Shanghai 24/240-Hour Visa Free Transit Guide: Know Before You Go

Author's Profile Picture
Shanghai visa free transit

Planning a trip to Shanghai? Visa requirements depend on your eligibility. Whether you’re visiting for a layover or a longer stay, knowing the visa-free transit rules can help you plan a smoother journey. This guide covers the 24-hour and 240-hour visa-free transit options and key requirements.

24/240-hour China Visa-free Transit Rules

24/240-hour China Visa-free Transit Rules

**Transit Hall**

China provides convenient visa‑free transit options for travelers from various countries. Most foreign travelers transiting through China to a third destination by plane, ship, or train can enjoy a visa‑free stay of up to 24 hours, provided they do not leave the port of entry. However, if leaving the port is necessary, a temporary entry permit is required. Currently, citizens from 55 countries can transit through 24 provinces in China for up to 240 hours (10 days) without needing a visa.

Feature

24-Hour Visa-Free Transit

240-Hour Visa-Free Transit

Stay Duration

Up to 24 hours

Up to 10 days (240 hours)

Eligible Nationalities

Travelers of all nationalities

Citizens of 55 eligible countries

Entry Ports

All open ports of entry in China

65 designated ports across 24 provincial-level regions

Permitted Areas

Restricted port transit area only

Designated areas across 24 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities

Transport Methods

International flights, ships, or trains

International flights, ships, or trains

Key Requirements

Valid international travel documents and confirmed onward tickets to a third country or region

Valid international travel documents and confirmed onward tickets with a departure date and seat to a third country or region

Time Calculation

Based on the actual entry time

Starts from 00:00 on the day after entry

Temporary Entry Permit

Required to leave the restricted transit area; apply through the port immigration inspection authority

Not required

*All information is from Chinese Visa Application Service Center which updated the newest change in November 2025. Please check here if want to explore more detail.

🎁 Search Cheap flights to Shanghai and the Best hotels in Shanghai! Book 3% Off China Train.

How to Apply Shanghai 24-Hour Visa Free Transit

How to Apply Shanghai 24-Hour Visa Free Transit

**Transit Apply**

Since March 15, 2012, Shanghai Pudong International Airport has been the pioneer in implementing the 24 Hour Visa free Transit policy in China. This policy allows travelers from any country with connecting tickets (by air, ship, or train) to a third country or region to enjoy a 24 hour visa free transit without undergoing border inspection formalities. During this period, travelers must not leave the restricted areas of the port. If they need to leave the port area, they must apply to the port immigration inspection authorities for a Temporary Entry Permit.

Documents Required

To apply for a 24-hour visa-free transit in China, travelers must prepare the following documents:

Required Document

Description

Valid Passport or International Travel Document

Must be valid for at least 3 months from the date of entry into China.

Onward Ticket (Flight, Ship, or Train)

Must have a confirmed seat and departure date to a third country or region.

Temporary Entry Card for Foreigners

Complete at border control or submit online in advance via official channels, including the NIA website, NIA 12367 app, WeChat/Alipay mini programs, or QR code.

Visa for the Third Country (if required)

If your destination requires a visa, obtain it before applying for 24-hour visa-free transit.

Process of 24-Hour Visa Free Transit

The process of applying for 24-hour visa-free transit in Shanghai is as follows:

Step

Scenario 1: Staying Inside the Restricted Port Area (Direct Transit)

Scenario 2: Leaving the Restricted Port Area (Temporary Entry Permit Required)

Eligibility

Hold an onward ticket to a third country or region within 24 hours

Hold an onward ticket within 24 hours and have a valid reason to leave the port area

Visa Required?

No visa or border inspection formalities required

A Temporary Entry Permit is required

Arrival Card

Not required

Complete the Temporary Entry Card for Foreigners

Where to Go

Follow signs for “International Transfer” or “Direct Transit” to the transit area

Visit the 24/240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Service Zone and apply at the immigration counter

Passport Handling

No stamp or visa sticker issued

Border authorities issue a Temporary Entry Permit (not a visa)

Luggage

Checked baggage is transferred to the final destination; no collection required

Complete entry procedures, collect baggage, and clear customs

Permitted Area

Limited to the international transit area and restricted port zones

Travel within Shanghai and other designated areas allowed under the policy

Eligible Nations

China's 24‑hour visa‑free transit policy applies to citizens of all countries at all open ports of entry.

However, there are specific exceptions at certain airports:

Nationals of Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, Oman, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Thailand, Turkey, Turkmenistan, and Yemen transiting through Xiamen Gaoqi Airport (XMN) are not eligible and must apply for a visa in advance.

Syrian citizens transiting through Guangzhou Baiyun Airport (CAN) are not eligible and must apply for a visa in advance.

Valid Route for 24‑Hour Transit

Eligible routes must follow a specific pattern: passengers must transit from one country or region to a third country or region via mainland China. For example, a route from Country A → China → Country C qualifies (e.g., USA → China → Japan). A route from Country A → China → Country A (e.g., USA → China → USA) does not meet the eligibility criteria.

Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan can be treated as separate regions for this purpose.

Benefits of Shanghai 24‑Hour Visa‑Free Transit

  • No need to apply for a visa before your flight
  • Saves time and money
  • Opportunity for a visa‑free visit to the city during layovers (provided you obtain a Temporary Entry Permit)
🎁 Search Cheap flights to Shanghai and the Best hotels in Shanghai! Book 3% Off China Train.

How to Apply Shanghai 240-Hour Visa Free Transit

How to Apply Shanghai 240-Hour Visa Free Transit

**Transit Visa**

The 240-Hour Visa-free Transit in Shanghai offers a ten-day visa-free stay in Shanghai and other provinces within 24 eligible provinces for nationals from 55 countries. As long as you have connecting tickets (by air, ship, or train) to a third country or region with confirmed seats and a departure date within 240 hours. Travelers can enter or exit through any of the designated ports in Shanghai and are permitted to stay within the administrative regions of 24 provinces for up to 240 hours without the need for a Chinese Visa.

Process of 240-Hour Visa Free Transit

Step

Action

1. Notify the Airline

Inform check-in staff that you plan to use the 240-hour visa-free transit policy.

2. Prepare Documents

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months and prepare a confirmed onward ticket to a third country or region.

3. Complete the Arrival Card

Fill out the arrival card at the port or submit it online in advance via the NIA 12367 app, WeChat, or Alipay.

4. Go to the Service Zone

Follow signs to the designated 24/240-hour visa-free transit counter after arrival.

5. Submit Documents and Receive Permit

Present your passport, onward ticket, and arrival card. Immigration officers will issue a Temporary Entry Permit if approved.

6. Complete Entry Procedures

Pass immigration, collect baggage, clear customs, and begin your stay within the permitted areas.

Note: Your 240‑hour stay begins from 00:00 the day after entry.

Document Required

Getting your paperwork right is straightforward. Here is what you need to bring.

  • A valid passport: Make sure it has at least three months of validity left from the day you arrive in China. If it is close to expiring, you will likely be turned away.
  • An onward ticket to a third country or region: This needs to be a confirmed booking with a fixed date and a seat number, all within that 240‑hour window. Without a ticket out, you will not get the permit.
  • The arrival card: You can fill this out on the plane or at the transit counter after you land. There is also an online option now through the NIA platform, WeChat, or Alipay if you prefer to do it ahead of time.
  • Be ready for a quick chat with the border officer: They will check your documents and ask a few questions about your trip. This is a routine step, so just answer clearly and honestly.
  • One more thing: this policy currently covers citizens of 55 countries, and you can enter through any of the 65 open ports across 24 provinces. Your 240 hours start counting from 00:00 the day after you arrive, not from the moment you land. Keep that in mind when planning your departure.

Eligible Nations

Citizens of 55 countries benefit from an extended 240-hour Shanghai visa-free transit policy, applicable at 65 ports across 24 provinces in China. These countries include those from Europe, the Americas, Oceania, and Asia. Below is a full list of them:

Region

Countries

Europe (40 countries)

Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, Russia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Belarus, Norway

Americas (6 countries)

United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile

Oceania (2 countries)

Australia, New Zealand

Asia (7 countries)

South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Indonesia

* All information is from official website and may be changed by newest policy. So please check the official website before you go.

Designated 240-Hour Transit Ports

There are a total of 17 designated ports of entry and exit in the Yangtze River Delta region. Among them, Shanghai has 3 ports (two airports and one seaport). Jiangsu Province has 4 ports (Nanjing, Sunan Shuofang, Yangzhou Taizhou airports, and Lianyungang seaport). Zhejiang Province has 6 ports (Hangzhou, Ningbo, Wenzhou, Yiwu airports, and Wenzhou and Zhoushan seaports). Anhui Province has 2 ports (Hefei and Huangshan airports).

Transit passengers have the flexibility to enter or exit through any of these ports. It's possible to transit directly in Shanghai or transfer to Shanghai after entering from Nanjing (Jiangsu Province) or Hangzhou and Ningbo (Zhejiang Province).

Designated Ports of Entry & Exit (1):

  • Shanghai Pudong International Airport
  • Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport
  • Shanghai Port (Passenger)
  • Nanjing Lukou International Airport
  • Sunan Shuofang International Airport
  • Yangzhou Taizhou International Airport
  • Lianyungang Port (Passenger)
  • Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport
  • Ningbo Lishe International Airport
  • Wenzhou Longwan International Airport
  • Yiwu Airport
  • Wenzhou Port (Passenger)
  • Zhoushan Port (Passenger)
  • Hefei Xinqiao International Airport
  • Huangshan Tunxi International Airport

Valid Transit Route

Passengers on a round-trip flight, such as USA to Shanghai and back to USA, are NOT eligible for the Shanghai visa-free transit regulations. The policy requires that the destination country on your onward ticket must be different from your departure country when entering China. This is often referred to as the A-B-C rule: you must fly from Country A → China → Country C (a third country), not a round trip (A-B-A).

Route

Valid?

Reason

USA → Singapore → Shanghai → USA

❌ Not Valid

The final destination is the same as the departure country. Transit must be to a third country or region, not the origin.

Singapore → Shanghai → Hong Kong/Macau

✅ Valid

Singapore and Hong Kong/Macau are considered different regions, meeting the A → China → B transit requirement.

Australia → Shanghai → Hangzhou → Suzhou → Japan

✅ Valid

Australia and Japan are different countries, and travel within the permitted areas is allowed during the stay.

USA → Shanghai → USA

❌ Not Valid

A round trip without a third country or region does not meet the transit requirement.

🎁 Search Cheap flights to Shanghai and the Best hotels in Shanghai! Book 3% Off China Train.

Free Layover Tours During Shanghai Visa‑Free Transit

Free Layover Tours During Shanghai Visa‑Free Transit

If you have more than 8 hours in Shanghai and have entered through the visa‑free policy, you can join the Shanghai Express Half‑Day Layover Tour. This free service is designed for international travellers on a short stop and includes a coach, a local guide, and a quick tour of highlights such as the Bund. For schedules and bookings, head over to the Trip.com Shanghai Express page.

[Discount] Shanghai Hotel Recommendations

Grab discounts on Shanghai hotels on Trip.com—my go-to for booking reliable stays in Shanghai.

Shanghai Hotels

5 star

9.4/10Outstanding11956 Reviews
People's Square Area Shanghai|0.54km from city center
This time, when I brought my child to Shanghai for a trip, I still chose the Crowne Plaza Shanghai Nanjing Road. After a tiring full day at Disneyland, we arrived at the hotel and were grateful for the room upgrade to a suite. After checking out, we realized we had left a bag behind. A big thank you to staff member #066 who helped us find it and even arranged for it to be couriered home. The service here is absolutely amazing! Thank you very much! ❤️❤️
FromUS$91
9.5/10Outstanding6418 Reviews
People's Square Area Shanghai|0.47km from city center
I made a special trip to leave a review after my stay, and it was a perfect experience. The hotel boasts an excellent location and a warm, tranquil interior design. The rooms are well-laid out, and the cleanliness standards are strict. The bedding and bathroom amenities are of good quality. What truly impressed me most was the hotel's overall service quality. The staff are well-trained, proactive in anticipating guests' needs, respond efficiently, and are friendly and approachable. There's no mechanical, rote service; instead, every interaction feels genuinely warm. While good facilities are fundamental, the exceptional, personalized service is undoubtedly the hotel's biggest highlight. Consequently, I extended my stay by another night, and Lynn at the front desk thoughtfully accommodated my request. This is definitely a hotel I'll choose again.
FromUS$103
9.5/10Outstanding8248 Reviews
People's Square Area Shanghai|0.7km from city center
The hotel's location is excellent, right next to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, and only a few minutes' walk to Metro Line 2, making getting around super convenient. The hotel's design is luxurious, grand, and elegant, upholding Marriott's quality standards. The front desk and lobby staff are all very friendly; they even offered us drinks when we checked in. Cora, the guest service manager at the front desk, was incredibly efficient and professional during our check-in process. Because my other booking was split into three separate reservations, she expertly consolidated them for a continuous three-night stay, saving me the hassle of changing rooms daily. Even though I forgot to add a note when booking, she managed to put my sister and me on the same floor. Huge thanks to her for getting our three-day Shanghai trip off to such a great start! The hotel breakfast is abundant and delicious, with Shanghai-style scallion oil noodles available daily, plus many freshly made noodle and wonton stations. There's a wide selection of both Chinese and Western options. The cleaner responsible for my room, 2805, did an outstanding job; after a day out, we returned to a clean and tidy room, which was a pleasant surprise! The city view from the room is also beautiful. All in all, it was a very happy and satisfying stay! Definitely a 5-star recommendation!
FromUS$141
9.3/10Very Good5303 Reviews
Huaihai Road Area/Xintiandi Area Shanghai|1.78km from city center
Booked Garden Hotel for my mom's birthday, and they even sent a box of chocolates, which was a thoughtful touch. The room facilities are quite old, but it was clean, very business-oriented, and spacious. The butter cookies I specifically bought were delicious! My mom particularly praised the service, saying it truly lives up to its reputation as a classic five-star hotel in Shanghainese people's hearts. It was very pleasant to take a walk in the garden after dinner. The breakfast the next day had a Japanese focus, with onsen eggs, natto, and smoked salmon. Overall, a good experience.
FromUS$97
9.4/10Outstanding10557 Reviews
Train Station Area Shanghai|2.4km from city center
This time, my family and I stayed in an Executive Suite at the Pullman Shanghai Jing An. First off, the hotel's location is incredibly convenient. It's right near Shanghai Railway Station, so if you're coming by high-speed rail, you're there in just five minutes after exiting the station. There's also Metro Line 1 right outside, about 50 meters away, making it easy to get to many famous Shanghai attractions. The suite consists of a bedroom and a living room, which was more than enough space for our family. The living room has a sofa bed that unfolds into a small bed, which was very practical. The room itself was clean and tidy, with complete amenities, and the kids really enjoyed the screen-mirroring TV. The front desk service was excellent, both during check-in and check-out. We'll definitely stay here again.
FromUS$82

Show more

Business travel

9/10Good2521 Reviews
Jing'an District/West Nanjing Road Shanghai|0.85km from city center
I stayed at this hotel back when it was still the Kempinski and always had a pleasant experience. This time, under the new IHG Vignette Collection branding, the stay fell far short of expectations. Upon arrival, there was no one outside to assist with luggage. Staff members only rushed out after they saw me already pulling my bags from the car myself. The check-in process was noticeably slower, and I wasn’t offered an upgrade — which used to be a regular, appreciated gesture during my previous stays. I was given one of the smallest rooms I’ve ever had in this hotel. The room itself had several issues. The microwave didn’t work at all, so I couldn’t heat up the takeaway I’d brought. The bedroom TV remote wasn’t responsive; I struggled with it for a long time and eventually just managed to turn the TV off, but not control it. The worst part was the noise from the room above — constant, disruptive sounds that went on until well past midnight, severely affecting my sleep. I did call reception about it, but the noise continued. Checkout felt impersonal and rushed. No one asked how my stay was. I simply handed over my room key and that was it. When my pre-ordered car had trouble finding the hotel entrance, I handed the phone to a staff member expecting them to guide the driver. Instead, he simply found out where the car was parked, handed the phone back, and left me to drag my luggage there on my own. The only positive is the central location, which remains excellent. But for service, room comfort, and attention to detail, this was a letdown. I hope they can bring back the standards they used to have.
FromUS$155
9.6/10Excellent9305 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.73km from city center
Location: Superb! It's about 500 meters to the Bund and 500 meters to Yu Garden and the City God Temple. Within 2 kilometers, you'll find nothing but commercial areas, making it convenient to go anywhere. Service: The hotel staff use robots to deliver express packages to your room – excellent service! Facilities: The hotel's restaurant serves excellent, delicious food. Hygiene: The hotel is very clean, and the rooms are spacious. Our whole family was very satisfied.
FromUS$103
9/10Good8592 Reviews
The North Bund Area Shanghai|2.55km from city center
I’d love to highly recommend this hotel. My stay exceeded all expectations. The lobby features an elegant style with pleasant lighting and layout, creating a quiet and cozy atmosphere. The staff are warm and courteous throughout. Special thanks to Jerry, who is efficient, thoughtful and extremely friendly. Check-in was smooth and seamless, with great attention to detail and professional service. The place is clean and tastefully decorated, making guests feel totally at ease. It’s ideal for both leisure trips and business stays. Truly a wonderful experience. Strongly recommended!
FromUS$119
9.1/10Good3805 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.27km from city center
Opted for the room type with a separate TV area and it was such a good decision for families. My kid could be sleeping in the room while I was working or watching TV outside. However, beds are SMALL, only a super single so even though kids under 6 could stay in the room for free, it was quite a squeeze on the bed to fit both the adult and the child. Hotel service is good though, gave a complimentary westin bear to my child and the concierge helped me with my restaurant bookings though they gave me some wrong info on the reservation dates window period. Their gym was AMAZING had a wide variety of equipment not normally found in most gyms like a pull up bar, assisted squat rack. Only missing a dips bar. However the swimming pool seemed alright only. Indoor and sufficient but lacked in looks appeal.
FromUS$134
9.2/10Very Good5763 Reviews
People's Square Area Shanghai|0.9km from city center
It was an interesting stay. Great location right off the shopping boulevard. The hotel has a bar and two restaurants. A spa, a foot spa, and gym. We had lounge access which was a nice bonus but not really worth the extra money. You get free breakfast, appetizers from 6-8, and lounge access for coffee and sodas from 1-930. The breakfast was yummy. Offered a wide selection of food with regional dishes to western foods. One of the few places I’ve traveled outside the US that has actual bacon. We never waited but there was a sign saying there were peak hours. Check in was great. I had an issue with a bag left in a DiDi and the front desk agent went out of his way to help me get in touch with driver to recover my bag. The room much like the rest of the hotel feels trapped in that fake opulence that was popular awhile back. The shower was awkward because of its shape but it did have a rain shower which was nice. One of the few hotels I’ve been in lately that didn’t have the bath stuff bolted to the wall (though it probably wouldn’t fit). Huge tub and large fluffy towels. My daughter and I both left with some bug bites from our stay not bed bugs but definitely something. The biggest drawback to the room is the lack of functional outlets. One bed has no open plugs or usb ports the other bed has a wonky extension cord with some usb ports. Found one other usb in the room in the desk area. The hotel is doing some work apparently later this month so hopefully they bring it into this century. One thing I didn’t discover until the next day is there is an entrance from the back of the hotel right on the big shopping street. There’s also a cute little food court right there where you can grab a pretty decent variety of food. One warning is didi and food delivery have a hard time with the address
FromUS$89

Show more

Family friendly

9.3/10Very Good4119 Reviews
Jing'an District/West Nanjing Road Shanghai|2.6km from city center
After comparing many hotels for my trip to Shanghai, I ultimately chose this one, and it proved to be an excellent decision! 👍 While the room facilities aren't brand new, the overall experience was still great, and it doesn't feel dated at all. The hotel's location is also superb, right near Exit 3 of Jing'an Temple Station, making it incredibly convenient to get to various attractions. The view from the room window was beautiful, and the kids were very comfortable and happy! I'll definitely choose this hotel again on my next visit to Shanghai! It offers fantastic value for money compared to other hotels!
FromUS$104
9.4/10Outstanding7413 Reviews
Dapuqiao Area Shanghai|2.92km from city center
What truly surprised me and made my stay memorable was the front desk service! As soon as I entered the lobby, a staff member immediately offered to help with my luggage. During check-in, the staff were not only smiling throughout, but also carefully inquired about our preferences and specifically arranged a quiet room on a high floor for us. The front desk staff member wearing silver glasses was particularly impressive.
FromUS$101
9.4/10Outstanding14567 Reviews
Lujiazui Area Shanghai|2.51km from city center
The hotel's location is excellent, right within the core Lujiazui scenic area. The Oriental Pearl TV Tower and the 'Lujiazui Three-piece Set' are all within easy reach, and subway access is also very convenient. The staff were all warm and patient. Vinnie, who checked me in at the front desk, was enthusiastic, professional, and efficient. My room was on a high floor with a great view. Although it's not a brand-new hotel, it's very well-maintained. All in all, it was a very pleasant stay. For anyone visiting Shanghai, staying here is really a great choice!
FromUS$162
9.4/10Outstanding10999 Reviews
Train Station Area Shanghai|2.52km from city center
I recently stayed at InterContinental Shanghai Jing’an and had a very pleasant experience overall. One of the biggest advantages of this hotel is its location. It is conveniently situated near Shanghai Railway Station and provides easy access to the metro, making it simple to get around the city whether you’re visiting for business or leisure. There are also plenty of dining and shopping options within a short distance. The staff were consistently friendly, welcoming, and helpful throughout my stay. Check-in was smooth, and whenever I had a question, the team was happy to assist with a smile. Their professionalism and hospitality definitely made the stay more enjoyable. The room was spacious, comfortable, and well maintained. The bed was very comfortable, and I appreciated the cleanliness of both the room and bathroom. The hotel has the upscale feel you would expect from an InterContinental property, while still feeling warm and comfortable. Bidet was a huge plus. Along with the shower While some areas of the hotel are starting to show a little age compared to newer luxury hotels in Shanghai, it is still very well kept and offers excellent value considering the location, facilities, and service. Overall, I had a great stay and would happily choose InterContinental Shanghai Jing’an again on a future visit to Shanghai. The convenient location and friendly staff were the highlights for me.
FromUS$115
9.5/10Outstanding4606 Reviews
Lujiazui Area Shanghai|2.69km from city center
The Executive Room was spacious and airy, with soft, comfortable bedding and exquisite bathroom amenities. The soundproofing was excellent, allowing for a truly peaceful rest. The hotel's location is superb, making getting around a breeze; you can hail a taxi right downstairs. A special shout-out to Jeremy from the Executive Lounge! From check-in to departure, he was attentive and thoughtful throughout. He proactively explained all the lounge benefits, from breakfast and afternoon tea to evening service, arranging everything with meticulous care and warmth. He was quick to respond to any request, demonstrating professionalism and genuine hospitality that made us feel like family. Our experience was perfect, highly recommended!
FromUS$309

Show more

Hot spring

9.5/10Outstanding2471 Reviews
Hongqiao District Shanghai|11.03km from city center
The Arnaadi is truly a hotel where there's a world of difference between staying once and staying many times. This is my third visit to Arnaadi for a healing vacation, and this time I brought my sister for the Dragon Boat Festival holiday. As soon as you step from the parking lot into the hotel, you can clearly smell the pleasant and stress-relieving lemongrass scent, which perfectly highlights the hotel's various aromatherapy-based healing activities. The room is cozy, well-equipped with high-quality amenities, and I particularly loved the showerhead in the bathroom with its rain mist option – it felt like being enveloped in a warm embrace, something you don't often find even in other high-end hotels. Our butler, Fairy, was incredibly thoughtful, understanding our preferences and needs in detail, and booking all our activities for us. Our two-day, one-night stay at the hotel was packed and incredibly rewarding. The hot springs experience was also fantastic; the pools were comfortable, and the bath towels provided were wonderfully dry, soft, and warm. Penny, the therapist for the German stress relief treatment, was kind and patient, and her service was meticulous. Even in just 18 minutes, the healing treatment significantly boosted my energy levels. I absolutely love Arnaadi and will definitely be back many more times. A huge thank you to Fairy – you're beautiful, thoughtful, full of positive energy and vitality. It was wonderful meeting you!
FromUS$200
9.3/10Very Good3354 Reviews
Shanghai Disney Resort Shanghai|21.83km from city center
This hotel is located within the Disney Resort, and the service was excellent. The breakfast spread was generous, and the room was spotless. We stayed for two nights, and every evening when we returned from the park, the room had been meticulously cleaned by housekeeping, and our clothes were even neatly folded on the bed. We really appreciate it! We'll definitely choose to stay here again next time we visit Disney.
FromUS$123
9.6/10Excellent2170 Reviews
Changfeng Park Area Shanghai|8.63km from city center
This was my first time staying at Onyado Nono, and I was incredibly impressed by all the thoughtful details and the beautiful environment. The serene Japanese garden offers picturesque views at every turn, with lush greenery, flowing water, and a koi pond. It was so relaxing to feed the fish and play with the little bunnies. The hotel also includes a complimentary handmade wind chimes workshop, which was a lovely way to create a personalized souvenir that chimed beautifully in the breeze. The entire staff was incredibly kind and attentive, offering considerate service without being overbearing. It's the perfect escape from the city hustle for a short, relaxing getaway. Highly recommend!
FromUS$81
8.8/10156 Reviews
Fengxian Development Zone Shanghai|32.57km from city center
The hotel room facilities are good, with everything that should be there. The smoking area outside is also very beautiful. The breakfast in the morning is very good, it is self-service, and there are freshly made noodles to eat. If you are thirsty, you can go downstairs at any time to have some drinks and fruits, which are all included in the hotel package. Why the deduction? Like many reviews wrote, the water in the pool here is really too hot. It is the hottest of all the hot springs in Shanghai that I have been to. It feels too hot. I saw that several children could hardly soak in the water for a while. I don’t know why so many people complained. I saw that the management was still saying in the comments that it met the hot spring temperature requirements. What they said is that your water is too hot, and they are giving you suggestions. Everyone in the hot spring said that the water was hot, not that you violated any regulations... It takes talent to reply like this
FromUS$57
9.6/10Excellent308 Reviews
Shanghai Disney Resort Shanghai|18.67km from city center
I visited Qianyun after looking at dozens of places in the area. I wanted to be away from typical city area, have a bathtub and nice outdoor area, and with easy access to Shanghai Disneyland. Qianyun met all those requirements and more! The location was immediately very serene and surrounded by forest, but still easy to access lots of waimai food delivery options. They were also very kind and proactive about sharing information about local restaurants and activities, and provide a breakfast and evening fruit every day. They offer free car transport to Disneyland, and I was excited to use this service but I ended up enjoying my time at the hotel so much that I opted to stay and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere instead! The hotel pets are so friendly - within five minutes the little cat Banban was on my lap and purring. The room itself is decorated very nicely with all the amenities you need. The bathtub inside is very comfortable and I loved the outdoor hot spring tub as well. The attention to hygiene is very highly emphasized and I was impressed with how clean and luxurious everything felt. I will definitely visit again and recommend to anyone hoping to have a convenient getaway from the city, or who would like to be near to Disneyland Resort while also experiencing a more peaceful area and for a good economical value and high quality service! Thankyou for the wonderful stay, I felt very welcome at all times.
FromUS$117

Show more

Gym

9.5/10Outstanding4499 Reviews
Huaihai Road Area/Xintiandi Area Shanghai|0.97km from city center
Location: The hotel is located in the core business district of Xintiandi and the Site of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China. It's super convenient, about 300 meters from the subway, with great options for dining and shopping nearby. Facilities: The hotel breakfast is excellent, and you can order a main course (the asparagus and salmon is fantastic, both in presentation and taste). The coffee is also great. My favorite part was the waterfall-like shower—so relaxing! Although the hotel is older, the facilities are well-maintained. The room lighting control is user-friendly, and the charging outlets are very convenient (multi-purpose, I'm definitely getting one!). Cleanliness: The hotel uses Diptyque toiletries. Staff proactively close the blackout curtains for you in the evening, and there's an endless supply of mineral water. I'll definitely choose this hotel again for my next business trip to Shanghai.
FromUS$174
9.3/10Very Good3202 Reviews
Jing'an District/West Nanjing Road Shanghai|2.12km from city center
Excellent service . Ritz Carlton Portman Shanghai. I been staying here for the past 20 years traveling to Shanghai from San Francisco. Jing an district on nanjing west road in the middle of everything. .. biggest Starbucks in the world just a few blocks away the new Louis Vuitton boat ship store right across the street from Starbucks.. pretty good walk to the bund and nanjing road .. .. Sunny ,,the bartender mixes excellent drinks .
FromUS$158
9.4/10Outstanding4619 Reviews
Jing'an District/West Nanjing Road Shanghai|4.54km from city center
The hotel's location is convenient, the environment is comfortable and tidy, and the facilities are complete. It's not just equipped with a large fridge, washing machine, and microwave, but also various daily necessities, which is incredibly convenient. The staff's service attitude is excellent; they are attentive and patient, and always provide timely assistance with guests' needs. The overall stay experience exceeded my expectations, absolutely deserving of a five-star rating! 🌟
FromUS$73
9.7/10Excellent5933 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.78km from city center
Facilities: Steeped in history with a vintage charm. The rooms are meticulously restored to their original grandeur, featuring high-end toiletries as standard, an indoor pool, and the iconic jazz bar. Cleanliness: Despite being nearly a century old, guests consistently report no musty or moldy odors. Rooms are described as ”very comfortable and clean,” with daily housekeeping and turn-down service being meticulous. Ambiance: Impeccable. Located at the prime intersection of the Bund and Nanjing East Road, it's just a 2-3 minute walk to the Bund viewing platform. The entire building is a historical landmark itself, and the common areas exude old Shanghai charm, perfect for photos. Service: The staff are warm and professional. Even with daily visitors coming in just to take pictures, they are always treated with politeness. They also offer free historical tours, providing insight into the hotel's rich past.
FromUS$357
9.4/10Outstanding18424 Reviews
Lujiazui Area Shanghai|3.12km from city center
My stay was incredibly pleasant, and the hotel facilities were excellent. The front desk team provided truly warm service. The staff were energetic and welcoming, handling all matters efficiently and in an orderly fashion. They proactively offered helpful travel advice, showing thoughtful attention to every detail. My entire stay was comfortable, and the high-quality service made my trip even more perfect. I've stayed at this hotel multiple times, and each visit I've experienced the exceptional service from the front desk. The staff consistently deliver high standards of service, treating guests with politeness and respect, and making check-in quick and efficient. They are particularly attentive to the needs of returning guests, and any issues can be communicated and resolved promptly. The consistently high-quality service over time makes this my preferred hotel choice for travel.
FromUS$188

Show more

Swimming pool

9.5/10Outstanding3805 Reviews
Jing'an District/West Nanjing Road Shanghai|0.94km from city center
My birthday stay at The Sukhothai Shanghai was an absolute delight from start to finish, and I simply have to gush about it! The location is incredibly convenient. The hotel is directly connected to the Taikoo Li shopping mall, so you can shop to your heart's content without worrying about the weather. The subway station is just a three-minute walk away, and it's easy to hail a taxi right outside. Plus, there's an abundance of restaurants nearby, making dining out effortless. The service was exceptionally thoughtful and warm. The hotel proactively called me the day before to confirm my arrival time. A special shout-out to Joy from Guest Relations – knowing it was for my birthday, she went above and beyond by decorating the room beautifully and even upgraded us to a suite. During check-in, she patiently explained all the room amenities and was incredibly responsive to any requests we had. The attention to detail was impeccable. The upgraded suite was spacious, and the decor perfectly matched my taste. The hotel's signature scent is subtle and pleasant, immediately creating a sense of relaxation and comfort as soon as I stepped in. The bathroom was uncommonly large for a hotel in this price range, and the toiletries felt gentle and soothing. I had seen some negative reviews about the breakfast, but my experience showed that it has clearly been improved and optimized. The almond croissant was deliciously flaky, and the Tom Yum Goong noodle soup was warming and authentic. The hotel's Thai restaurant serves authentic cuisine, and guests even get an 8.8% discount. Unfortunately, my stay was too short, and I was genuinely sad to check out. I had such a memorable and wonderful birthday here. I will definitely choose The Sukhothai again the next time I visit Shanghai.
FromUS$250
9.3/10Very Good4230 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|2.48km from city center
I booked a twin room facing the Bund, and at check-in, the front desk told me that the highest floors for this room type were 17th or 18th. However, I later saw on the Ctrip booking page that it showed up to around the 30th floor. I'm not sure which information to trust, but the room the staff member gave me had a pretty good view, despite being on a slightly lower floor. The room's furnishings were quite basic; they even had outdoor-style tables and chairs, which felt a bit cheap. The air conditioning vent was quite noisy, which might bother light sleepers. The housekeeping service needs improvement; I pressed the button for cleaning, but they didn't come on time. They only showed up right before their shift ended and did a rather perfunctory job. I'd say that considering the location and price, it still offers good value for money. However, the hotel was very busy, and we had to queue for breakfast.
FromUS$144
9.4/10Outstanding5694 Reviews
Jing'an District/West Nanjing Road Shanghai|2.33km from city center
Jingan Shangri-la is amazing and a must stay in Shanghai. We've experienced excellent service from every hotel staff member we came across with. There was a night when we were majorly disturbed by another room and hotel Manager Parry called us the next day to offer us a complimentary change and upgrade of room for our last night. This was truly good follow-up from the night before and its highly commendable. Rooms itself had gorgeous views and were very clean. High tea and happy hour at the Horizon Lounge far exceeded our expectations with huge options and extremely delicious canapes, small dishes and drinks. The breakfast spread was also really loved by our kids as there was an ice cream bar with lots of ice cream options. We will be back, thank you!
FromUS$222
9.3/10Very Good9009 Reviews
Lujiazui Area Shanghai|3.19km from city center
Excellently located near the shanghai bund and a 10 min walk from lujiazui station the hotel offered spectacular views. A wide variety of eateries are available nearby as well. Lounge dinner was excellent, with a wide variety of dishes like roast duck, cha siu and honey chicken. Breakfast had variety and the staff were happy to accommodate when they knew i had allergies to certain types of food. Would certainly recommend and will consider staying here again in the future.
FromUS$123
9.3/10Very Good4700 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.58km from city center
This hotel's location is absolutely top-tier among Shanghai's luxury hotels! Housed in the historic No. 2 Bund building, it boasts a century of history, directly overlooking the Huangpu River, and is right in the city center. It completely outshines newer hotels in Lujiazui and Jing'an in terms of both historical charm and convenience. What truly impressed me was the service – Aaron, Coco, and Emily from the concierge team were incredibly attentive throughout my stay. That's definitely a huge plus!
FromUS$327

Show more

Breakfast

9.5/10Outstanding10449 Reviews
Sheshan, Songjiang University Town Shanghai|35.83km from city center
The Deep Pit Hotel offers stunning views and a tranquil, pleasant environment, providing a truly immersive experience. Our butler, Bruce, was professional and incredibly warm, offering thoughtful and meticulous service that truly enhanced our trip. He clearly put a lot of care into everything.
FromUS$210
9.3/10Very Good2556 Reviews
Wujiaochang Commercial Area Shanghai|9.08km from city center
My stay at the Shanghai Pagoda Junting Design Hotel in Wujiaochang was fantastic! The location is absolutely perfect, right in Wujiaochang Chuangzhi Tiandi. It's super close to the subway, University Road, and major shopping areas, making it incredibly convenient for dining, entertainment, and exploring. The room design is very stylish, with a panoramic floor-to-ceiling window offering great views, and the tatami area was very comfortable. The bedding was incredibly soft, ensuring a great night's sleep. The bathroom featured double sinks and a smart toilet, and the toiletries were exquisite. The service was thoughtful; check-in at the front desk was quick, and the staff were very friendly. Breakfast was extensive, with local Shanghainese snacks and freshly made noodles. They even offered free late-night snacks! The hotel was clean, and overall, it offered excellent value for money. I highly recommend it for both business and leisure travelers!
FromUS$80
9.5/10Outstanding556 Reviews
Hongqiao Airport/National Exhibition and Convention Center Shanghai|15.59km from city center
I stayed at the Hyatt House Shanghai Hongqiao CBD and found it to be a very solid choice, especially for business travel. The location is excellent, situated directly opposite the railway station and the airport, which makes onward travel extremely convenient. The rooms are spacious, clean, and comfortable, providing everything needed for a short business stay. The staff are friendly, helpful, and efficient, which adds to the overall positive experience. Breakfast is perfectly adequate and does the job well. For business trips in particular, or if you need to continue your journey by train the next day as I did, this hotel is a very convenient and comfortable option. Overall, I had a good stay and can definitely recommend it.
FromUS$86
9.3/10Very Good1640 Reviews
Everbright Convention and Exhibition Center Shanghai|12.35km from city center
My overall experience with the business I conducted at this location was incredibly pleasant, and I absolutely have to commend Audrey, the front desk staff member. Her thorough and thoughtful service throughout left a deep impression on me, and I'm writing this review to express my gratitude. As soon as I walked through the door, the front desk staff immediately stood up and greeted me warmly. Her tone was gentle and friendly, and she maintained a sincere smile, instantly easing any awkwardness I felt as a first-time visitor. I hadn't brought all the necessary documents with me and had many questions about the process, required materials, and fee standards. I was worried it would take a long time and that the staff might become impatient, but she was incredibly patient throughout, without a hint of perfunctoriness or laxity. She clearly explained each step of the process item by item. For technical terms I didn't understand, she rephrased them in easy-to-understand language and explained them repeatedly. Thoughtfully, she took out a pen and paper, wrote down a detailed list of materials I needed to provide, and noted important considerations for each item, saving me from making multiple trips. While I was waiting for the procedures to be processed, she saw me standing and proactively guided me to the seating area, even offering me drinking water. Her attentiveness was evident in every detail. When handling the business, she was skilled and efficient, verifying information carefully and meticulously. She double-checked every detail with me to prevent any errors. Midway through, I added several additional questions related to various different services, and she answered each one in detail, proactively informing me about related benefits and precautions, showing incredible thoughtfulness. Throughout our entire interaction, her demeanor was appropriate, polite, and humble, and her speaking pace was just right. She showed empathy for the customer's difficulties and displayed no impatience or perfunctoriness. Her professionalism and service awareness were impeccable. It's precisely because of such a diligent, responsible, and thoughtful front desk employee that the overall image of the establishment has been greatly enhanced, making my entire process smooth and worry-free. Such excellent service deserves high praise. If any friends or family have similar needs in the future, I will definitely recommend this establishment, and I hope the store will generously reward this dedicated staff member!
FromUS$33
9.7/10Excellent1938 Reviews
Hongqiao District Shanghai|8.21km from city center
I've found a real gem in this modern tower. The hotel occupies floors 15 to 18, and the reception is a 10/10 – the staff are super friendly, they offer coffee, tea, and little pastries, and there's also a very comfortable coworking area. The rooms are like a small studio with a kitchenette: microwave, washing machine, dryer, a full-size fridge, and plenty of closet space. The bed and pillows are extremely comfortable, and the shower… wow! The water pressure is amazing, absolutely wonderful. The door is floor-to-ceiling, so steam from long showers doesn't escape into the rest of the room. The sink area is a bit small, but it's fine for one or two people. Special mention: the magnifying mirror and the Japanese toilet – a real luxury that I really appreciated. We were so comfortable that we ended up extending our stay by 3 more days. The only downside: the metro is about 1 km away, maybe a bit more. But the value for money is so good that what you save on the hotel easily covers a taxi ride. From now on, this will be my go-to place in Shanghai. Highly recommended. I'll definitely be back.
FromUS$57

Show more

Show more

FAQs about Shanghai visa free transit

Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.
> >
Shanghai Visa Free Transit