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Everything You Need to Know about the Shanghai Metro

Traveloka Team

14 May 2024 - 4 min read

China's dynamic metropolis Shanghai, is a captivating blend of ancient traditions and futuristic innovation. Old and new things mix together in Shanghai, making it a fascinating place to visit. Tourists from all over the world come to see Shanghai.

Even though it's a big city, getting around Shanghai is easy. The Shanghai Metro, or MRT, is a subway system that goes almost everywhere. This makes it simple to visit famous landmarks, busy markets, and interesting hidden spots in Shanghai. To help you navigate this captivating city, here’s everything you need to know about the Shanghai metro system.

Shanghai Metro

The Shanghai Metro offers a fast, secure, comfortable, and convenient way to navigate the city. Key attractions, transportation hubs, and commercial districts such as the Bund, Nanjing Road, Huaihai Road, People's Square, Shanghai Railway Station, and Xujiahui are accessible via multiple metro lines.

Currently, there are 20 operational subway lines in Shanghai (including the Shanghai Maglev Train), covering a total of 831 kilometres (516.4 miles). Below is a metro map (in English and Chinese) for your reference, showing the existing 20 lines and sections that are under construction or in planning stages.

Shanghai Metro Tickets

The Shanghai metro system provides a range of ticketing options to suit different preferences and travel needs:

Shanghai Metro DADUHUI App
The DADUHUI app offers the ultimate convenience for metro travel. By scanning a QR code, passengers with Alipay, WeChat Pay, or MasterCard can swiftly access the metro system and make transfers. It's recommended to generate the QR code in advance to streamline the entry process and avoid delays at turnstiles.

Single Journey Ticket
This ticket, available from ticket machines or booths, is a convenient option for one-time use. Each ticket is pre-loaded with a fare corresponding to the destination chosen. After completing the journey, passengers should return the ticket at the destination station for recycling.

Shanghai Public Transportation Card
This versatile card is not limited to metro use; it can also be used on buses, ferries, and taxis. New users can purchase the card for CNY 100, which includes a CNY 20 deposit and CNY 80 credit for travel. The card can be reloaded at designated locations such as metro stations, bus stops, banks, or stores.

Souvenir Ticket
Designed for visitors, the souvenir ticket offers a unique experience. Valid for one year, this ticket can be purchased at select subway stations and allows a single trip on specified metro lines. After use, the ticket serves as a memorable keepsake.

One-day Travel Pass
Introduced during Expo 2010, this pass is an excellent choice for tourists exploring the city. Priced at CNY 18, the pass provides unlimited metro rides for 24 hours from the first use. It's a convenient option for travellers looking to maximise their sightseeing experience.

Three-day Travel Pass
The three-day travel pass offers great value for extended stays. Priced at CNY 45, this pass provides unlimited metro travel over 72 hours from the initial use. Like the one-day pass, it also doubles as a cherished souvenir after use.

Maglev & Metro Pass
This unique pass combines maglev train travel with metro access. Available since May 2013, the pass comes in two versions: single trip + one-day metro pass or round trip + one-day metro pass. Passengers can enjoy unlimited metro rides within 24 hours after their maglev journey. After use, the pass can be kept as a memorable souvenir of the Shanghai metro experience.

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How to Take Shanghai Metro

Here's a concise guide to using the Shanghai Metro for seamless travel within the city:

1. Entering the Station

Approach the metro station entrance guided by well-marked signposts within walking distance. Stations typically offer multiple entrances, each clearly labelled in both Chinese and English with the station name, entrance/exit number, and line information.

2. Buying Metro Tickets

You can easily purchase metro tickets at ticket offices or through self-service machines. Ticket options range from single journey tickets to using the Shanghai Metro DADUHUI App for contactless entry via QR code scanning. Ticket prices vary based on the distance travelled, typically between CNY 3 to CNY 9.

Entering the Turnstile
Hold your ticket in your right hand and follow the 'Right Hand Principle' when passing through the turnstile. Look for the green light indicating that your ticket is valid for entry.

Waiting for the Train
Proceed to the correct platform for your desired direction. Pay attention to platform signs and electronic displays showing train arrival times. Remain behind safety lines until the train arrives.

Getting on the Train
Wait for passengers to exit the train before boarding. Exercise caution and avoid touching closing doors. Once inside, find a seat or standing area as per your preference.

Getting off the Train
Monitor station announcements and onboard screens displaying the next stop. Prepare to disembark as the train approaches your destination station.

Exiting the Turnstile

Use the 'Right Hand Principle' again to exit through the turnstile. Hold your ticket or Shanghai Public Transportation Card over to the reader to pass through.

8. Exiting the Station

Follow signs to the nearest exit that leads to your intended destination. Use guide signs to navigate your way out of the station and into the surrounding area.

Tips for using the Shanghai Metro

Here are some helpful tips for using the Shanghai Metro:

Look out for guide signs in white directing you to station entrances, ticket counters, and train platforms. Signs in yellow indicate the way to the station exit.

If you need to transfer between metro lines at a station, do not exit through the turnstile. Instead, use special passages to reach the platform for your connecting train.

Keep in mind that your entire trip should be completed within three hours to stay within the validity period of your ticket.

Always stand behind the safety line and be cautious around opening and closing train doors. Note that there is a 10 cm drop from the trains to the platforms on Line 6 and 8.

Each adult passenger can accompany up to two children under 1.3 metres (4.26 feet) in height who can travel for free on the metro.

Ensure that your luggage weighs less than 23 kilograms (50.7 pounds) and is smaller than 0.15 cubic metres (5.3 cubic feet). The combined length, width, and height of your luggage should not exceed 1.8 metres (5.9 feet).

Do not hesitate to approach metro staff if you have questions or encounter any issues during your journey. They are there to assist you.

The Shanghai Metro makes getting around Shanghai easier to move between famous landmarks, train stations, and shopping areas in the city.

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