The cities with the best skylines in China

There’s something captivating about gazing out to a sea of skyscrapers. Silhouetted against the sky and brilliantly illuminated, those dramatic structures are so dynamic and vibrant, you can almost feel the pulse of the city beating with each twinkling light.

Among China’s booming cities, you’ll find some of the most remarkable urban architecture in the world. From the futuristic cityscape of Shanghai to the iconic view of Hong Kong’s skyscrapers, let us take you on a visual journey through these beautiful skylines.

1. Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a leading global hub with a world-class skyline to match. Our home city boasts an impressive number of contemporary architectural masterpieces; together, they reflect the city’s unique history and vibrant character.

If you’re looking to snap an Insta-worthy sunset, head up to Victoria Peak or hop on board the beloved Star Ferry. For VIP views, pay a visit to the International Commerce Centre (ICC), Hong Kong’s tallest building. Here, you’ll find both the sky100 observation deck, offering stunning wraparound vistas. While the sky100 observation deck is undergoing renovations until early 2026, you can still soak in breathtaking views from Ozone, the world’s highest rooftop bar, where you can take in the sights with a cocktail in hand.

2. Shenzhen 

Just across the border from Hong Kong lies another towering metropolis: Shenzhen. It was among the first Chinese cities to rapidly urbanise following economic reforms in the early ‘80s. As the city continues to grow, so do its super high-rises – Shenzhen now boasts five “supertall” skyscrapers of 380 metres or taller. The city takes equal pride in its green spaces, too, offering pockets of peace amid the bustle. 

You can admire Shenzhen’s urban landscape from the Free Sky observation deck, located on the 116th floor of the Ping An Finance Centre.  

3. Shanghai 

While Shenzhen and Hong Kong both undoubtedly impress with their vertical landscapes, it’s hard to beat the architectural prowess of the Shanghai skyline. One monumental landmark is the Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China and the third tallest in the world. This twisting structure also houses the highest hotel in the world: the J Hotel Shanghai Tower , stretching from the 84th to the 110th floor. 

From the Shanghai Tower Observation Deck – a dizzying 118 floors above the bustling streets – you’ll be treated to mesmerising panoramic city views. Meanwhile, across the river, the Bund captivates with views of the tower and the neighbouring, rainbow-lit Oriental Pearl Tower, which together form a memorable scene.

4. Guangzhou 

As a burgeoning centre of technology and innovation, it’s only fitting that Guangzhou’s architecture encompasses the best of both. The city’s skyline is a fusion of height, density and world-class contemporary design aesthetics. Standout monuments include the towering Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre, eco-futuristic Pearl River Tower and the quirky Guangzhou Circle. Soaring above them all, however, is the renowned Canton Tower. 

The full skyline is best admired from the Pearl River Tower – especially during the evening, when the Canton Tower comes alive in a rainbow of coloured lights. 

5. Chongqing 

There is no other city quite like Chongqing. Built in the mountains, it’s a cyberpunk vision of multilevel streets, suspended highways and teetering skyscrapers, all surrounded by hills and clouds. 

Noteworthy landmarks include the multi-complex Raffles City, featuring a horizontal 300m skybridge and rooftop square. Still more unmissable is Hongya Cave. Don’t be fool by the name; it’s not a cave but a striking 11-storey complex of Bayu-style buildings, housing shops, hotels, restaurants and markets – all perched on the cliffside. Come nightfall, the place lights up in a blazing neon orange.

6. Wuhan

In the heart of the Chinese Mainland, Wuhan is a city with 3,500 years of history. Once an important route along the ancient Tea Road, it has evolved and expanded into the sprawling modern megapolis we see today.

A poster city for bold, tech-driven design, Wuhan is especially lauded for its ultra-long suspension bridge – the Yangtze River Bridge – and its high-speed railway, which brings trains zooming alongside the river. Both the bridge and the riverside Chutian Terrace offer vantage points for visitors to appreciate Wuhan’s sweeping vistas of glassy towers and historic landmarks like the Yellow Crane Tower.

7. Suzhou

Suzhou is a city of contrasts: at once a collection of peaceful canals, elegant lakeside residences and classical gardens, and a bustling industrial centre hosting thousands of tech companies and hundreds of smart workshops. 

The skyscrapers here add to the city’s unique identity. The Gate of the East – playfully dubbed the “pants building” – serves as the focal point of the skyline, while the Suzhou IFS Tower adds serious height to it. To enjoy a fresh viewpoint, join a boat tour of Suzhou’s lantern-lit water town, which has earned the city its nickname: the Venice of the East.

8. Qingdao

From fishing village to maritime centre to modern coastal metropolis, Qingdao has a rich history. It’s easily apparent in the city’s architecture, which showcases a unique mix of European and traditional Chinese design influences. 

While the city may not boast as many glass supergiants as the other cities in the list, its landscape is enriched by stunning beaches and rolling hills, as well as elegant high-rises and red-roofed European-style buildings, all wrapped around the Yellow Sea. Marvel at the panoramic views of the city and its coastline from Zhangqiao Pier, Signal Hill or Fushan Mountain.