Master Shanghai metro system! Check my guide to maps, fares, stations & schedules. Everything you need for easy subway travel in Shanghai 👇
Shanghai Metro Map 2026
Click to See the Full Shanghai Metro Map (Source from Wikipedia)
As one of the world's largest subway networks, Shanghai Metro covers pretty much everywhere you'd want to go in the city.
With over 800 kilometers of track and more than 500 stations as of mid 2024, it handles a mind-boggling 10 million rides on an average weekday.
It's clean, fast, and super cheap, with fares between 3-10 yuan (from about 0.4 USD) depending on how far you're going.
While it can get pretty packed during rush hours (avoid 7-10 AM and 5-8 PM if you can!), it's still your best bet for zipping around the city.
List of Shanghai Metro Lines & Stations
Shanghai Subway Line 14 Yuyuan Station (from ArchDaily)
Shanghai metro system has 20 lines as of 2024, each marked with its own distinct color on maps and signs( 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18). The network includes Lines 1-18, plus the Pujiang and Jinshan lines. Most lines in central Shanghai run underground, while suburban sections often run on elevated tracks.
Major Lines You'll Use Most
- Line 1 (Red) - The main north-south artery running through downtown Shanghai. Key stops: People's Square (shopping/museums), Xintiandi (entertainment), South Shaanxi Road (French Concession).
- Line 2 (Green) - The crucial east-west line connecting both airports. Must-visit stops: Nanjing Road East (shopping/Bund), Lujiazui (skyscrapers), Jing'an Temple.
- Line 4 (Purple) - Circles the city center, perfect for reaching different parts of downtown without transferring through busy central stations.
Major Shanghai Metro Stations
- People's Square is our busiest station - it's where Lines 1, 2, and 8 meet. Think of it as Shanghai's Times Square! From here, you can visit People's Park, the Shanghai Museum, and tons of shopping malls.
- Xujiahui (Lines 1, 9, and 11) is another major hub. It's surrounded by huge shopping malls and electronics markets. If you're looking for gadgets or want to experience modern Shanghai, this is your stop.
- For culture lovers, get off at Yuyuan Garden station (Line 10) to see Old Shanghai, or Jing'an Temple (Lines 2/7) for one of the city's most famous temples surrounded by luxury malls.
- Take Line 2 to Lujiazui. This is where you'll find the Shanghai Tower, Oriental Pearl Tower, and the World Financial Center - basically, all those buildings you see in Shanghai postcards!
- Pro tip: If you're heading to Shanghai Disneyland, take Line 11 to the Disney Resort station. It's a direct ride and the stations are even decorated with Disney themes!
How to Use Shanghai Metro
As someone who rides it daily, I'll share all the details you need to know about taking Shanghai Metro, from entering the station to reaching your destination.
Source from Wikipedia
Entering Metro Station
When you first spot the red and white metro logo, you're at the right place! Each station has multiple entrances marked with letters and numbers. Don't worry about getting lost - there are clear signs in both Chinese and English everywhere. If you're carrying heavy bags, look for the elevator signs - most stations have them near the main entrance.
Security Check
Everyone goes through security - it's quick and painless! Put your bags through the X-ray machine (just like at the airport but faster), and walk through the security gate. Keep your water bottle handy as they might want to check it. The security staff are friendly, and some even speak basic English. There's a luggage size limit (about the size of a regular suitcase).
Source from ENGLISH.GOV.CN
Getting Metro Ticket
Here's where many visitors get confused. For Mobile Payment Users, the easiest way is using Alipay (支付宝). Just open your Alipay app, find the "Metro" icon on the homepage, link your payment card, and you'll get a QR code to scan at the gates. Another great option is the official Shanghai Metro DADUHUI (大都会) App - it works the same way, generating a QR code for you to scan at the turnstiles.
If you prefer physical tickets, you have two options. You can buy them from the ticket office counter (售票处) where staff can help you, or use the self-service ticket machines. The machines have an English option, and here's how they work: First, select your destination station on the touch screen map. The machine will show you the fare. Choose how many tickets you want (up to 9 at once), then pay with cash or card. The machines accept both notes and coins, and they give change.
If you need help, there's always station staff around, and many at major stations speak some English.
Getting to the Platform
After security, you'll reach the ticket gates. If you're using Alipay, just scan your QR code. For physical tickets, insert them into the slot (don't forget to take it out!). Follow the colored signs to your platform - each line has its own color, making it super easy to navigate. The electronic boards show waiting times and train directions in both Chinese and English.
Source from Wikipedia
Waiting and Boarding
Stand behind the yellow safety line and wait in the marked queues. Trains come every 2-3 minutes during busy times and 5-7 minutes in quieter periods. When the train arrives, let people get off first (it's a strict rule here!), then hop on. Inside, you'll find priority seats marked in orange - these are for elderly, pregnant women, or people who need them more than you do.
Source from Wikimedia Commons
During Your Ride
The screens inside the train show the next station in Chinese and English, and there are announcements too. Keep an eye on the station count - it's easy to get caught up in your phone and miss your stop! The trains are super clean and usually have great air conditioning (a blessing in Shanghai summers!).
Time to Exit
When you reach your station, head to the exit gates. Use your ticket or scan your QR code again. Now comes the tricky part - choosing the right exit! Each station has multiple exits (some big stations have over 20!). Look at the exit guides - they list nearby landmarks for each exit. Pro tip: if you're meeting friends, always specify which exit number you'll use.
Shanghai Metro Tips
- Avoid rush hours (7:30-9:30 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM) if you can. The metro runs from about 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM.
- Most stations have clean bathrooms and convenience stores.
- Lost something? Each station has a lost and found office. Need help? Look for staff in blue uniforms
Shanghai Metro Transfer Guide
Source from NYUAD Design
Let me tell you about changing lines on Shanghai Metro - it's something I do every day! Most transfers are pretty simple: when you get off your train, just follow the colored signs to your next line. You don't need to swipe your ticket or QR code again. Take People's Square for example - you can switch between Lines 1, 2, and 8 by just following the signs through the underground passages.
Regular transfers
The most common type where you follow connecting corridors to change lines. Like at People's Square or Century Avenue, you'll walk through underground passages following clear signs. These can take 5-15 minutes depending on the station.
Same-platform transfers
The most convenient type! At stations like Hongqiao Railway Station (Lines 2/10) and Yili Road (Lines 2/13), you can just get off your train and wait on the same platform for your connecting line. No walking required - just make sure you're heading in the right direction!
Virtual transfers
These require you to exit one station and enter another, even though they share the same name. Examples include Shanghai Railway Station (between Lines 1 and 3/4) and South Shaanxi Road (Lines 1/10 to Line 12). You'll need a new ticket unless you're using Alipay or a transport card.
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How to Pay for Shanghai Metro: Ticket, Metro Card & QR Code
Most Shanghai locals now use their phones to ride the metro - it's super convenient! You've got some main options:
a) Single Journey Tickets
Where to Buy:
- Automated Machines (available at every station).
- Service Counters (staffed, ideal for complex routes or assistance).
If you're just taking one or two rides, single journey tickets might be your best bet. Every station has ticket machines with English options. Here's how they work:
The screen shows a map of the metro system. Just tap where you want to go, and it'll show you the fare (usually between 3-10 yuan depending on distance). You can pay with cash (the machines accept 1, 5, 10, and 20 yuan notes) or cards. Some machines even accept international credit cards now - look for the Visa/Mastercard logos!
Pro tip: Keep your ticket flat (no bending!)—it’s a magnetic card you’ll need to insert at exits.
b) Shanghai Pass
This handy prepaid card is your ticket to easy travel in Shanghai—use it on subways, buses, taxis, ferries, and even the high-speed Maglev train. But it’s not just for transport! You can also pay for top attractions (like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Huangpu River cruises), shop at convenience stores, and dine at select restaurants. The card can be picked up right at Pudong or Hongqiao Airport. No registration needed—just top up and go!
Source from viajeroslowcosteros
c) Mobile Payments
- Alipay Digital Metro Card
The easiest way to ride Shanghai Metro is using Alipay's digital transport card, especially for international visitors.
Just download Alipay, go to the "Transport" section on the homepage, and select "Transport. Shanghai." You will find many transport options: metro, bus, bike taxi.
Link your international credit card to top up, and you'll get a QR code to scan at station gates. The same code works for entering and exiting.
- Metro大都会 (Metro Man) App:
- Download the app (English available).
- Link Alipay, WeChat Pay(not recommend), or a foreign card (Visa/MasterCard supported).
- Generate a QR code and scan it at turnstiles.
👉 Pro Tip for Foreigners: Some machines don’t accept foreign cards. Use service counters or mobile apps for payments.
Shanghai Metro Ticket Price
Shanghai’s metro system follows a distance-based fare structure.
Standard Metro Ticket Cost
Distance | Fare (¥) | Example Route |
0–6 km | ¥3 | People’s Square to East Nanjing Road |
6–16 km | ¥4 | Hongqiao Railway Station to Lujiazui |
Beyond 16 km | ¥1 per 10 km | Pudong Airport to downtown (~¥7) |
Children (under 1.3m) | Free (with an adult, max two children) | |
Discounts & Special Passes
Pass Type | Price (¥) | Details |
1-Day Tourist Pass | ¥18 | Unlimited rides for 24 hours |
3-Day Tourist Pass | ¥45 | Unlimited rides for 72 hours |
Maglev Combo Pass | ¥55 | Single Maglev ride + 24-hour metro access |
Maglev Round-trip Combo Pass | ¥85 | Round-trip Maglev + 24-hour metro access |
Public Transport Card 10% discount after ¥70 in a calendar month. | ||
Free Transfers Between metro lines/buses within 30 minutes of exiting | ||
Shanghai Metro Hours & Schedule
Source from Wikipedia
Most lines run from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM, but schedules vary by line and day.
General Metro Hours
- Weekdays: 5:30 AM – 11:30 PM (varies by line).
- Weekends/Holidays: Some lines extend service (e.g., Lines 1, 2, 10 until midnight).
Airport Metro Hours
- Pudong Airport (Line 2/Maglev):
- Maglev: 6:45 AM – 9:40 PM from Longyang Road.
- Line 2: 5:28 AM – 10:30 PM.
- Hongqiao Airport (Line 2/10):
- Line 2: 5:28 AM – 10:30 PM.
- Line 10: 5:25 AM – 10:30 PM.
Key Lines & Schedules
Line | Operating Hours | Key Stops |
Line 1 | 5:30 AM – 11:50 PM | People’s Square, Shanghai Railway Station |
Line 2 | 5:28 AM – 10:30 PM | Hongqiao Airport, Lujiazui, Pudong Airport |
Line 10 | 5:25 AM – 10:30 PM | Yuyuan Garden, Xintiandi, Hongqiao Railway Station |
Line 11 | 5:25 AM – 10:00 PM | Disney Resort, Longhua Temple |
Line 17 | 5:40 AM – 10:30 PM | Zhujiajiao Water Town (20-min walk from station) |
Note: Use the Shanghai Metro Guide App for real-time updates and offline maps
How to Get to Shanghai Attractions by Metro (Disney/Yu Garden etc.)
1. How to Get to Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden) by Metro
Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden in central Shanghai, is easily accessible by metro. Here’s how:
Line 10: Yuyuan Garden Station (豫园站), Exit 1 or 3.
Step | Action | Details |
1 | Take Line 10 | Head towards Yuyuan Garden Station. |
2 | Exit the Station | Use Exit 1 or 3—both lead directly to the Yu Garden area. |
3 | Walk to Yu Garden | From Exit 1: Walk 5 minutes south along Henan South Road (河南南路). From Exit 3: Walk 3 minutes east along Fuyou Road (福佑路). |
👉 Pro Tip: Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Chenghuang Temple (City God Temple) and the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar for souvenirs and snacks!
2. How to Get to Shanghai Disneyland by Metro
Shanghai Disneyland, the magical kingdom in Pudong, is conveniently connected by metro. Here’s your route:
Line 11: Disney Resort Station (迪士尼站).
Step | Action | Details |
1 | Take Line 11 | Board Line 11 (brown line) heading towards Disney Resort. |
2 | Arrive at Disney Resort Station | The station is just a 5-minute walk from the park entrance. |
3 | Follow Signs | Exit the station and follow the clearly marked signs to Shanghai Disneyland. |
- First Train to Disney: Line 11 starts running at 5:25 AM, so you can arrive early for rope drop!
- Last Train from Disney: The last train departs at 10:00 PM, perfect for catching the fireworks show.
3. How to Get to Other Popular Attractions by Metro
The Bund (Waitan)
- Nearest Station: East Nanjing Road Station (Line 2/10), Exit 7.
- Directions: Walk 10 minutes east along Nanjing Road to reach the Bund.
Oriental Pearl Tower (Lujiazui)
- Nearest Station: Lujiazui Station (Line 2), Exit 1.
- Directions: Walk 5 minutes to the tower.
Shanghai Museum (People’s Square)
- Nearest Station: People’s Square Station (Line 1/2/8), Exit 1.
- Directions: Walk 5 minutes to the museum.
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What to Prepare for a Trip to China?
- Visa & Entry Tips China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy now covers 54 countries, incl. the US, UK, Canada, and Brazil, allowing up to 10 days during layovers. Learn more about China Entry Tips to land in China easily.
- Getting Connected VPNs are vital for accessing Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, etc in China. Set one up before arriving. China eSIMs are the easiest option for data and bypassing restrictions. Pocket Wi-Fi devices work best for group but are pricier and require pickup/return.
- Money Exchange & Tax Refunds Exchange money in China banks (better rates than airports). ATMs accept foreign cards, but notify your bank first. For tax refunds, spend over ¥500 at stores with a "Tax-Free" sign. Keep receipts and get forms stamped at customs before departure.
Must-Have Apps in China
- China Payment Apps Forget cash. Chinese use Alipay (I like it better) or WeChat Pay to pay for everything in China. Scan a QR code at noodle stalls, metros, even temples. Link your foreign Visa/Mastercard before landing.
- China Map Apps Amap (Gaode Map) & Baidu Map (limited English) is what locals use, with real-time navigation, metro/bus routes, and traffic updates. Apple Maps does a good job too if you're already an IOS user.
- China Transport Apps Street taxis are cheap, but drivers rarely speak English. Use China Taxi App like DiDi (China’s Uber)—set your destination in English, pay by Alipay.
- China Travel Apps 15+ China trips taught me: Use Trip.com. It's the best English app for booking China trains/flights/hotels + finds Trip.com deals.
- China Dating Apps Locals use Tantan (China’s Tinder) and Momo. WeChat’s “People Nearby” works too, but expect language barriers unless your Mandarin’s decent.
- China Food App Use Meituan (also helps find nearby restaurants) or Ele.me for food delivery—both have English mode. No English menu in restaurants? Scan the QR with Alipay's translator.
FAQs about Shanghai Metro
How to use Shanghai Metro as a foreigner?
As a foreigner, using the Shanghai Metro is straightforward: navigate using clear English station signs and bilingual maps in stations (and apps like MetroMan or Baidu Maps), purchase single-journey tickets from vending machines (with cash) or use a rechargeable Shanghai Public Transportation Card (available at service counters), or pay via QR code using Alipay/WeChat Pay (requires linked Chinese bank card or Tour Pass). Follow station signage to platforms, trains display route info in English, listen for English announcements, and tap your ticket/card/QR code on the gate sensors to enter and exit.Is Shanghai Metro 24 hours?
No, the Shanghai Metro does not operate 24 hours a day; standard operating hours are approximately 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM for most lines and stations, although the exact start and end times vary slightly by line and station (check specific station schedules via official apps or websites, especially for the final train departure times from your location).How do I go to Shanghai Museum by metro?
To reach the Shanghai Museum, take Metro Line 1 or Line 8 to People's Square Station (人民广场站), then use Exit 1 or Exit 2; upon exiting the station, the iconic building of the Shanghai Museum is clearly visible directly across the large square (People's Square itself), and it's just a 1-2 minute walk north from the exits (follow the signage leading to the museum within the station complex).How many Shanghai Metro stations are there?
With continuous network expansion, the Shanghai Metro currently has over 400 active stations (as of late 2023 / early 2024, exceeding 500 lines when including all station entrances/exits across the vast network spanning 19+ lines), making it the world's largest metro system by route length and one of the largest by number of stations.How to pay for public transport in Shanghai for foreigners?
Foreigners can pay for Shanghai public transport (metro, buses, ferries, maglev) using: 1) Shanghai Public Transportation Card (physical card purchased/recharged at metro stations, convenience stores); 2) Single-Journey Tickets (cash only, bought at metro vending machines); 3) QR Codes via Alipay (set up the "Transport QR Code" in the app, requires passport verification and potentially linking a Chinese bank card or using the "Tour Pass" mini-program for limited top-ups); 4) WeChat Pay (similar QR code setup within the app); 5) Contactless bank cards (still limited acceptance).How to buy a ticket for Shanghai Metro?
To buy a physical single-journey ticket for the Shanghai Metro, find the automatic ticket vending machines (TVMs) in any station lobby; select the English language option on the screen, tap your destination station on the map display (or enter the station name), choose the number of tickets (default is 1), insert coins or bills (machines accept ¥0.50, ¥1 coins and ¥5, ¥10, ¥20, ¥50, ¥100 bills), collect your ticket and any change; use this ticket to tap in at the gate and insert it into the slot when exiting.