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
5691 reviews
4/10
Collection Superior Twin Room
Not recommended, they place 2 single bed in double bed setup
1 bed was place at the switches & plug points which is very hazardous
I complained, the front desk was apologetic & changed to another room which is a little better but this half covering the switches & plug points
They say all their twin bed are of this settings, I moved the bed towards the other bed
If not of the location it's a place to avoid totally
Though front desk were helpful & polite but no one to help with loading luggage on departure
2 bell boys were busy chatting away & pretend not to see or hear my car for assistance
I wonder how they got their 4 stars
10/10
Collection Standard Queen Bed Room
The location is convenient for families with children and elderly parents. There are many shops, cafes, and restaurants nearby. The breakfasts are excellent, the rooms and facilities are clean, the staff is highly professional, and the views from the upper floor windows are magnificent.
9/10
Collection Standard Queen Bed Room
The hotel is quite run-down: old renovations, all the furniture and appliances are worn out, and the toilet is ancient. There was an unpleasant smell in the room. The location is good. Breakfast was decent, but not great. I wouldn't stay here again.
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
9.2/10
1513 reviews
10/10
Deluxe 2-bed Room
Room:
Facilities: Well-equipped with all appliances, including a refrigerator, washing machine, and range hood, all from major brands. The toilet is also a smart toilet. There's a drainage sound accompanied by the toilet flushing, but it stops when no water is being used.
Service: They contacted us in advance before check-in and added us to a group chat, so any issues were addressed immediately.
Cleanliness: Clean. We stayed for three days and didn't request housekeeping. We also made sure not to leave it excessively messy when we left.
Environment: Closest to Line 9, and Line 2 isn't far. Downstairs, there are all sorts of food options, with cuisines from all over, so you don't have to worry about not finding something you like.
10/10
City High-End City View Panoramic Extra Large Living Room
We absolutely loved our stay! The apartment was clean, spacious, and perfect for our family of seven, including two kids. The location was very convenient and made it easy for us to get around and explore everywhere we wanted to go.
The host was also incredibly responsive and quick to help whenever we had questions or needed anything. When we ran out of water or tissues, all we had to do was send a message, and the supplies were delivered promptly.
One thing to take note of is that the building itself is quite old and the common areas are not very well lit.
Overall, we had a wonderful stay and would definitely recommend this apartment to families looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay!
10/10
Yu Hu Die Exquisite Quadruple Room
A family of four, we came to Shanghai for a trip and stayed in an Airbnb in Dongyuan San Village. It's just across the street from Shanghai Lujiazui Center, and the mall below has direct access to Metro Lines 2 and 9, making it super convenient for getting to the airport or high-speed train station. To go to the Bund for dinner and night views, it's only two metro stops away. Highly recommend!
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
8505 reviews
10/10
Treasure Big Bed Room
This hotel was was perfect, the staff is amazing and very helpful, we had a perfect stay! Will definitely come back
10/10
Treasure Big Bed Room
Perfect hospitality, "An amazing stay! The reception staff were extremely friendly and helpful throughout our stay. The hotel is spotless, smells wonderful, and the location is absolutely perfect. Highly recommended!"
9.5/10
Treasure Big Bed Room
Located just a short walk from Nanjing East Road Pedestrian Street and the People's Square Metro Station, this hotel is surrounded by endless dining options and features modern, spotlessly clean rooms with comfortable beds and smart voice-controlled features. Guests are warmly welcomed by an exceptionally friendly, bilingual staff who provide excellent local tips and utilize helpful service robots for efficient room deliveries.
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
10640 reviews
10/10
Superior Queen Room
The place was very nice it had really nice food and it was a very clean highly roccomened
10/10
Deluxe 2-bed Room
The hotel is grand, and the room layout is comfortable. The front desk staff are all very good. The hotel breakfast is rich, and there's a shuttle service for transportation, making it suitable for family trips.
9.5/10
Deluxe 2-bed Room
had a very enjoyable stay at Novotel Shanghai Clover. Good service, convenient location, and comfy rooms. I’d happily stay here again.
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
8.9/10
8565 reviews
9/10
Family Room
I really like this hotel because it is close to several tourist attractions, all within walking distance. The facilities are quite good; they provide children's slippers and toothbrushes, and the quality of the toiletries—such as soap and shampoo—is excellent. The service is also impressive, featuring a food-delivery robot. There is also a laundry room stocked with detergent, the surrounding area offers a supermarket and several Chinese restaurants.
10/10
Superior Double Room
Extremely convenient location! It's very close to the City God Temple and Yu Garden, and the Bund is just a 10-minute walk away. The subway entrance is right outside. Pudong Airport isn't far either. Plus, there are delicious crab roe buns and plenty of other authentic Shanghai specialties nearby.
10/10
Superior Room (2 Beds)
It was great! The room was very clean and had no strange odors. The space was also quite generous, not cramped at all, and the soundproofing was excellent; I couldn't hear any noise from outside. Overall, I was very satisfied.
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 Immersive Chinese Restaurant
4.7/5659 Reviews
📍LG1-03, B1, Old Municipal Government, The Bund, No. 270 Henan Middle Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, China
Average spend
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FAQs about Shanghai Metro
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