Ping An Finance Center
Completed in 2017, Ping An Finance Center (PAFC) stands as China’s second-tallest skyscraper at 599 meters, anchoring Shenzhen’s Futian CBD skyline. This 118-story vertical city integrates Grade-A offices, luxury retail, a 360-degree observation deck, and the 5-star St. Regis Hotel. Its sleek glass-and-steel façade, designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox, symbolizes Shenzhen’s economic dynamism while earning LEED Gold certification for sustainability. The tower’s spire houses broadcasting equipment, and its tuned mass damper ensures stability against typhoons.
Historical Overview
Construction began in 2009, employing 3,000+ workers and pioneering "top-down" excavation methods. The project marked Shenzhen’s ambition to rival global financial hubs like New York and Hong Kong. Key milestones include the 2011 foundation ceremony, 2015 topping-out, and 2017 grand opening. It has hosted events like the 2019 Shenzhen Global Investment Conference and 2023 World AI Conference. The adjacent PAFC Mall features over 150 luxury brands, while the 116th-floor observation deck offers panoramic views of Shenzhen Bay and Hong Kong.
Structural Layout
The tower is divided into six functional zones:
- Basement (B1-B6): Retail complexes, parking, and metro connections (Lines 1/3/4).
- Low Zone (L1-L10): High-end boutiques, art installations, and the Grand Lobby with 15-meter ceilings.
- Mid Zone (L11-L50): Grade-A offices for Fortune 500 companies.
- High Zone (L51-L100): Executives’ suites and conference centers.
- Top Zone (L101-L118): St. Regis Hotel, private clubs, and the Sky Observatory.
- Spire (L119+): Broadcasting antennas and lighting systems for cultural Festivals.
Major Attractions
- Sky Observatory (L116): Glass-floored viewing platform with VR time-lapse of Shenzhen’s evolution.
- Cloud Club: Private lounge with infinity pools and Michelin-starred dining.
- Art Gallery: Rotating exhibitions of Chinese contemporary art and digital installations.
- Tuned Mass Damper Tour: Guided visits to the 500-ton stabilizer device.
- St. Regis Hotel: 290 rooms with skyline views, including the 1,400 m² Presidential Suite.
- PAFC Mall: High-end shopping with Tesla showrooms, Louis Vuitton flagship, and a vintage car museum.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (2 hrs): Grand Lobby → Art Gallery → PAFC Mall → Sky Observatory (sunset views).
- Extended Route (4 hrs): Add Cloud Club lunch, Damper Tour, and St. Regis afternoon tea.
- Comprehensive Route (Full Day): Include Mid Zone office tours, High Zone conference facilities, and evening light show at the spire.
Ticket Purchase
Observation deck tickets: ¥200 (adults), ¥100 (students/seniors) via WeChat/official app. Office tours require corporate invitations. Hotel stays start at ¥3,000/night. Free entry to the Grand Lobby and mall. Annual passes available for frequent visitors.
Transportation
- Subway: Line 2/11 to Futian Station (direct link via B1), Line 3/4 to Shopping Park Station.
- Bus: Routes 34, 35, 327 to PAFC East Gate.
- Taxi: Direct drop-off at north entrance (L1) or south entrance (mall).
- Bike/Pedestrian: Covered sky bridges connect to Lianhuashan Park and Shenzhen Library.
Best Time & Tips
Visit weekdays 9–11 AM for quieter observation deck access. Evening light shows (7 PM–9 PM) are popular. Wear formal attire for Cloud Club/restaurants. Use the PAFC app for real-time crowd alerts and VIP lounge access. Prohibited: Drones, large bags, and food deliveries. Combine with nearby Shenzhen Stock Exchange and Children’s Park for a full CBD experience.