Ruijie & Sascha
Trail of China · May 2025
Ping An Finance Centre
599 meters tall, China's second-tallest building — the observation deck on the 116th floor gives you views into Hong Kong on clear days.
Why You'll Love It
The Ping An Finance Centre is the building that defines Shenzhen's skyline — a 599-meter glass needle that's the second tallest in China (after Shanghai Tower). The real reason to visit isn't just height — it's context. From the 116th floor, you can see the entire Futian district laid out below you, the mountains of Hong Kong's New Territories to the south, and on very clear days, Victoria Harbour.
The elevator ride alone is worth the trip. It hits 10 m/s — your ears will pop, and the LED ceiling display makes the 55-second ascent feel like a space launch. Once at the top, interactive displays show you what you're looking at in every direction, and glass floor panels let the brave look straight down.
Come before 10 AM for the clearest views. Afternoon haze softens the Hong Kong skyline but creates gorgeous sunset shots. Book online for a ¥20 discount.
About Ping An Finance Centre
The Ping An Finance Centre (平安金融中心) is a 599-meter supertall skyscraper in Futian District, Shenzhen. Designed by architecture firm KPF and completed in 2017, it's the 5th tallest building in the world and the 2nd tallest in China.
The observation deck, called "Free Sky," occupies the 116th floor at 541 meters above ground. It offers 360-degree views across Shenzhen, with visibility extending to Hong Kong on clear days. The deck features interactive touchscreen displays identifying landmarks in every direction, glass floor panels for the daring, and a cafe at the top.
The building's design is inspired by the Chinese character for "peace" (安), with a tapered form that narrows as it rises. The facade uses 1,700 tons of stainless steel, and the building houses offices, a hotel, and a shopping mall at its base.
Practical Details
Getting There
Take Metro Line 1 to Shopping Park Station (购物公园). Use Exit J and walk 5 minutes south. From Futian checkpoint, it's a 10-minute walk. DiDi from most central hotels costs ¥10–20.
What to Skip
Skip the paid "cloud experience" add-ons — the standard observation deck ticket includes everything worth seeing. The interactive displays and glass floors are included in the base price.
Photography Tips
Morning light is best for south-facing views toward Hong Kong. The building's taper creates a natural vignette effect through the glass. Bring a wide-angle lens for the 360° views and a telephoto for Hong Kong detail shots.
Essential Information
Location
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