Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World

Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Guide to Shanghai Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World stands as a beacon of modern luxury and architectural innovation in central Shanghai. Located at No. 88 Nanjing West Road in the Huangpu District, this hotel is more than just accommodation—it is an iconic landmark, offering sweeping views of the city from its distinctive flying saucer-shaped orb and renowned revolving restaurant. Since opening in 2003 during a period of rapid urban development, the hotel has played a pivotal role in connecting travelers to Shanghai’s commercial, historical, and cultural heart. This detailed guide provides essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, nearby attractions such as People’s Square and The Bund, and unique visitor amenities, ensuring you can make the most of your Shanghai stay. For further architectural and visitor details, see the Radisson Blu official site and Skyscraper Center.

Introduction
Origins and Development
Architectural Design and Features
- Design Philosophy and Team
- Structural Highlights
Visitor Information
Nearby Attractions
Architectural and Engineering Highlights
Photography and Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Discover People’s Square: Shanghai’s Historic Urban Heart
The Bund: Shanghai’s Waterfront Legacy
Summary and How to Stay Updated
References

Origins and Development

The Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World, sometimes called the Radisson New World Hotel or New World Grand Hotel, was completed in 2003, coinciding with Shanghai’s transformation into a global metropolis. Strategically facing People’s Square, the hotel was designed to serve both international business travelers and tourists, integrating seamlessly with neighboring attractions such as Nanjing Road pedestrian street and The Bund (Radisson Blu official site, Skyscraper Center). Its development marked a significant milestone in the modernization and expansion of Shanghai’s hospitality infrastructure.

Architectural Design and Features

Design Philosophy and Team

The East China Architectural Design & Research Institute envisioned the hotel as both a functional space and an unmistakable city landmark. Their goal was to blend cutting-edge amenities with a memorable silhouette on the Shanghai skyline (Skyscraper Center).

Structural Highlights

At 208 meters tall and comprising 47 stories above ground, the Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World features 520 guest rooms and suites. The structure’s concrete construction provides both durability and stability—essential for Shanghai’s soft ground. The most striking architectural element is the “flying saucer” orb crowning the building. This houses the famous revolving restaurant on the 45th floor, offering a full 360-degree panorama of the city. Above, the 47th-floor bar enables guests to experience even higher vantage points (Radisson Blu official site).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Lobby and Public Areas: Open 24 hours daily.
Revolving Restaurant: Open daily from 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM (last seating at 9:30 PM).
47th-Floor Bar: Open from 5:00 PM to midnight.
Tickets & Reservations: No general admission fee for public hotel areas. Dining at the revolving restaurant or bar requires advance reservations, particularly during weekends and holidays. Reserve via the official website or leading travel platforms.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Occasional architectural tours showcase the hotel’s design and engineering, while themed dinners and seasonal celebrations are hosted in the restaurant and banquet halls. For up-to-date schedules, check the hotel’s event calendar or contact the concierge.

Accessibility

The hotel is fully accessible for guests with disabilities, featuring wheelchair-friendly ramps, elevators, and specially designed rooms. The nearby People’s Square metro station ensures smooth transportation across Shanghai (Radisson Blu official site).

Amenities

Guests can enjoy a full-service spa, swimming pool, fitness center, virtual golf, snooker and squash courts, a modern business center, and over 950 square meters of meeting space, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers.

Nearby Attractions

The hotel’s excellent location puts many of Shanghai’s top sights within easy reach:

People’s Square: The city’s cultural and administrative core.
Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street: Premier shopping and entertainment destination.
Shanghai Museum: World-class collection of Chinese art.
Shanghai Grand Theatre: Renowned performing arts venue.
The Bund: Famous for its historic waterfront and colonial architecture.

Concierge services provide maps and directions to these popular sites.

Architectural and Engineering Highlights

The hotel’s all-concrete construction was a significant achievement, enabling expansive interiors and enduring stability. The revolving restaurant is a technical marvel, rotating smoothly to offer ever-changing views of Shanghai. At night, the illuminated orb and spire make the hotel a standout feature on the city’s skyline.

Photography and Visitor Tips

For the best photos, visit at sunset or after dark when the hotel’s lighting is most vibrant.
Reserve dining experiences in advance to secure the best seats in the revolving restaurant.
Explore various public areas for unique perspectives of the city and the hotel’s architecture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the revolving restaurant hours?
A: Daily from 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM (last seating at 9:30 PM).

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No fee for public areas; dining requires reservations.

Q: How do I book a table at the revolving restaurant?
A: Through the hotel’s official website or by contacting the restaurant.

Q: Is the hotel accessible for disabled guests?
A: Yes, with comprehensive accessibility features throughout.

Q: Are guided architectural tours available?
A: Occasionally; ask the concierge or check the website for schedules.

Conclusion

The Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World embodies the fusion of Shanghai’s modern ambitions and rich traditions. Its innovative architecture, panoramic views, and central location provide visitors with a memorable experience, whether dining high above the city, relaxing in luxury, or exploring nearby historic sites. For an enhanced visit, plan ahead, secure reservations for special experiences, and discover the rich urban tapestry that surrounds this remarkable hotel.

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Discover People’s Square: Shanghai’s Historic Urban Heart

People’s Square is a central landmark, acting as Shanghai’s cultural, historical, and social nexus. Surrounded by important institutions, museums, and entertainment venues, it’s a must-see for anyone eager to explore the city’s vibrant heritage.

History and Cultural Significance

Once home to the Shanghai Race Club during the colonial era, People’s Square was transformed into a public space after 1949 to symbolize Shanghai’s modernization and communal spirit. Today, it hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and citywide celebrations.

Visiting Information

Access: Open 24 hours.
Shanghai Museum: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed Mondays); free entry, but advance online reservation is necessary.
Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM daily; tickets approx. 30 RMB.
Grand Theatre: Check online for showtimes and ticketing.

Getting There

Metro: People’s Square Station (Lines 1, 2, 8).
Taxi/Ride-Hailing: Plentiful and affordable.
Walking: Easily accessible from nearby hotels and attractions.

Top Nearby Attractions

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street
The Bund
People’s Park
Shanghai Museum
Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center

Events and Tours

People’s Square hosts many public events and festivals year-round. Guided tours are available and provide context to the area’s history and hidden stories.

Visitor Tips

Visit early or late for fewer crowds.
Reserve museum tickets online in advance.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Use a language app or book a guided tour for deeper understanding.

FAQ

Q: Is there a fee to enter People’s Square?
A: The square itself is free. Museums and exhibitions may charge separate fees.

Q: Best time to visit?
A: Spring and autumn, and weekdays for smaller crowds.

Q: Is it accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps and accessible facilities.

Q: Can I take photos inside museums?
A: Policies vary, but non-flash photography is generally permitted.

Useful Links

The Bund: Shanghai’s Waterfront Legacy

Introduction

The Bund (Waitan) is Shanghai’s famed waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River, celebrated for its collection of early 20th-century colonial buildings and spectacular views of the modern Pudong skyline.

Historical Significance

Developed in the mid-19th century as a commercial hub, the Bund’s 52 historic buildings reflect a range of architectural styles, earning it the title “Museum of International Architecture.” This area was once the seat of major banks, trading houses, and consulates, symbolizing Shanghai’s status as a gateway between East and West.

Visiting Information

Hours: Open 24/7; most popular at sunrise and after dark.
Entry: Free; nearby attractions (e.g., Shanghai History Museum, Bund Sightseeing Tunnel) require separate tickets.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible with ramps and smooth pathways.

Key Landmarks

Peace Hotel: Art Deco icon with historic jazz bar.
Customs House: Distinctive clock tower.
Pudong Skyline: Views of Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Jin Mao Tower.
Bund Sightseeing Tunnel: Multimedia tunnel ride under the river.

Visitor Tips

Visit at sunrise or night for the best photos and atmosphere.
Combine your stroll with a Huangpu River cruise.
Wear comfortable footwear; the promenade is 1.5 km long.

Getting There

Metro: East Nanjing Road (Lines 2, 10) and People’s Square (Lines 1, 2, 8).
Bus: Several routes serve the area.

FAQ

Q: Is the Bund free to visit?
A: Yes, the promenade is open and free to all.

Q: Best time to visit?
A: Early morning or evening for cooler weather and fewer crowds.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, various walking and boat tours are offered.

External Links

Summary: Visiting Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World and Staying Updated

A visit to the Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World offers a distinctive opportunity to experience Shanghai’s blend of historical legacy and modern innovation. The hotel’s architectural prominence—capped by its revolving restaurant—provides luxury, convenience, and unmatched access to Shanghai’s premier sites, including People’s Square, Nanjing Road, and The Bund. To maximize your visit:

Book your dining or tour reservations in advance.
Use the hotel as a base for exploring Shanghai’s cultural and historical highlights.
Stay informed on local events and schedule changes through official resources.

For real-time updates and travel planning, visit the Radisson Blu official website and consult guides for People’s Square and The Bund. Download the Audiala app for more travel tips and exclusive insights.