How to Pay
- Shanghai Transit Card (SPTC)
- Alipay Metro Code
- WeChat Pay Metro Code
- UnionPay contactless
- Paper ticket
💡 Use Alipay (Metro Code in the Shanghai Metro mini-program) — scan the QR at the turnstile, no card needed. The Shanghai Transit Card (¥20 deposit) is the physical card option, also accepted on buses and taxis.
Peak Hours
No peak surcharge — distance-based flat fares at all times — trains are busiest during these hours. Fares do not change by time of day, but expect crowded carriages during rush hour.
Fare Table (CNY)
| Distance | Off-Peak | Peak |
|---|---|---|
| Base fare (0–6 km) | ¥3 | ¥3 |
| 6–16 km | ¥4 | ¥4 |
| 16–26 km | ¥5 | ¥5 |
| 26–36 km | ¥6 | ¥6 |
| Maglev (one way) | ¥50 | ¥50 |
| Maglev (same-day trip) | ¥80 | ¥80 |
Payment Cards & Passes
Shanghai Transit Card & Alipay Metro Guide 2026
How to pay for the Shanghai Metro in 2026 — Shanghai Transit Card, Alipay Metro Code, WeChat Pay, and contactless options for visitors.
- Alipay Metro Code is the fastest option — no physical card, instant top-up.
- Shanghai Transit Card works on metro, buses, taxis, ferries, and bike-share.
- ¥20 deposit fully refundable at station service centres.
Tips to Save Money
- Use the Shanghai Transit Card & Alipay Metro instead of buying a single-journey ticket every time — it's faster and usually cheaper.
- Travel off-peak — No peak surcharge — distance-based flat fares at all times. Fares are lower and trains are less crowded outside these hours.
- The metro is always cheaper than taxis for the airport journey — see the airport connection guide for fares and timings.
- Check the Shanghai Shentong Metro Group official website for any promotional passes or tourist cards that may offer unlimited travel for a fixed period.
- Plan journeys using the official app — some operators offer digital tickets that are slightly cheaper than physical tokens.
Fares are indicative and subject to change. Always verify current fares at the Shanghai Shentong Metro Group official website.