Shanghai Jinmao Tower
Located in Shanghai’s Pudong District, the Jinmao Tower was built in 1998 and opened in 1999. The name “Jinmao” means “Golden Prosperity”. The building is 88 storey’s high and was the tallest building in China until 2007. The name “Jin Mao” means “Golden Prosperity” in Chinese. The building is home to offices, the Shanghai Grand Hyatt Hotel, restaurants, and an observation deck offering bird’s eye views of Shanghai.
The building was designed by the Chicago firm of Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill. It was designed to have Chinese architectural elements and resemble a multi-tiered pagoda. The exterior is clad in glass, stainless steel, aluminum and granite. It is covered by a latticework of aluminum alloy.
The building’s dimensions are centered on the number 8 because the number 8, in Chinese culture is considered a very lucky number. The Jinmao Tower has 88 storey’s which are built around and octagonal core which is surrounded by 8 exterior columns and 8 interior columns. Keeping with the theme of the lucky number 8, the building was dedicated on 8 (August) 28, 1998.
Shanghai Grand Hyatt
One of the highest hotels in the world, the Shanghai Grand Hyatt occupies the 53rd thru the 87th floors of the Jinmao Tower. The hotel’s lobby is one of the tallest in the world and is quite spectacular. It can be looked down on from the tower’s observation tower.
The Piano Bar
Located on the 53rd floor, The Piano Bar is a jazz club which offers live jazz and incredible views of Shanghai.
Canton Restaurant
Located on the 55th floor, the Canton restaurant is a high-end restaurant specializing in Cantonese cuisine.
Restaurant Floor
Located on the 56th floor, the restaurant floor is home to several restaurants, each one offering food from a different country.
Club Oasis
Located on the 57th floor, the Club Oasis is a fitness club which is home to the highest swimming pool in the world.
Club Jinmao
Located on the 86th floor, Club Jinmao is a restaurant specializing in local Shanghai cuisine.
The Skywalk
Located on the 88th floor, the Skywalk is the Jinmao Tower’s observation deck. It has a capacity of over 1,000 people and offers bird’s eye views of Shanghai. It offers views down into the Shanghai Grand Hyatt’s lobby as well. The Skywalk has a small post office, from which you can send postcards home to your friends and family.
