & How to Get There

Address: 2 W Chang’an Ave, Xicheng District, Beijing

Metro: Line 1 to Tiananmen West Station.

Pro Tips

• Attend a rehearsal if tickets are sold out.

• Best photos taken at sunset with lake reflections.

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6. Ping An Finance Center – Shenzhen

Highlights

1. Free Sky Observation Deck (Level 116): Unobstructed 360° views of the booming tech city.

2. Starlight Corridor: Futuristic hallway with ambient lighting effects.

Architecture

• Designed by KPF (Kohn Pedersen Fox).

• The facade of stainless steel enhances shine and wind resistance.

• 599 meters tall, the 2nd tallest in China.

Facilities

• Mall, office towers, fine dining.

• On-site concierge and security.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair friendly and multilingual guides.

Costs Involved

• Observation Deck: ¥200

Location & How to Get There

Address: 5033 Yitian Road, Futian District, Shenzhen

Metro: Line 1 to Convention & Exhibition Center.

Pro Tips

• Great for night photography.

• Best skyline views in southern China.

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7. Temple of Heaven – Beijing

Highlights

1. Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests: The iconic triple-gabled structure was used by emperors to pray.

2. Echo Wall: Whisper from one end and hear it on the other.

Architecture

• Symbolic of heaven and earth.

• Built in 1420 using wood with no nails.

• UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Facilities

• Tea shops, exhibits, and audio guides.

Accessibility

• Most paths are accessible; wheelchairs are available on request.

Costs Involved

• Entry: ¥30–¥50 depending on season and areas.

Location & How to Get There

Address: Dongcheng District, Beijing

Metro: Line 5 to Tiantan Dongmen Station.

Pro Tips

• Visit early for Tai Chi groups and photo ops.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes.

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8. The Great Hall of the People – Beijing

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Hall_of_the_People

Highlights

1. Political Events & Tours: Catch state events or public tours showcasing the grand auditorium.

2. Banquet Hall: Designed to seat over 5,000 guests.

Architecture

• Built in 1959 in only 10 months.

• Classic Soviet-influenced design with traditional Chinese motifs.

Facilities

• Audio tours, exhibitions.

Accessibility

• Ramps, elevators, and assistive technology are available.

Costs Involved

• Entry: ¥30 (guided tour optional)

Location & How to Get There

Address:West of Tiananmen Square, Beijing

Metro: Line 1 to Tiananmen West.

Pro Tips

• Security is tight; carry ID.

• Book tours online in advance.

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9. Oriental Pearl Tower – Shanghai

Highlights

1. Glass Floor Deck: Walk on transparent floors 259 meters above ground.

2. Space Capsule Deck (350m): The highest viewing platform in the tower.

3. Shanghai History Museum (Basement): A great place to learn about local history.

Architecture

• Features 11 spheres symbolizing pearls.

• LED-lit at night for dazzling light shows.

Facilities

• Restaurants, gift shops, and VR games.

Accessibility

• Fully accessible.

Costs Involved

• Full access ticket: ¥220

Location & How to Get There

Address: 1 Century Ave, Pudong, Shanghai

Metro: Line 2 to Lujiazui.

Pro Tips

• Come at night for the full light show experience.

• Buy combo tickets with river cruises.

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10. Xi’an Bell Tower

Source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki

Highlights

1. Cultural Shows: Watch traditional Chinese performances during evening hours.

2. Panoramic Viewpoint: Offers 360° views of Xi’an’s historic center.

Architecture

• Built in 1384 during the Ming Dynasty.

• Classic timber architecture with green tiles and upturned eaves.

Facilities

• Museum, exhibitions.

Accessibility

• Moderate; stairs involved, but assistance available.

Costs Involved

• Entry: ¥35

Location & How to Get There

Address: Downtown Xi’an, Shaanxi Province

Metro: Line 2 to Bell Tower Station.

Pro Tips

• Visit both day and night for contrast.

• A combo ticket with the Drum Tower saves money.

11. The Long Museum – Shanghai

Highlights

1. Contemporary Exhibits: Features modern Chinese art and rotating international exhibitions.

2. Vault Space Design: Unique concrete tunnels and a minimalist vibe.

Architecture

• The Long Museum was designed by Atelier Deshaus.

• Reinforced concrete with industrial aesthetics.

Facilities

• Café, bookstore, guided tours.

Accessibility

• Fully accessible with elevators and restrooms.

Costs Involved

• Entry: ¥100–¥150 depending on the exhibit.

Location & How to Get There

Address: 3398 Longteng Avenue, Xuhui, Shanghai

Metro: Line 11 to Yunjin Road Station.

Pro Tips

• Great for art lovers and Instagram-worthy shots.

12. Bird’s Nest (Beijing National Stadium)

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beijing_National_Stadium

Highlights:

• Olympic Tours: Learn about the 2008 Olympics and view the stadium from within.

• Night Illumination: The structure glows with LED colors at night.

Architecture

• Designed by Herzog & de Meuron and Ai Weiwei.

• Steel lattice gives it the nickname “Bird’s Nest.”

Facilities

• Museum, restaurants, and tour booths.

Accessibility

• Fully accessible.

Costs Involved

• Entry: ¥50–¥80

Location & How to Get There

Address:Olympic Green, Chaoyang District, Beijing

Metro: Line 8 to Olympic Sports Center.

Pro Tips

• Visit at night for stunning photos.

• Combine with the nearby Water Cube tour.

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FAQs

1. What is the tallest building in China?

The Shanghai Tower is the tallest among all buildings in China, reaching a height of 632 meters and featuring one of the fastest elevators in the world.

2. Are observation decks in buildings in China wheelchair accessible?

Yes, most observation decks in modern buildings in China, such as the Shanghai Tower and Canton Tower, are fully wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps.

3. Do I need to book tickets in advance to visit buildings in China?

Absolutely. For popular buildings in China like the Forbidden City or the Canton Tower, booking is highly recommended to avoid long queues.

4. What’s the best time to explore iconic buildings in China?

The best times to visit iconic buildings in China are weekday mornings or late evenings to enjoy fewer crowds and better lighting for photography.

5. Are there combo tickets available for buildings in China and nearby attractions?

Yes, many tourism boards offer combo packages that include entry to top buildings in China and nearby attractions, especially in cities like Xi’an and Shanghai.

6. Is English commonly spoken in buildings in China?

At most major buildings in China, especially tourist hotspots, you’ll find English signage and often English-speaking guides or audio tours.