Shanghai is preparing to add a striking new feature to its skyline with plans for what is expected to become the world’s tallest spokeless observation wheel.
The attraction, known as Shanghai Gate, will rise in the city’s Baoshan District near the Yangtze River Delta and the Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal. Construction is expected to begin in late 2026, placing the project at the centre of a wider tourism investment programme worth about 4 billion yuan, or roughly $550 million.
A 228-Metre Wheel Without Spokes
The most distinctive element of the project is its engineering design. Unlike a traditional Ferris wheel, Shanghai Gate will not rely on central spokes. Instead, passenger cabins will move around the outer rim of a large fixed ring using advanced mechanical technology.
At 228 metres high, the structure is set to become the tallest spokeless observation wheel in the world, surpassing the Bohai Eye in Shandong Province, which stands at 142.5 metres.
The observation wheel alone is expected to cost around 2 billion yuan, or approximately $293 million.
A New Landmark For Shanghai
Developers say Shanghai Gate is designed to become both a major tourist attraction and a new architectural symbol for the city. Its waterfront location is expected to offer panoramic views across Shanghai, the Yangtze River and the surrounding urban landscape.
The project reflects Shanghai’s broader effort to strengthen its appeal as a destination for culture, entertainment and high-profile urban tourism. Officials expect the attraction to draw millions of visitors each year once completed.
More Tourism Projects Across The City
Shanghai Gate is part of a wider package of new tourism developments announced by the city. Other projects include West Bund Star Dome, a spherical digital art venue in Xuhui District, and New World: Golden Age, an immersive AI-powered theatre experience inspired by the popular drama series Blossoms.
The city is also planning upgrades to waterfront promenades along the Huangpu River, including new walking routes and environmentally friendly sightseeing transport.
Shanghai Looks To Reinforce Its Global Tourism Role
Together, the projects are intended to deepen Shanghai’s position as one of Asia’s leading tourism and entertainment hubs. By combining landmark architecture, immersive technology and waterfront redevelopment, the city is aiming to create new reasons for domestic and international visitors to return.
If completed as planned, Shanghai Gate would not only break an engineering record but also give the city a new visual icon on one of its most important waterfront districts.
