The Shanghai Metro Survival Guide: Map, Riding, Tickets & Attractions
Want to travel to Shanghai but worried that taking the subway might be a hurdle? Don’t be afraid!
If you’re wondering how to ride the Shanghai Metro for the first time, how to buy tickets, or what attractions each line and station has to offer, this guide will provide the answers.
Bilingual Shanghai Metro Map
(Source from Wikipedia)
As one of the world's largest metro systems, the Shanghai Metro is an urban rail transit network serving the Shanghai metropolitan area. Its first line, Shanghai Metro Line 1, opened in 1993. Today, the system operates 21 lines, with 416.6 kilometers of new lines under construction, and a total of 517 stations in operation.
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How to Take Shanghai Metro
(Source from Unsplash)
If it's your first time in China, taking the subway might seem overwhelming—but there is no need to worry! This guide will make your metro ride smooth and easy.
Entering the Station
Multiple subway entrances may lead to the same station, so it doesn’t matter which one you use. Once inside, you’ll find yourself in the same station area.
Buying a Ticket
- Ticket vending machines are available in every station. If you’re unsure how to use them, ask station staff for help.
- Alternatively, you can use a Metro QR Code (generated via apps like Metro大都会 or Alipay) to scan and enter.
- Important: Your entry and exit methods must match—if you enter with a QR code, you must exit with the same code (not a ticket or metro card).
Passing Through the Gates
- Your bags will go through a security check before entry.
- After security, follow the signs to your desired metro line (some stations serve multiple lines—even up to 4—so check carefully!).
- Scan your QR code/ticket at the gate to enter.
Waiting for the Train
- Head to the platform as directed. Screens will display train arrival times.
- Double-check:
- The direction of the train (matches your destination).
- The line number (some stations have multiple lines—don’t board the wrong one!).
Boarding the Train
- Let passengers exit first before boarding.
- During rush hours (weekdays 8–10 AM & 6–8 PM), trains can get extremely crowded. If needed, wait for the next one patiently.
Exiting the Station
- At your destination, follow exit signs.
- Look for green indicator lights above the gates—they show the correct exit direction.
- Use the same method to exit as you did to enter (e.g., QR code → QR code).
Language is no barrier. Shanghai Metro has bilingual (Chinese/English) signs, and staff can assist if needed.
Shanghai Metro Fares & Tourist Passes
| Ticket Type | Price (RMB) | Validity | Key Coverage | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Single Journey Ticket | ¥3–¥15 | Single use, same day | ▪0–6 km: ¥3 ▪6–16 km: +¥1 per 10 km ▪>16 km: +¥1 per 20 km (Max: ¥15) | Ticket vending machines |
Public Transportation Card | ¥20 deposit + recharge | No expiry | All metro lines + buses/ferries/taxis ▪Transfer discount: ¥1 off bus↔metro within 120 min | Station service counters/convenience stores |
Metro Da Du Hui App | Pay-per-ride | Real-time deduction | All lines (linked to Alipay/WeChat/bank card) | Download app + register |
1-Day Pass | ¥18 | 24 hours | Unlimited metro rides (excludes Maglev, Airport Express, Pujiang APM) | Station service counters |
3-Day Pass | ¥45 | 72 hours | Same as 1-Day Pass | Station service counters |
Maglev + Metro 1-Day Pass | ¥55 | 24 hours | ▪ 1 Maglev ride (Pudong Airport ↔ Longyang Rd)+Unlimited metro | Maglev stations/large metro stations |
Shanghai Tourist Pass | ¥220+ (multi-option) | 1/2/3 days | ▪Attraction entries + transport ▪ Optional unlimited metro rides | Online/airports/hotels |
Important Notes
- Child Policies:
- Children ≤1.3m: Free (with paying adult)
- Pass Activation:
- 1-Day/3-Day Passes: Activate at first entry (not calendar day).
- Maglev Combo: Valid only for Pudong Airport ↔ Longyang Rd (1 ride).
- Exclusions:
- Tourist passes do not cover: Maglev, Airport Express, Pujiang APM, or intercity trains.
How to Buy Shanghai Metro Tickets: 6 Options Explained
Single Journey Tickets
You can buy tickets at the self-service machines in any station (English interface available). Simply select "Single Journey Ticket," tap your destination station on the interactive map, and pay with cash (fares range from ¥1-15) or via WeChat/Alipay.
The machines only accept coins, ¥5, or ¥10 bills—be sure to carry small change.
Mobile Payments (Alipay/WeChat Pay)
To use Shanghai Metro's QR code system, you'll need either a Chinese SIM card or an international mobile account with activated payment (foreign cards can be linked via Alipay's TourCard). But the limit is that QR code works for 1 person only.
Steps:
- Open Alipay → "Transport" → "Shanghai Metro"
- Scan QR at turnstile (green arrow = entry; red = exit)
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Metro Da Du Hui App
The Metro Da Du Hui app has functions including real-time train arrivals, efficient route planning, and integrated QR code payments.
To get started, simply download the app, register using your passport, and top up your balance through WeChat or Alipay.
Shanghai Public Transportation Card
If you plan to try different transportation options like buses, taxis, or ferries, then a transportation card would be an excellent choice.
Cost: ¥20 deposit (refundable) + top-up
Where to Buy:
- Service counters at major stations (People's Sq, Pudong Airport)
- Convenience stores (FamilyMart, Lawson)
1-Day Travel Pass (24-Hour Ticket)
Price: ¥18
Coverage: Unlimited rides within 24h of first use
Only sold at transfer stations like Century Ave
3-Day Pass (72-Hour Ticket)
Price: ¥45
Where to Buy:
- Airport terminals (Pudong T1/T2, Hongqiao T2)
- Major hotels (ask concierge)
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Shanghai Metro General Operating Hours (Major Lines)
For precise planning, especially for early morning departures or late-night returns, always consult the official Shanghai Metro website or app ("Metro Da Du Hui") and enter your specific origin, destination, and travel date/time. This table provides a general overview for initial planning.
Line | First Train (Approx.) | Last Train (Approx.) | Key Stations/Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
Line 1 | 5:30 AM | 11:00 PM | Shanghai Railway Station, People's Square, Xujiahui, Shanghai South Railway Station |
Line 2 | 5:30 AM | 11:00 PM | Hongqiao Airport/Train Station, Jing'an Temple, Lujiazui (Pudong), Longyang Rd (Maglev), Pudong Airport |
Line 9 | 5:30 AM | 11:00 PM | Century Ave, Qibao, Sheshan, Songjiang |
Line 10 | 5:30 AM | 11:00 PM | Hongqiao Airport/Train Station, Nanjing East Rd, Yuyuan Garden, North Sichuan Rd |
Line 11 | 5:30 AM | 11:00 PM | Disney Resort, Caohejing KTP, Jiading, North Jiading |
Line 13 | 5:30 AM | 11:00 PM | West Nanjing Rd, Middle Huaihai Rd, World Expo Museum, Zhangjiang |
Line 16 | 5:30 AM | 11:00 PM | Longyang Rd, Lingang (Deep Water Port) |
Maglev | 6:45 AM | 9:40 PM | Longyang Rd ⇄ Pudong Airport (Very fast - 7 mins) |
Pujiang Line | 6:00 AM | 10:00 PM | Shendu Highway ⇄ Huizhen Rd (Automated APM) |
The Guide to Shanghai Metro's Top Attractions & How to Reach Them
1. People's Square Station (Lines 1, 2, 8)
Attractions:
- Shanghai Museum: China’s finest ancient art collection.
- Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street: Shopping mecca (exit toward Nanjing East Rd).
- Urban Planning Exhibition Center: See Shanghai’s futuristic city models.
How to Get There:
- Exit Gate 1 for the museum; Gate 3 leads directly to Nanjing Road.
Hotels Near Nanjing Road
9.2/10
5726 reviews
10/10
Junior Suite
Great location, clean and reasonably price , good breakfast, the view is from the room and club lounge
6.5/10
Collection Standard Queen Bed Room
I would only recommend this hotel if you want to be right on Nanjing Pedestrian street. The train is a short 10mins walk away. Breakfast is alright but it gets busy with linited tables later in the morning.
The bad part- experienced leaks the first time during a hotel stay. It was raining and a big puddle of water collected from the ceiling in the toilet. Hotel staff had to place towels at the affected area afterwards.
Hotel walls are thin. Woken up on 2 nights by constant opening and closing of doors by my neighbours. Hotel staff could only shrug and say they are noisy foreigners.
They did agree to a change of rooms. I got some peace but the toilet had a musty smell.
Time for Radisson to upgrade your hotel and rooms.
7.5/10
Collection Superior Queen Bed Room
Writing this review is not easy because I always try to stay positive and support hotels where the team genuinely makes an effort.
Overall, my first impression of the hotel was good, but as my stay continued, several issues made it difficult to fully enjoy the experience.
The biggest problem was the smell in the room. I asked to change rooms, but the alternative room had same unpleasant odor, so I decided to stay in the original one. Because of this, I shortened my planned stay. The smell wasn't just an "old building" smell—it felt more like excessive humidity or even possible mold. It wasn't surprising to discover that the bathroom exhaust fan wasn't working.
Another unpleasant experience was waking up with what looked like insect bites after sleeping in the bed. I cannot say for certain what caused them (probably bedbugs), but it was concerning. I also had a mild allergic reaction after using one of the hotel's umbrellas, so I would recommend wiping them down before use if you have sensitive skin.
On the positive side, I truly appreciated the staff's attitude. They sincerely tried to understand my concerns and help, even if they weren't always able to resolve the issues. Their willingness to assist deserves recognition.
Breakfast is definitely one of the hotel's strongest points. There is a wide variety of quality food, and it's an excellent way to start the day.
The afternoon tea is also a nice benefit, especially with the beautiful view, making it a pleasant place to relax.
I hope the hotel addresses the room condition and ventilation issues because the staff clearly care, and with better maintenance, the overall experience could be much better.
2. Lujiazui Station (Line 2)
Attractions:
- Oriental Pearl Tower (¥160): Iconic sphere with glass-floor observatories.
- Shanghai Tower (¥180): World’s 2nd-tallest building (exit toward Silver City Rd).
- Bund Sightseeing Tunnel (¥50): Quirky light-show ride to the Bund.
How to Get There: - Take Exit 3 for the Pearl Tower; follow signs to Shanghai Tower (5-min walk).
Hotels Near Lujiazui
9.1/10
1398 reviews10/10
Sui Yue Exquisite Quadruple Room With Jimi IMAX Projection
Very clean place, convenient location. The beds and pillows were great standard, and we love how the couch also had a blanket cover. We loved our stay here that we also extended our stay. Very responsive service too. Thank you for having us.
10/10
Drifting | Clean Exquisite Sextuple Room
This was an excellent stay! The room was spotless and comfortable, and the bed was large and incredibly cozy. The guesthouse provided a full range of amenities, paying attention to many small details. The customer service staff were very quick to respond and always helped promptly with any issues. Plus, having a kitchen with a large refrigerator was super convenient, whether for storing groceries or doing some light cooking. Overall, it was a very comfortable and convenient experience, and I'll definitely be back if I get the chance!
10/10
Featured Boutique Room - 5-Person Occupancy
This time, I brought my family to stay at this Sika Designer Panorama B&B in Lujiazui, and the overall experience completely exceeded our expectations – it definitely deserves a five-star rating!
The room hygiene was impeccable; every corner of the house was spotless and gleaming. The bedding was soft and tidy, which made us feel especially at ease with kids. The location is superb, offering expansive panoramic views of the Lujiazui cityscape, and the floor-to-ceiling windows provide excellent natural light. In the evening, we could also enjoy the city's night view. The facilities are comprehensive; the IMAX high-definition projector created an amazing cinematic atmosphere. The exquisite five-person residence was spacious and airy, so our family never felt cramped. The host's service was thoughtful and attentive, providing clear check-in instructions and promptly responding to any issues. The decor features a simple yet elegant designer style, and the environment is quiet and refined. It's also very convenient for getting around, sightseeing, and dining. This place is perfect for family trips with children, offering incredible value for money. We will definitely book here again next time we visit Shanghai!
3. East Nanjing Road Station (Lines 2, 10)
Attractions:
- The Bund: Colonial-era waterfront (10-min walk from exit).
- Huangpu River Cruise (¥120): Board at Shiliupu Pier (15-min walk).
How to Get There: - Exit Gate 7 and walk straight toward the river.
Hotels Near The Bund
9.5/10
7623 reviews
10/10
Treasure Big Bed Room
Service was excellent, rooms were clean and the staff was very friendly and accommodating!
10/10
Treasure Deluxe King Room
Great location, very helpful staff who recommended local food spots and helped us order food to the room. Rooms were also very clean, modern.
10/10
Treasure Big Bed Room
This hotel is near the eastern Road. I have the laundry energy. You can use the room the Château Château and the controller light and the controller TV and the AC.
4. Disney Resort Station (Line 11)
Attraction:
- Shanghai Disneyland (¥475): Mickey in China!
How to Get There: - The station drops you at the park entrance—just follow the crowds!
Hotels Near Disneyland
9.5/10
10144 reviews
10/10
Deluxe Queen Room
Daily minibar: Each day, we received six different mini-drinks.
Ambiance: Check-in at the lobby was very quick, and the staff were enthusiastic and responsive. The king-size room we booked was spacious and had a desk. It was also very convenient to order takeout at night since there are many options nearby.
Service: What I loved most was the hotel's shuttle service. There's a shuttle to Disneyland as early as 5 AM, and one returning at 10:30 PM, conveniently located near the skywalk. After a full day at Disneyland, my feet were exhausted, so having a foot spa bucket provided by the hotel was absolutely amazing – such a thoughtful touch!
10/10
Superior Queen Room
This newly renovated hotel is quite upscale and luxurious. The overall hard furnishings and plumbing are excellent, with a showerhead that provides strong water pressure without being uncomfortable. The room is spotlessly clean; you won't find a speck of dust even when touching every corner, as I've confirmed with photos and videos. The check-in service is top-notch, truly a 'ceiling-level' experience. The 24-hour attentive concierge service is delightful. The hotel offers shuttle services to and from Pudong Airport, Hongqiao Airport, Hongqiao High-speed Rail Station, Disneyland, the Bund, and Yu Garden. If you're coming from the airport or high-speed rail station, remember to call ahead to inquire about the shuttle schedule. After checking in, you can scan a QR code to join a chat group to contact the helpful concierge with any questions. As someone who travels frequently for business and has stayed in many hotels, the Courtyard by Marriott and Novotel are excellent, but this hotel is simply perfect and I'm extremely satisfied. I will definitely stay here again.
10/10
Superior Queen Room
Excellent stay with kids! The room was spacious and clean, and the environment was quiet and safe. The staff were friendly and attentive. Check-out was simple and quick, and there were plenty of dining and entertainment options nearby. The cleanliness was top-notch, making for a worry-free and comfortable stay. Highly recommend for family trips!
5. Yuyuan Garden Station (Line 10)
Attractions:
- Yuyuan Garden (¥40): Ming-dynasty classical garden.
- Chenghuangmiao (Old Street): Souvenirs & soup dumplings.
How to Get There: - Take Exit 1 or *3*; the garden is a 5-min signed walk.
Hotels Near Yuyuan Garden
9.1/10
9199 reviews
10/10
Double Room
We stayed for a night in Shanghai at Ji Hotel. The room was clean and in great conditions. The location of this hotel is very convenient for tourist. All attractions are located walking distance away from this hotel.
7/10
Superior Double Room
Generally speaking it was okey. But need to be more careful with the hygiene. My partner ate something that gave her Diarrhea. Also, there was a slight smell to humidity or smoke in the room. The rest was good. Location was close to the Yuan garden.
6/10
Family Room
I booked a family room, costing around 1000 RMB per night. The room was quite small, with one 1.2m and one 1.5m bed, and that was it. There was only one chair, which was really inconvenient. The space was tiny and didn't match the price at all. There's a huge construction site right next door, and they start working at 6 AM on Saturdays and Sundays, which is incredibly noisy. While it's right next to the subway station, it's also right by a traffic light, making pickups and drop-offs very difficult. Every time I took a taxi, the driver would complain.
Shanghai Restaurant Recommendation
TASTE OF CHINA 中国味 Immersive Dining
Located at Shanghai’s historic The Bund · City Hall Plaza, this multi-sensory dining experience blends cutting-edge technology with Chinese culinary tradition. Through dynamic digital art, landscapes like the Yellow River and Li River come alive around—and even on—your plate.
Guided by the panda chef “Cheng BaoBao,” you’ll journey through seven culinary keys exploring China’s rich history and diverse culture. Each dish tells a story, merging flavor, art, and technology.
More than a meal—it’s an immersive encounter. Taste the essence of China, experience its spirit, and leave forever captivated.
TASTE OF CHINA 中国味 - Opening Hours
Operating Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Two Daily Seatings:
- Lunch Banquet: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
- Dinner Banquet: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
(Costume and styling experience is recommended 2 hours prior to seating)
TASTE OF CHINA 中国味 - Address
No.LG1-03, Zone E, 215 Middle Jiangxi Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai
TASTE OF CHINA 中国味 沉浸式餐厅
4.8/5466 Reviews
📍Unit LG1-03, THE BUND · CITY HALL PLAZA, 270 Henan Middle Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, China
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FAQs about Shanghai Metro
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