Cheap Flights from Tokyo (TYO) to Shanghai (SHA)

Your flight journey begins at one of Tokyo's main airports - Narita International Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND). You can fly directly to either Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) or Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA).

The average flight time from Tokyo to Shanghai is about 3 hours 20 minutes. Shanghai operates in the UTC+8 timezone, while Tokyo is in UTC+9, so you'll gain one hour when traveling to Shanghai.

Major carriers including Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, China Eastern Airlines, and Air China offer direct services between these cities. With approximately 180 direct weekly flights, the Tokyo Narita to Shanghai Pudong (NRT-PVG) route is the most frequently served.

For international flights from Tokyo to Shanghai, arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure. During peak travel seasons like Chinese New Year, Golden Week, and summer holidays, consider arriving up to 4 hours early to avoid delays at security and immigration.

How to find the Cheapest flights from Tokyo to Shanghai

1. The cheapest Tokyo to Shanghai flight we've found start at $82 for one-way and ~$162 for round trip. Remember fares can change due to availability at the time of booking.

2. We recommend booking 6-8 months in advance for the most competitive prices. Flight data suggests November and February are the cheapest months for tickets from Tokyo to Shanghai. If you're flexible with your travel dates, use the 'Whole month' tool to find the best price across every month.

3. Finding a cheap ticket is easy with Price Alerts. Simply set up an automatic alert and we'll notify you when the price drops.

4. You can also check Trip.com regularly for exclusive promotions and deals, or visit our flight promo codes page (Weekly Update) for additional savings.

5. Use the filters to tailor your flights by entering your ideal departure and arrival times, number of stops, and airlines. Sort your results by 'Cheapest' to get the best deals.

6. Keep in mind that prices typically surge during Chinese New Year (January/February), Cherry Blossom season (March/April), and Golden Week (October).

Note: All prices are subject to change based on availability and season.

Airports in Tokyo

Narita International Airport (NRT)

Narita International Airport (NRT) consists of three terminals handling international and domestic flights. Terminals 1 and 2 operate direct flights to Shanghai through major carriers like Japan Airlines, ANA, and China Eastern Airlines, while Terminal 3 primarily serves low-cost carriers. The airport is located approximately 60km east of central Tokyo, taking about 60 minutes to reach by car.

From central Tokyo, you can reach Narita Airport via the Narita Express (N'EX) which takes 53 minutes to Tokyo Station (approximately $20), or the Keisei Skyliner reaching Ueno Station in 41 minutes (about $17). Airport limousine buses also connect to major Tokyo hotels, taking 75-125 minutes depending on traffic and your destination.

Haneda Airport (HND)

Haneda Airport (HND) has three terminals - Terminal 1 and 2 for domestic flights and Terminal 3 for international services, including direct flights to Shanghai operated by JAL, ANA, and Air China. Located just 14km south of Tokyo Station, it's the closer option to central Tokyo.

You can easily access Haneda Airport using the Tokyo Monorail which connects to Hamamatsucho Station in 13 minutes (about $3.50), or the Keikyu Line reaching Shinagawa Station in 11 minutes (about $2). Airport limousine buses serve major city areas with journey times of 30-45 minutes.

Airports in Shanghai

Pudong International Airport (PVG)

Pudong International Airport (PVG) is the primary hub for international flights located 30km east of the city center. Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), with its two modern terminals, handles over 70 million passengers annually and serves as a major international gateway to China, hosting flights from more than 100 international carriers.

Both airports in Shanghai are well-connected to the city via metro, with PVG offering the unique high-speed Maglev train service that reaches Longyang Road Station in just 8 minutes. Metro Line 2 takes about 60 minutes to People's Square (around $1), while airport shuttle buses serve various city locations for about $3-4. A taxi journey typically takes 45-60 minutes depending on traffic, costing around $30.

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)

Located 13km west of downtown, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)'s T1 and T2 primarily serve domestic flights. The airport is directly connected to Metro Lines 2, 10, and 17. A metro ride to People's Square takes about 25 minutes (¥4/$0.60). Taxis to downtown cost approximately ¥70/$10 and take 30 minutes depending on traffic. The airport is also connected to the Hongqiao Transportation Hub, offering high-speed rail connections to major Chinese cities.

Best Time to Visit Shanghai

For Pleasant Weather (September to November)

Fall is Shanghai's golden season with clear skies, gorgeous foliage and comfortable temperatures ranging from 61°F to 72°F. Perfect for outdoor exploration of the Bund and Yu Garden.

If you hate crowds, just steer clear of China's National Day holiday (October 1-7) when domestic tourism peaks and attractions can be overwhelmingly crowded. Any other time in October offers the same beautiful autumn weather (61°F-72°F) with significantly fewer visitors and lower prices.

For Seasonal Events (March to May)

Spring brings Shanghai's most iconic events and blooms. Cherry blossoms peak in March at Gucun Park, while April sees the Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix. May offers perfect weather for the Shanghai Tea Festival, with temperatures between 66°F to 75°F.

Top Things to Do in Shanghai

The Bund

More than just a waterfront, the Bund is Shanghai's living museum of architectural styles. This mile-long promenade shows 52 buildings representing Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, and Art Deco designs. Early morning brings tai chi practitioners, while evening reveals a spectacular light show from Pudong's skyscrapers. For photography enthusiasts, the best shots are from Waibaidu Bridge at sunrise.

Where to Stay: Located in central Shanghai, The Bund Puyan Hotel, Shanghai combines historic charm with modern comfort, just 3 minutes walk from East Nanjing Road Metro Station (Lines 2 & 10) and 5 minutes to the Bund waterfront.

Oriental Pearl Tower

The Oriental Pearl Tower stands tall and sleek along the Huangpu River, its three spheres gleaming in the sun like giant pearls. Visit the observation decks to soak in panoramic views of the city, including the Huangpu River and the Bund. The tower also houses museums, restaurants, and an amusement park, making it a destination for sightseeing, dining, and entertainment.

Where to Stay: Located in the center Shanghai, Shanghai Jinjiang Metropolo Classic East Nanjing Road Hotel offers rooms with breathtaking views of the tower and luxury amenities. And it's near East Nanjing Road Station (Lines 2 & 10) and Tiantong Road Station (Line 10), both within 5-10 minutes walking distance.

Shanghai Disneyland

Enter a world of enchantment where fairy tales come to life. Marvel at the lifelike animals in Zootopia, the first-ever thrilling zone inspired by the Disney·Pixar film "Zootopia." The park's magical atmosphere make it a perfect family getaway.

Where to Stay: Since Disneyland is far from the city center, if you're looking for a hassle-free trip, consider staying at these hotels near the park that offer free shuttle service, like Shanghai Disneyland Hotel, Novotel Shanghai Clover, and Royal International Hotel Shanghai.

Add Hotel Booking & Car Rental to Your Trip to Shanghai

Hotel Booking

Book your Shanghai hotel with confidence from our selection of over 2,000 properties. Whether you're looking for luxury stays along the Bund, boutique hotels in the French Concession, or budget-friendly options near metro stations, Trip.com offers competitive rates and verified guest reviews to help you choose the perfect accommodation.

Car Rental

While Shanghai's metro system is extensive, you might want to consider Trip.com car rental service for: Airport transfers, Day trips to water towns, Business meetings, Family outings to Disneyland. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, compare car rental rates from top providers like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise on Trip.com. Whether you need an economy car or a luxury vehicle, you'll find the best rates with flexible pickup locations across Shanghai, including both Pudong and Hongqiao airports. Book early to get the best deals and ensure availability during peak seasons.