Getting Started on the Shanghai Metro
The Shanghai Metro is the fastest and most affordable way to get around Shanghai. The network covers 508 stations across 20 lines and 831 km of track, connecting the city's key neighbourhoods, transport hubs, and attractions. Around ~11.0 million journeys are made every day.
The Shanghai Metro is the world's longest metro system by track length and the second largest by station count. Opened on 28 May 1993 with Line 1, it has grown to 508 stations across 20 lines and over 831 km of track — a feat of engineering that took just 30 years.
How to Pay
The best way to pay is with the Shanghai Transit Card & Alipay Metro — faster boarding, no queue at the machine, and usually a discount on fares. How to pay for the Shanghai Metro in 2026 — Shanghai Transit Card, Alipay Metro Code, WeChat Pay, and contactless options for visitors.
All payment options: 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.
Getting from the Airport to Shanghai
Line 2 connects Pudong Airport directly to central Shanghai — 60 minutes to People's Square for ¥7–¥9, or 7 minutes via Maglev to Longyang Road. Journey time: ~60 min to People's Square (Line 2) / ~7 min to Longyang Road (Maglev). Estimated fare: ¥7–¥9 (Line 2 metro) / ¥50 (Maglev).
Full airport connection guide →
Key Stations
These are the most important and useful stations on the Shanghai Metro for visitors:
Lines Overview
Essential Tips for Visitors
- Get a transit card — Shanghai Transit Card & Alipay Metro is faster and cheaper than single-use tickets.
- Always tap in and out — tap your card at both entry and exit barriers to correctly calculate the fare and avoid overpaying.
- Travel off-peak — No peak surcharge — distance-based flat fares at all times are the busiest times. Fares may be lower off-peak.
- Download the official app — real-time service status, route planning, and fare information from Shanghai Shentong Metro Group.
- Check operating hours — verify first and last train times before late-evening travel.
- Airport connection — see the airport guide for the fastest and cheapest way to/from the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Pudong Airport (PVG) to Shanghai city?
Two options: (1) Line 2 metro directly — about 60 minutes to People's Square, ¥7–¥9 depending on destination. (2) Maglev to Longyang Road in 7 minutes (¥50), then change to Line 2. The Maglev is faster but not worth it if you're going beyond Longyang Road.
How do I get from Hongqiao Airport (SHA) to the city?
Hongqiao Airport is on Lines 2 and 10 directly — no extra supplement. To People's Square is about 30 minutes on Line 2, or 25 minutes to the city on Line 10. Hongqiao Railway Station (high-speed trains) is also connected by Lines 2, 10, and 17.
Is the Shanghai Maglev worth taking?
For the experience, yes — 430 km/h in 7 minutes is extraordinary. Practically, it only saves time if you're heading to/near Longyang Road. The ¥50 fare vs ¥7 metro makes it a tourist attraction more than a commuter option. The metro Line 2 goes directly to the city centre without changing.
What is the best way to pay on Shanghai Metro in 2026?
Alipay Metro Code is the easiest for most visitors — open Alipay, go to Metro Ride, scan at turnstile. If you have a Chinese SIM or WeChat Pay, use the WeChat Metro mini-program. A Shanghai Transit Card (¥20 deposit) is the physical card alternative, refundable at service centres.
What time does the Shanghai Metro close?
Most lines run 05:30–23:00. Line 2 to Pudong Airport runs slightly later. Check the Shmetro app for exact last-train times by station, as they vary.
Which station is closest to The Bund?
East Nanjing Road station (Lines 2, 10) is about a 10-minute walk to The Bund waterfront. Alternatively, Nanjing Road (E) on Line 2 or Yuyuan Garden on Line 10 give good access to the Old Town area.
Is the Shanghai Metro accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes — Shanghai Metro has lifts at all stations, tactile paths, and accessible gates. Newer lines are fully accessible; older sections of Lines 1 and 3 may require station staff assistance at some exits.
Does Shanghai Metro have Wi-Fi?
Yes — free Wi-Fi (China Mobile) is available at all Shanghai Metro stations and on many trains. Coverage is generally good on platforms. You may need a Chinese phone number to register for some Wi-Fi providers.
Fare Guide
See the full Shanghai Metro ticket prices guide for all fares, the Shanghai Transit Card & Alipay Metro discount, and payment options.
Source: Shanghai Shentong Metro Group and Wikipedia. Information is for general guidance — verify with the operator before travel.