Hi, I’m Alex Chen, a backpacker and budget-conscious traveler. I love exploring destinations independently while making sure my trips stay affordable and convenient. In this guide, I’ll take you through the best options to get from Shanghai Pudong Airport to the city center, sharing my personal tips for saving money and making the most of your journey. Let’s dive in!

Summary

Shanghai Pudong International Airport Overview

  • Airport Code: PVG
  • Address: Pudong New District, Shanghai, China
  • Distance from Downtown: 30 KM
  • Terminal Information
    • Terminal 1 (T1): This terminal handles both international and domestic flights. Major airlines operating here include China Eastern Airlines, Japan Airlines, and Korean Air.
    • Terminal 2 (T2): Catering to both international and domestic routes, T2 is home to most airlines operating at the airport.

Overview: Transportation Options from Shanghai Pudong Airport to the City Center

TransportTimeBudgetComfortFlexibilityLanguage Barrier
Maglev TrainFastModerateHighLowLow
SubwaySlowLowModerateHighModerate
BusModerateLowModerateModerateLow
TaxiModerateHighHighHighModerate
Ride-hailingModerateModerateModerateHighLow

1. How to Take the Shanghai Pudong Airport Maglev Train

The Maglev train from Pudong International Airport to downtown Shanghai is one of the most exciting ways to start your journey. This high-tech transport system can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h, offering a futuristic and thrilling experience. Here’s how to hop aboard and make the most of your Maglev ride: applicable for departures from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2!

Ticket Purchase Options

Buying a Maglev ticket is straightforward, and you have several options:

  • Ticket machines: Accept cash and UnionPay cards.
  • Ticket counters: Accept cash and credit cards, including VISA, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Diners Club, JCB, and UnionPay.
  • Online: Via official WeChat accounts or other booking platforms

Ticket Prices:

If you’re planning a return trip to the airport within 7 days, a round-trip ticket is more economical.

Ticket TypePriceValidity
One-way¥50Valid for the day
One-way (with flight)¥40Valid for the day
Round-trip¥80Valid within 7 days

Maglev Train Operating Hours:

  • Pudong Airport to Longyang Road: 07:02 – 21:42
  • Longyang Road to Pudong Airport: 06:45 – 21:40

Trains run every 15-20 minutes, and the entire trip only takes 8 minutes! Be sure to check the schedule ahead of time to coordinate with your travel plans.

Transfer Options at Longyang Road Station

Once you arrive at Longyang Road, you have several ways to continue your journey into the city center:

Shanghai Pudong Airport Maglev Train Directional Sign

2. How to Take Shanghai Pudong Airport Subway to the City Center

Looking for a budget-friendly and convenient way to get from Pudong Airport to downtown Shanghai? The Subway Line 2 is your best bet. This route not only takes you directly to the city center but also gives you a glimpse into Shanghai’s highly efficient public transportation system. Applicable for departures from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2!

Finding the Subway Station at Pudong Airport

The Pudong Airport Subway Station is located between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Follow these simple steps to find it:

  • Follow the signs for the subway within the airport.
  • Take the moving walkway to the B2 level.
  • Once you arrive, look for the Line 2 platform.

Buying a ticket is straightforward, and you have several options:

  • Ticket machines: Accept cash and UnionPay cards.
  • Ticket counters: Accept cash and credit cards, including VISA, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Diners Club, JCB, and UnionPay.
  • Transportation Card Purchase: Trip.com Discounts, Klook Deals, KKday Offers

Ticket Prices:

RoutePrice
Pudong Airport → Longyang Road¥6
Pudong Airport → East Nanjing Rd¥7
Pudong Airport → The Bund¥7

You can purchase a single-ride ticket, get a transportation card, or use an app for added convenience.

Note: Alipay is one of the most convenient apps to use for purchasing subway tickets. If you’re unfamiliar with it, I highly recommend reading my article on 5 Essential Apps for Travelers in China.

Shanghai Pudong Airport Metro Directional Sign

3. How to Take an Airport Taxi to Downtown Shanghai

Taxis are a convenient and comfortable way to travel from Pudong International Airport to downtown Shanghai. If you’re carrying heavy luggage or prefer door-to-door service, this may be the best choice. Applicable for departures from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2!

Taxi Guide

When you arrive at the airport, follow these steps to catch an official taxi:

  1. Follow the airport signs to the designated taxi waiting area.
  2. Queue in line—avoid accepting rides from unlicensed drivers.
  3. Make sure to choose a licensed taxi with official markings.
  4. Request the driver to use the meter to avoid overcharging.
  5. Keep your receipt for any future queries or complaints.

Estimated Costs and Travel Times:

DestinationEstimated FareEstimated Time
People’s Square¥180-22045-60 minutes
The Bund¥190-23050-65 minutes
Xujiahui¥200-24055-70 minutes
Shanghai Pudong Airport Taxi Directional Sign

4. How to Use Ride-Hailing Services from Shanghai Pudong Airport

In this digital age, another convenient option is to use ride-hailing services from Pudong International Airport to the city center. This method combines the flexibility of a traditional taxi with the convenience of modern technology. Applicable for departures from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2!

Ride-Hailing Apps:

There are two main ride-hailing apps to use in Shanghai:

Both apps offer English interfaces, making them easy for international travelers to navigate.

Shanghai Pudong Airport Bus Directional Sign and Waiting Point
Shanghai Pudong Airport Pickup and Drop-off Service

5. How to Take an Airport Bus to Downtown Shanghai

If you’re looking for an affordable yet comfortable way to travel from Pudong Airport to downtown Shanghai, the airport bus is a great option. Here’s what you need to know: applicable for departures from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2!

Main Routes and Destinations:

Pudong Airport has multiple bus lines that cover the city’s main areas. Here are some popular routes:

Shanghai Pudong Airport Bus Directional Sign

Best Ways to Travel Between Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport

Suburban Railway

  • Boarding Location: Suburban railway entrance; follow the signs for guidance.
  • Travel Time: 45 minutes
  • Fare: 26 RMB
  • Ticket Purchase: Same process as the metro system.
Shanghai Pudong Airport Suburban Railway Sign

Maglev Train + Metro

  • Route:
    • From Shanghai Pudong International Airport: Take the Maglev train to its terminus at Longyang Road Station, then transfer to Metro Line 2 and ride to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport.
    • From Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport: Take Metro Line 2 to Longyang Road Station, then switch to the Maglev train to reach Shanghai Pudong International Airport.
  • Travel Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Fare: 55 RMB
  • Ticket Purchase: Same process as the metro system.

Metro

  • Route: Metro Line 2 connects both airports directly.
  • Travel Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Fare: 8 RMB
  • Ticket Purchase: Same process as the metro system.
  • Transportation Card Purchase: Trip.com Discounts, Klook Deals, KKday Offers

Taxi/Ride-Sharing

  • Travel Time: 50 minutes (depending on traffic)
  • Cost: 200–250 RMB

Guide to Shanghai Pudong International Airport

Tax Refund

  • Eligibility for Tax Refund:
    • Purchases made by the same foreign traveler on the same day at the same tax refund store must total at least 500 RMB.
    • The date of departure must be within 90 days of the purchase date.
  • Refund Amount:
    • The refund rate is 13% of the invoice amount (including VAT), with 11% refunded directly to the traveler.
  • Refund Process:
    • Before Security Check: Customs verification and confirmation. Follow airport signage for guidance.
      1. T1 Terminal Customs Location: Opposite Gate 11 in the departure hall. Service times align with flight schedules.
      2. T2 Terminal Customs Location: Opposite Gate 25 in the departure hall. Service times align with flight schedules.
    • After Security Check:
      1. T1 Terminal: Near Gates 19 and 20 in the international, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan departure area. Open 24/7.
      2. T2 Terminal: Near Gate D83 in the same area. Open 24/7.
      3. Satellite Terminal S1: Near Gates G135 and G152 in the same area. Open 24/7.
    • For more detailed information on tax refunds, visit our China Tax Refund Guide.
Shanghai Pudong Airport Tax Refund Counter

Purchasing SIM Cards

Note: VPN is required to access services like Google and Line.

T1 Terminal

  • YouBanBan
    • Location: Beside the escalator handrail on the 2nd floor of the international, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan arrivals area (1E-W2).
    • Operating Hours: 8:00 AM–7:00 PM
    • Packages:
      • 200 RMB: 15GB data + 200 minutes, no usage time limit.
      • 300 RMB: 80GB data + 500 minutes, no usage time limit.
      • 500 RMB: 140GB data + 500 minutes, no usage time limit.
  • Roamingman
    • Location: Beside the escalator handrail on the 2nd floor of the same arrivals area (1E-W1).
    • Operating Hours: 6:00 AM–12:00 AM
  • AiChuxing
    • Location: Near Gate 9 in the public arrivals area (1D-W2).
    • Operating Hours: Open 24/7

T2 Terminal

  • YouBanBan
    • Location: Near Luggage Claim 27 in the international, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan arrivals area (2E-W1).
    • Operating Hours: 8:00 AM–10:00 PM
    • Packages:
      • 200 RMB: 15GB data + 200 minutes, no usage time limit.
      • 300 RMB: 80GB data + 500 minutes, no usage time limit.
      • 500 RMB: 140GB data + 500 minutes, no usage time limit.
  • YouBanBan (Alternative Location)
    • Location: Near Luggage Claim 26 in the same area (2E-W2).
    • Operating Hours: Open 24/7
  • Roamingman
    • Location: Near Wuzhou Middle Road in the public arrivals area (2D-W1).
    • Operating Hours: Open 24/7
  • AiChuxing
    • Location: Near Wuzhou Middle Road in the public arrivals area (2D-W2).
    • Operating Hours: Open 24/7

Transportation Between Terminals: T1 to T2 and T2 to T1

The distance between T1 and T2 terminals at Shanghai Pudong International Airport is walkable within 10 minutes. For travelers with heavy luggage, a free shuttle bus service is available.

  • Shuttle Bus Information:
    • Boarding Locations:
      • T1 Terminal: Outside Gates 1 and 11 on the departure level.
      • T2 Terminal: Outside Gates 21 and 26 on the departure level.
    • Travel Time: 5 minutes
    • Operating Hours: 24/7
    • Frequency:
      • Every 10 minutes from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
      • Every 15 minutes from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Payment App Assistance Counters (Overseas Visitor Payment Service Center)

To make it easier for international visitors to use WeChat Pay and Alipay in China, Shanghai Pudong International Airport provides dedicated payment assistance counters in both T1 and T2 terminals. These counters help travelers download and navigate Chinese payment apps.

  • Services Offered:
    • Assistance with downloading and installing WeChat Pay and Alipay apps.
    • Guidance on linking international bank cards and enabling payment functions.
    • Basic operational support and answers to frequently asked questions about using payment apps.
  • Locations:
    • T1 Terminal: 1st Floor, opposite Gate 10 at the international arrivals exit. Service hours: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.
    • T2 Terminal: 2nd Floor, near Exit 2A at international arrivals. Service hours: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.
Shanghai Pudong Airport Payment App Assistance Desk

Restaurant Information and Operating Hours at Shanghai Pudong International Airport

T1 Terminal (Post-Security)

  • Starbucks
    • Location: Near Gate G120 in the international, Hong Kong, and Macau departure area on the 3rd floor of S1 (S1B1-38-2).
    • Operating Hours: 6:30 AM–11:00 PM.
    • Menu: Coffee, snacks.
  • HePu Restaurant
    • Location: Near Gate 1 in the domestic departure area on the 1st floor (1C-36).
    • Operating Hours: 6:10 AM–10:00 PM.
    • Menu: Coffee, beverages, light meals.

T2 Terminal (Post-Security)

  • Starbucks
    • Location: Near Gate G152 in the international, Hong Kong, and Macau departure area on the 3rd floor of S2 (S2B-24-1).
    • Operating Hours: 6:00 AM–end of area flights.
    • Menu: Coffee, snacks.
  • Burger King
    • Location: Near Gate H170 in the domestic mixed area on the 2nd floor of S2 (S2C-3).
    • Operating Hours: 5:00 AM–end of area flights.
    • Menu: Burgers, snacks.

Duty-Free Store Hours

T1 Terminal

  • Sunrise Duty-Free
    • Location: Post-security in the international, Hong Kong, and Macau departure area.
    • Operating Hours: 7:00 AM–end of flights.
    • Products Available: Cigarettes, perfumes, cosmetics, sunglasses, luggage.

T2 Terminal

  • Sunrise Duty-Free
    • Location: Post-security in the international, Hong Kong, and Macau departure area.
    • Operating Hours: 7:00 AM–end of flights.
    • Products Available: Cigarettes, perfumes, cosmetics, sunglasses, luggage.

Luggage Storage Locations

T1 Terminal

  • Locations:
    • Between Gates 4 and 5 on the 3rd floor departure hall.
    • Opposite Gate 7 in the 1st floor arrival hall.
  • Operating Hours: 6:00 AM–12:00 AM.
  • Pricing: Based on duration and luggage size.
    • 0–4 hours: Small (below 20 inches): 15 RMB; Medium (20–28 inches): 30 RMB; Large (over 28 inches): 60 RMB.
    • 4–10 hours: Small: 20 RMB; Medium: 40 RMB; Large: 60 RMB.
    • 10–24 hours: Small: 25 RMB; Medium: 45 RMB; Large: 60 RMB.

T2 Terminal

  • Locations:
    • Near Island A in the 3rd floor departure hall.
    • Beside Exit 2A in the 2nd floor international arrivals hall.
  • Operating Hours: 6:00 AM–12:00 AM.
  • Pricing: Same as T1 terminal.
Shanghai Pudong Airport Luggage Storage Counter

Currency Exchange Locations

T1 Terminal

  • Locations:
    • Shanghai Pudong Development Bank: Near Gate 9 in the public departure area (1A-J1). Operating hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
    • Youlian Currency Exchange: Near the security checkpoint for international, Hong Kong, and Macau departures (1A-J2). Operating hours: 6:00 AM–11:00 PM.
    • Tongjilong Currency Exchange:
      • Post-security on the left side of international, Hong Kong, and Macau departures (1B-J1). Operating hours: 6:30 AM–12:00 AM.
      • Post-immigration on the left side of international, Hong Kong, and Macau arrivals (1E-J2). Operating hours: 6:30 AM–12:00 AM.
    • Ctrip Currency Exchange:
      • Post-security on the left side of international, Hong Kong, and Macau departures (1B-J2). Operating hours: 24/7.
      • Post-immigration on the right side of international, Hong Kong, and Macau arrivals (1E-J1). Operating hours: 24/7.

T2 Terminal

  • Locations:
    • Shanghai Pudong Development Bank: Near Check-in Area D in the public departure area (2A-J6). Operating hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
    • Tongjilong Currency Exchange: Near the escalator at Security Checkpoint 2 in the domestic mixed area (2C-J4). Operating hours: 6:30 AM–12:00 AM.
    • United Currency Exchange:
      • Near Gate D62 in the international, Hong Kong, and Macau departure area (2B-J1). Operating hours: 6:00 AM–12:00 AM.
      • Near Luggage Claim 30 in the international arrivals area (2E-J1). Operating hours: 6:00 AM–end of area flights.
    • Ctrip Currency Exchange: Near Gate 25 in the public departure area (2A-J3). Operating hours: 24/7.

Free Wi-Fi at the Airport

Travelers can connect to the free Wi-Fi at Shanghai Pudong International Airport using the following methods:

  • Mobile Number: Enter your phone number to receive a text message with a verification code for login.
  • Passport Login: Upload the photo page of your passport to log in without a mobile number.
  • WeChat Mini Program: Connect without requiring a mobile number.
  • Temporary Login Code Machines: Use self-service machines within the airport to get a temporary login code.
    • Locations of Login Code Machines
      • T1 Terminal
        • Domestic Departures: Near Gate 8.
        • International Departures: Near Gates 18 and 20, and the international departure information counter.
        • International Arrivals: Near Gate 19, the Customs Health Declaration counter, the Immigration Counter No. 1, and the international arrival information counter.
        • S1 Satellite Hall:
          • International Departures: Near Gates G118, G120, and G551.
          • International Arrivals: Near the transit fingerprint recognition area, Immigration, and Customs Health Declaration counters.
          • International to Domestic Transfers: Customs waiting area.
      • T2 Terminal
        • Domestic Departures: Near Gate C58.
        • International Departures: Next to the flight display screen near the security checkpoint exit, and near Gates D75, D71–D73, and D227–D232. Also available at the international departure information counter.
        • International Arrivals: Near Gates 71 and 77, Immigration Counter No. 1, and the international arrival information counter.
        • S2 Satellite Hall:
          • Domestic Arrivals: Near the domestic arrival elevator.
          • International Departures: Near Gate G169.

Note: Accessing sites like Google may require VPN support when using the airport’s Wi-Fi.

Can You Stay Overnight at the Airport?

Overnight stays are allowed at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, but there are no designated sleeping areas. Below are some recommended spots for rest:

T1 Terminal

  • Lounge H108: After passing through the security checkpoint of the satellite hall, take the elevator down, ride the airport train, and find Lounge H108, which offers sofas.
  • Gate 15: Located on the 3rd floor, near Gate 15. The seating is bench-style without armrests, making it suitable for lying down.

T2 Terminal

  • Gates C91–C98: On the 2nd floor after the security checkpoint, sofas are available.
  • 1st Floor After Security: Seats are bench-style and without armrests, making them comfortable for reclining.

Connecting from International Flights to Domestic Flights

When transferring from an international flight to a domestic flight at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, follow these steps to ensure a smooth transition:

  1. Immigration and Customs Clearance:
    • Proceed to the immigration checkpoint for passport verification.
    • Collect your checked luggage at the baggage claim and go through customs.
  2. Re-check Your Luggage: If your baggage is not checked through to your final destination, re-check it at the designated counters for your domestic airline.
  3. Security Check: Pass through the domestic flight security checkpoint.
  4. Proceed to the Domestic Boarding Gate: Follow signs to your terminal or gate. Be aware that transfers between terminals may require additional time.

Connecting from Domestic Flights to International Flights

For transfers from domestic flights to international flights, follow these steps:

  1. Baggage Transfer: If your airline provides through check-in service, your baggage will be transferred automatically. Otherwise, collect it at the baggage claim and re-check it at the international check-in counter.
  2. International Check-in and Immigration: Check in for your international flight at the designated counter, then proceed to the immigration checkpoint for passport control.
  3. Security Check: Complete the international flight security process.
  4. Proceed to the International Boarding Gate: Follow the signage to the appropriate gate for your flight. Remember to allow extra time for security and passport control.

Boarding Gate Opening and Closing Times

  • Domestic Flights: Boarding gates typically close 40–45 minutes before departure.
  • International Flights: Boarding gates usually close 60 minutes before departure.

FAQ

Do children need tickets for the subway and bus?

Children under 1.3 meters can ride the subway and bus for free when accompanied by an adult. Be sure to check for updates before your trip.

How do I get from Pudong Airport to Hangzhou or Suzhou?

You can either take a direct airport bus to these cities, which is ideal for families, or take the subway to Shanghai Railway Station and catch a high-speed train.

What options are available for late-night arrivals at Pudong Airport?

For late-night or early-morning arrivals, taxis and ride-hailing services operate 24/7, while some airport bus lines also offer night services.

Essential Shanghai Travel Resources