Bilibili World 2026 Tickets & Guide: July 10 at Shanghai NECC

BiliBili World 2026 (aka BW 2026)—has officially set its dates and is ready to take Shanghai by storm again this summer! To help anime lovers from overseas join this midsummer celebration with ease, Trip.com has put together the most complete, in-depth BW 2026 all-in-one guide. From exact dates and venue details, ticket-grabbing tips across platforms, and the must-see highlights of the eight themed zones to seamless multi-modal transport around the venue and a curated selection of quality hotels, we’ll help you plan the perfect itinerary and enjoy this annual 2D-culture bash worry-free.

BiliBili World 2026 | Event Dates & Location

Exhibition Dates and Location

• Show dates: BiliBili World 2026 is officially scheduled for July 10–12, 2026, a grand three-day celebration. This falls right in the prime summer season, making it the perfect time for students and working professionals to plan a self-guided two-city getaway.
• Venue: This year’s expo is once again set at one of Asia’s largest, state-of-the-art exhibition complexes—the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai). Celebrated internationally for its distinctive four-leaf-clover design, the venue boasts vast indoor exhibition halls, an advanced central operations system, and a full range of dining options, making it possible to safely and efficiently host hundreds of thousands of visitors and top-tier exhibitors from across China and around the world at the same time.

BiliBili World 2026 | Available Exclusively on Trip.com

• On-sale time: The exclusive ticketing channel for this year’s expo will officially open at 6:00 PM on June 20, 2026. Because BiliBili World tickets are always in extremely high demand and often sell out within minutes of going live, we strongly recommend that travelers planning to attend set an alarm in advance and complete their platform login and basic settings before sales open.
• Strict real-name verification: To keep things orderly on-site and prevent ticket scalping, the expo strictly enforces a real-name, one-person-one-ticket entry policy. When purchasing tickets, Hong Kong residents must accurately enter the information from a valid Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (Home Return Permit) or a passport.
• Ticketing strategy: Tickets usually come in different tiers—standard single-day passes, and special types that include limited-edition merchandise and priority entry. Before sales open, agree with your travel buddies on your preferred date (July 10, 11, or 12), because once tickets are sold, you generally can’t change the date or transfer them.
• Entry essentials: After successfully purchasing your ticket, you must bring the original ID that exactly matches your ticket information (original Home Return Permit) on the event day for on-site turnstile facial recognition and document verification. Do not bring photocopies or digital photos.

BiliBili World 2026 | Eight Themed Zones

BiliBili World 2026 has earned its status as the pinnacle of anime culture largely because it divides the massive halls across the entire National Exhibition and Convention Center into multiple immersive zones with distinct themes. Each hall embodies a core branch of anime and pop culture, so fans of every stripe can find a place that truly feels like home.

Anime and Core 2D Exhibition Zone

This is the beating heart of BW 2026. Renowned animation studios, manga publishers, light-novel powerhouses, and top official IP licensees from around the world set up show-stopping, large-scale booths here. Visitors can not only snag debut and limited-edition premium merch, art books, collectible figures, and other tie-in goodies, but also step into meticulously recreated classic anime scenes for can’t-miss photo ops. The main stage in this area also regularly hosts meet-and-greets and live autograph sessions with famous voice actors (seiyuu), original manga creators, and anime production teams.

Gaming and Esports Experience Zone

As a paradise for both hardcore and casual gamers, this zone brings together the hottest anime-style mobile titles, AAA single-player blockbusters, and playable demos of unreleased indie games. Major game companies build gigantic stages decked out in sci-fi, fantasy, or futuristic flair, and invite well-known cosplayers to bring the games’ main characters to life and interact with players. On top of that, a dedicated esports stage hosts electrifying pro team exhibition matches and star-streamer showdowns, and the top-tier audiovisual effects and the roar of the crowd are guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping.

VUP (Virtual Streamers) and VTuber Section

In recent years, virtual idol culture has surged worldwide, and the VUP zone at BiliBili World 2026 is without a doubt one of its buzziest, most community-driven hotspots. The area features multiple one-on-one, immersive interactive 'phone booths' and a large LED stage for live link-ups, where fans can jump into real-time voice or video interactions with their favorite virtual streamers—or snag a photo op. Organizers are also rolling out a wide range of BW-exclusive virtual streamer support merch, sold only on-site at the event, making this an unmissable stop for lovers of oshi (fan-support) culture.

UP Creators Meet-and-Greet & Variety Show Stage

At its heart, the bilibili platform is fueled by countless creative, talented content creators (known as UPs). On-site at the expo, the organizers have set up densely scheduled UP autograph areas and a multipurpose stage with all-day, non-stop performances. From powerhouse cover singers in the music zone and otaku-style dancers in the dance zone to big-name stars in the lifestyle, film & TV, and tech zones, you’ll have a great chance to meet face-to-face with the idols you usually follow on screen—and even jump into interactive on-site mini-games.

Cosplay Self-Guided Travel and Professional Photography Zone

Across the venue's main thoroughfares, atrium viewpoints, and designated photo zones, you'll spot thousands upon thousands of meticulously dressed cosplayers. Whether it's timeless anime icons, breakout characters from the latest mobile games, or wildly creative, meme-inspired, tongue-in-cheek looks, everyone here is met with the utmost respect and appreciation. The convention has thoughtfully set up professional backdrops and lighting areas for photographers and cosplayers alike. Just follow basic etiquette and ask for permission, and you can capture polished, anime-style shots worthy of the big screen.

Original Chinese Creations and Traditional-Style Cultural Zone

In recent years, the China-chic (guochao) trend and traditional Eastern aesthetics have seen a revival. This exhibition zone is dedicated to showcasing outstanding, homegrown Chinese animation, paired with Hanfu try-on experiences, heritage-style bazaars, and hands-on traditional craft activities. Many visitors make a point of arriving in exquisite Hanfu, mamianqun (horse-face skirts), or modernized qipao (cheongsam) for photo ops, creating a distinctive blend of eras and cultures within the venue's sleek, modern architecture.

Merch & Creative Market

Beyond the big-name official booths, the creative market area gathers a vibrant mix of fan-made merch from independent creators and fan circles. The selection is vast and the creativity limitless—you’ll find everything from exquisite hand-drawn postcards and doujinshi to handmade accessories and all kinds of personalized pins. It’s the perfect place to discover one-of-a-kind anime and manga collectibles.

Technology and Digital Interactive Entertainment Zone

This exhibition area will showcase the latest hardware, VR / AR immersive gear, high-end esports peripherals, and smart entertainment devices. Gamers can get hands-on here with top-tier setups for silky-smooth gameplay and discover how cutting-edge tech is unlocking brand-new possibilities for anime-inspired entertainment.

BiliBili World 2026 | How to Get to Shanghai

As one of the world’s most dynamic megacities and China’s premier economic hub, Shanghai is incredibly well-connected. Whether you are flying in from overseas, taking a high-speed bullet train from another Chinese city, or arriving via a luxury cruise, getting to Shanghai is seamless and efficient.

Here is your complete guide on how to get to Shanghai using every major mode of transport.

Arriving by Air: Shanghai’s Two Major Airports

Shanghai is served by two massive international airports. Depending on your airline and where you are flying from, you will land at either Pudong (PVG) or Hongqiao (SHA).

Pudong International Airport (PVG)

• Best For: International and long-haul flights.
• Location: Located about 30 km (18 miles) east of central Shanghai.
• Getting to the City: The Maglev Train: The world’s fastest commercial magnetic levitation train. It zips from PVG to Longyang Road Metro Station in just 8 minutes (50 RMB approx. $7 USD).
• • Metro Line 2: Connects directly to downtown hubs like People’s Square and East Nanjing Road (approx. 60–90 minutes).
  • Taxi / Ride-Hailing (DiDi): Costs around 150-200 RMB 21 $28 USD) depending on traffic.

Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)

• Best For: Domestic flights within China and short-haul regional flights (e.g., from Tokyo or Seoul).
• Location: Located 13 km (8 miles) west of central Shanghai, much closer to the downtown core.
• Getting to the City: Metro Lines 2 & 10: Directly links the airport to the city centre in just 20–30 minutes.
• • Taxi / DiDi: Quick and budget-friendly, costing around 40-60 ($6-$8 USD) to downtown.

Arriving by Train: China’s High-Speed Rail Network

If you are already traveling within China, taking a high-speed bullet train is often faster, cheaper, and more convenient than flying. In 2026, China's next-generation CR450 Fuxing trains operate at a world-leading 400 km/h, dramatically slashing transit times.

• From Beijing: The fastest bullet trains connect Beijing to Shanghai in under 4 hours.
• From Hangzhou / Suzhou: These nearby cities are just a 20 to 45-minute hop away, making them perfect for day trips.
• Major Railway Stations: Most high-speed trains arrive at Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station (collocated with Hongqiao Airport), which is fully integrated into Metro Lines 2, 10, and 17.

Cruising into Shanghai: International Ferry & Cruise Terminals

For a more scenic entrance, Shanghai welcomes numerous international luxury cruise liners and regional ferries (such as routes connecting Osaka, Japan).

• Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal: Located in the Baoshan District, this is where most large international cruise ships dock.
• Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal: Located right on the North Bund, offering a spectacular, jaw-dropping view of the Lujiazui skyline as you arrive.

Getting to the Convention and Exhibition Center by Public Transit in Shanghai

During the expo’s peak days from July 10 to 12, taking the subway is the most reliable way to reach BiliBili World 2026 and the best way to avoid street-level traffic.

• Metro Line 2: Get off at Xujing East Station. After exiting, follow the venue’s clearly marked directional signs to walk straight into the National Exhibition and Convention Center’s West Entrance Hall. Since Metro Line 2 runs right through Shanghai’s core business districts (like Zhongshan Park, East Nanjing Road, and Lujiazui), choosing a hotel along this line is a smart move.
• Metro Line 17: Please get off at Zhuguang Road Station. This station has an underpass or a pedestrian bridge that connects directly to the convention center’s North Plaza. In past years, Zhuguang Road Station on Line 17 has typically seen slightly lighter crowds than East Xujing Station on Line 2, making it a smart, efficient alternative for avoiding the heaviest entry rush.
• Taxi and ride-hailing tips: During the expo, organizers and local traffic authorities often put temporary traffic controls or diversions in place on roads around the convention center (such as Laigang Road, Yinggang East Road, Zhuguang Road, and Songze Avenue). So if you’re taking a taxi or using a ride-hailing app, we suggest setting your pickup/drop-off at a designated spot a little farther from the convention center (for example, a nearby shopping mall parking lot), then walking the rest of the way to avoid getting stuck in heavy traffic and wasting valuable time at the expo.

BiliBili World 2026 | Where to Stay Near the Venue