Hi! I’m Alex Chen, an avid traveler who thrives on solo adventures. I’ve journeyed through countless off-the-beaten-path spots around the world, always on a budget. My passion is uncovering the hidden gems of China and sharing tips on how to enjoy immersive travel experiences without breaking the bank. Join me as we explore one of Shanghai’s major transportation hubs, the Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station, through this comprehensive guide.

Summary

Overview of Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station

  • Address: No. 1500 Shengui Road, Xinhong Subdistrict, Minhang District, Shanghai (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Recommended Arrival Time: Arrive 1 hour before train departure
  • Chinese Name: 上海虹桥站
  • Pinyin: Shang Hai Hong Qiao Huo Che Zhan
  • Station Name on Train Ticket: Shanghai Hongqiao (上海虹桥)
  • Train Ticket Purchase: Click here to buy tickets
Hongqiao Railway Station exterior view

2 Best Ways to Reach Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station from Downtown

During the day, taking the subway is recommended as it directly connects to Hongqiao Railway Station, allowing you to stay indoors, unaffected by rain or hot weather. For those with a lot of luggage, a ride-hailing service is suggested for convenience, with drop-off at the north entrance of the station for easier access.

1. How to Take the Subway from Downtown Shanghai to Hongqiao Railway Station

  • Subway Lines: Line 2, Line 10, Line 17
  • Exit Station: Hongqiao Railway Station
  • Operating Hours: 06:00 – 22:30
  • Cost: 3-7 RMB
  • Travel Time: 40-60 minutes

2. How to Take a Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service from Downtown Shanghai to Hongqiao Railway Station

  • You can book a ride via Alipay or Didi.
  • Drop-off Point: North entrance of Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station
  • Cost: 60 RMB
  • Travel Time: 30-40 minutes

Ticket Buying Guide

How to Purchase Train Tickets

  • Online Ticketing:
    • Channels:
      • Official website/APP (China Railway Railway12306)
      • Third-party online booking platforms; as the official website may not be user-friendly, consider using our recommended booking platform, which offers prices identical to the official site.
    • Ticketing Site Name: Shanghai Hongqiao
    • Third-Party Online Booking: Click here to purchase tickets
  • Ticket Windows: Purchase with cash, Alipay, WeChat, or credit card.
Ticket counters at Hongqiao Railway Station
  • Ticket Machines: Purchase using Alipay or WeChat. Note that not all machines support non-mainland China passports; if unable to select “Passport” on a machine, try another.
Self-service ticket machines at Hongqiao Railway Station
  • Ticket Purchase Timing: Tickets for all trains in China can be purchased up to 15 days in advance, both online and onsite.
  • Train Operating Company: All trains in China are operated directly by the government, with no private companies involved.

Choosing the Right Ticket

Train Types:

  • High-Speed Trains: Known for their efficiency and speed, capable of reaching speeds up to 350 km/h, covering most major cities in China. Offers a superior experience but at a higher price. Ideal for first-time train travelers.
  • Regular Trains: Slower and more economical, suitable for travelers not in a rush to reach their destination. Some regular trains offer sleeper cars, ideal for budget travelers on long journeys.
High-speed and regular trains in China

Seat Classes:

  • High-Speed Train:
    • Second-Class: The most commonly chosen seat type.
    • First-Class: More spacious and comfortable, at a higher price.
    • Business-Class: The most luxurious class on high-speed trains, offering services akin to business-class on planes, including free snacks, meals on some routes, priority boarding, and access to exclusive lounges. Seats can fully recline.
Second-class, First-class, and Business-class seats on high-speed trains

Regular Train:

  • Hard Seat: Most commonly chosen for short trips.
  • Soft Seat: More comfortable than hard seats, at a higher price. Features softer, more spacious seating suitable for mid-distance travel.
  • Hard Sleeper: Divided into upper, middle, and lower berths, suitable for long-distance or overnight travel.
  • Soft Sleeper: More comfortable and spacious than hard sleepers, typically with only four berths per compartment, offering better privacy and security. Ideal for long-distance or overnight travel.
  • Standing Ticket: The cheapest option, but without a fixed seat, requiring standing throughout the journey. Not recommended unless no other tickets are available.
Hard Seat, Soft Seat, Hard Sleeper, and Soft Sleeper on regular trains

Ticket Changes and Refunds

  • Change Policy:
    • Conditions for Changes:
      • Most train tickets allow for changes.
      • Each ticket can only be changed once.
    • Change Fees:
      • More than 48 hours before departure: Free changes.
      • 24-48 hours before departure: 5% of the ticket price as a fee.
      • Less than 24 hours before departure: 15% of the ticket price as a fee.
      • After departure: 40% of the ticket price as a fee.
    • How to Change:
      • Online: Log into the purchasing channel, select the “Change” option, and follow the prompts.
      • In-Person: Bring the ID used during booking and the ticket to the train station ticket window.
  • Refund Policy:
    • Conditions for Refunds:
      • Most trains allow refunds.
    • Refund Fees:
      • More than 8 days before departure: Free refund.
      • 48 hours to 8 days before departure: 5% of the ticket price as a fee.
      • 24-48 hours before departure: 10% of the ticket price as a fee.
      • Less than 24 hours before departure: 20% of the ticket price as a fee.
      • After departure: No refunds.
    • How to Refund:
      • Online: Log into the purchasing channel, select the “Refund” option, and follow the prompts.
      • In-Person: Bring the ID used during booking and the ticket to the train station ticket window.

Riding Guide

  • Pre-boarding Preparation:
    • Identification: Bring your passport and any other IDs you used during booking.
    • Need for Printed Tickets: Not necessary, but you can print them for keepsake purposes.
    • When to Arrive at the Station: It’s recommended to arrive at the station 1 hour before your train departs.
    • Train Punctuality: Trains in China are highly punctual, rarely departing early or late, so please do not be late.
  • Security Check:
    • Process: All luggage must undergo security screening.
    • Common Luggage Rules:
      • Knives are not allowed.
      • Containers holding more than 150ml of hair dye, hairspray, or insecticide are not permitted.
      • Baby strollers are allowed.
  • Boarding Steps:
    • Review your ticket records to confirm train number, car, and seat.
    • Check the large screens for train information to locate the ticket gate.
    • Wait for ticketing: Pay attention to announcements.
      • Ticket Gate Opening: 10-15 minutes before train departure.
      • Double-check if the train number matches your ticket before entering to avoid boarding the wrong train.
    • Start ticketing: Scan your ID to enter the waiting platform.
    • Board the train: Proceed to the platform, locate your car number outside the train, and find your seat inside.
      • If it’s close to departure time, you may also enter the nearest car as all cars are interconnected.
Train station display and check-in area

Travel Tips

  • Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station is vast, with numerous ticket gates. Even after passing security, it can take 10-20 minutes to reach your gate, so be sure to arrive at the station 1 hour early.
  • If buying tickets on-site, verify the train departure times and availability in advance and arrive at the station 1.5 hours before your train departs.
  • Peak Hours: Travel to the station can take longer during morning and evening rush hours (7:00-9:00 AM, 5:00-7:00 PM).

4 Best Ways to Travel from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station to Shanghai Pudong International Airport

For quick travel to Shanghai Pudong International Airport, the regional airport line is recommended. If you are not in a hurry, the subway is the best option. For nighttime travel, taking the airport bus is advisable.

1. Regional Airport Line

  • Drop-off Location: Terminals 1 and 2 at Pudong
  • Operating Hours: 06:00 – 22:00
  • Cost: 26 RMB
  • Travel Time: 55 minutes

2. Subway

3. Airport Bus

  • Route: Airport Line 1
  • Drop-off Location: T1 departure at Pudong International Airport
  • Operating Hours: 24 hours
  • Cost: 36 RMB
  • Travel Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

4. Taxi/Ride-Hailing Service

  • Drop-off Location: Domestic/International arrivals at Pudong Airport
  • Cost: 200 RMB
  • Travel Time: 60 minutes

Best Way to Travel from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport

Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station is very close to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport. Taking the subway is the most convenient and best choice, with just one stop.

It’s recommended to stay around Nanjing West Road. From this area, getting to different parts of the city is very convenient, including the Bund, Yu Garden, Jing’an Temple, People’s Square, Tianzifang, and the former site of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea. Nanjing West Road Metro Station is served by Line 2, which provides direct access to most popular attractions and all major transportation hubs. The surrounding area also offers a wide range of restaurants and dining options. More detailed hotel recommendations can be found at <Shanghai Hotel Recommendations>.

CitiGO Hotel Jing’an Shanghai

CitiGO Hotel Jing'an Shanghai

Very convenient, close to Nanjing West Road shopping district, easily accessible to other attractions. Be aware, there is another hotel with the same name nearby; double-check the address when taking a taxi.

Clean and well-equipped. Breakfast offers a wide variety, including fresh vegetables, fruits, delicious mousse, Swiss rolls, and freshly ground coffee. Free night snacks including dumplings available after 10 PM.

Ji Hotel (Shanghai People’s Square Nanjing Road)

Ji Hotel (Shanghai People's Square Nanjing Road)
  • Location: 9-minute walk from Huangpi South Road Metro Station, 10-minute walk from Nanjing West Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 487 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Laundry, robot room service, triple rooms

Located near People’s Square inside an old building, quiet, with easy access to transportation. Close to the Old Shanghai Museum, City God Temple, and local parks. Great value for money.

Excellent facilities, friendly and attentive staff. Rooms are clean, odor-free, and quiet. Varied breakfast options.

Taikoo Hui Atour X Hotel, Nanjing West Road, Shanghai

Taikoo Hui Atour X Hotel, Nanjing West Road, Shanghai

Prime location near Shanghai’s central business district, just below Wujiang Road, convenient for dining and close to a subway entrance.

Well-equipped, clean, and quiet. Features soft-bristled toothbrushes, excellent Wi-Fi, and high-pressure showers in the bathrooms with upscale fixtures.

Guide Inside Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station

Ticket Windows

  • Location: 2F departure level, ticketing area
  • Services Available: Ticket sales, changes, and refunds
  • Operating Hours: 24 hours
  • Payment Methods Supported: Cash, Alipay, WeChat, Credit Cards
  • Required ID: Passport or other identification documents

Luggage Storage Locations

  • Locations:
    • Manual Luggage Storage (Non-official): B1 level, expensive and price varies with the owner’s mood, not recommended.
    • Luggage Lockers: Available after security check in the waiting hall and departure level.
  • Operating Hours: 24 hours
  • Locker Prices:
    • Small Locker: Suitable for backpacks, shopping bags, 4 RMB/hour
    • Medium Locker: Fits larger backpacks, 18-inch suitcases, 5 RMB/hour
    • Large Locker: Can accommodate 28-inch suitcases, 6 RMB/hour, capped at 60 RMB/day
  • Maximum Storage Duration: No more than 5 days

How to plan your Shanghai trip

Most first-timers spend 2–3 days in Shanghai for the highlights. Add a 3rd day for Shanghai Disneyland or a nearby water town. If you want the classic Jiangnan loop, plan 4–5 days to include Suzhou and Hangzhou. Here are our most popular private tour options:

FAQ

Can I stay overnight at Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station?

It’s possible to stay overnight, but it’s not recommended. Although shops are open at night, it’s better to find an affordable hotel nearby since the station is located within the city.

Does Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station offer free Wi-Fi?

No, there is no free Wi-Fi available.

What should I do if I lose something at Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station?

You can register lost items at the lost and found office; station staff can provide the exact location for registration.

What languages do the staff at Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station speak?

The staff primarily speak Mandarin. Given that Shanghai is an international city, some staff members might also speak basic English, especially at information desks and major service points. The station is equipped with English signs and offers English services in critical areas.

Can I board a train earlier than the one I have booked?

No, you can only board the train specified on your ticket. Ticket checks are strict, and boarding with the incorrect ticket is not permitted.

Essential Shanghai Travel Resources