Shanghai Maglev Train: Tickets, Route and Travel Guide

The Shanghai Maglev Train is the fastest way between Shanghai downtown and Pudong Airport (PVG). It reaches 380 km/h, takes about 7 minutes, and costs around CNY 50 one-way. It runs from 6:45 AM to 9:52 PM, and tickets can be bought at the station counter or ticket machine.

What Is the Shanghai Maglev Train? Facts & Speed

The Shanghai Maglev Train is a high-speed airport train that connects Longyang Road Station with Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). For Filipino travelers, it is a good choice if you want to avoid traffic and reach the airport faster. The train uses magnetic levitation, which means it floats slightly above the track instead of using normal wheels.

Fast Facts:

• Route: Longyang Road Station to Pudong Airport
• Distance: Around 30 km
• Travel time: Around 7 to 8 minutes
• Speed: Usually around 300 km/h, but designed to reach up to 430 km/h
• Best for: Airport transfers, avoiding traffic, and trying a unique Shanghai experience

The ride feels smooth and quiet because the train does not touch the track. From Longyang Road Station, you can also transfer to the Shanghai Metro to continue to other parts of the city.

Shanghai Maglev Train: Route, Stations & Operating Hours

The Shanghai Maglev Train runs directly between Longyang Road Station and Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), with no stops in between. For Filipino travelers, this is one of the easiest ways to avoid Shanghai traffic, especially when going to the airport with luggage. The ride takes around 7 to 8 minutes, and the regular one-way ticket costs CNY 50. The official airport guide lists the current top speed at 300 km/h.

Route & Stations

• Longyang Road Station: It connects with Shanghai Metro Lines 2, 7, 16, and 18, so you can transfer from many city areas.
• Pudong Airport Station: Located near PVG Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. After getting off, just follow the airport signs to the check-in area.
• Travel time: Around 7 to 8 minutes between Longyang Road and PVG.

Extra tip: You need to pass a quick luggage security check before entering the platform, so add a few extra minutes.

Operating Hours

The schedule can change during holidays or busy travel periods, so it is better to check the latest timing before your trip. The official airport guide lists 6:45 AM to 9:40 PM for Longyang Road to PVG, and 7:02 AM to 9:42 PM for PVG to Longyang Road.

Shanghai Maglev Train: Ticket Prices & Discounts

The Shanghai Maglev Train has a simple fare system, which is easy to plan for if you are traveling from Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) to the city. A standard one-way ticket costs CNY 50, while a round-trip ticket costs CNY 80 and is valid within 7 days.

Discounts & Tips:

• Child policy: Children under 1.3 meters can usually ride for free with an adult.
• Metro combo pass: The CNY 55 Maglev + Metro pass is useful if you plan to take the metro after arriving at Longyang Road Station.
• VIP ticket: VIP is more expensive, but since the ride is only around 7 to 8 minutes, standard class is enough for most Filipino travelers.

How to Buy Shanghai Maglev Train Tickets

You can buy Shanghai Maglev Train tickets at the station or online. For Filipino travelers, buying at the station is often easier if you want to use the same-day flight ticket discount.

Option 1: Buy at the Station

• Go to the ticket counter or self-service machine at Longyang Road Station or Pudong Airport Station.
• Choose one-way or round-trip ticket.
• Pay by cash, Alipay, WeChat Pay, UnionPay, or bank card. Shanghai also started allowing foreign bank cards for Maglev ticket payment in 2025.
• Keep your physical ticket or card safe because you need it to enter and exit the gate.

Option 2: Buy Online

You can also book through travel platforms like Trip.com. After booking, you may receive a QR code or pickup number, then collect your physical ticket at the station before boarding.

Important Tips

• Show your same-day flight ticket or boarding pass at the counter to get the discounted fare, usually CNY 40 instead of CNY 50.
• Online tickets may not always include the flight discount, so buy at the counter if you want to claim it.
• Add a few extra minutes for ticket pickup and luggage security check.
• Keep your passport handy, especially when booking through third-party platforms.

How to Ride the Shanghai Maglev Train

Riding the Shanghai Maglev Train is simple, even for first-time Filipino travelers. The train only runs between Longyang Road Station and Pudong Airport (PVG), and the full ride takes around 7 to 8 minutes. Official airport info lists the top speed at 300 km/h.

Step 1: Find the Maglev Station

From Pudong Airport (PVG), follow the “Maglev Train” signs between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. From the city, go to Longyang Road Station, which connects with Metro Lines 2, 7, 16, and 18.

Step 2: Pass the Security Check

Put your bags through the X-ray machine before entering the platform. Keep your ticket ready.

Step 3: Enter the Gate

Tap or insert your ticket at the gate. Do not lose it because you may need it again when exiting.

Step 4: Board the Train

There are no assigned seats in standard class, so choose any available seat. If you have big luggage, place it on the luggage rack or near your seat.

Step 5: Enjoy the Ride

The journey takes around 7 to 8 minutes. You can check the speed display inside the train to see how fast it is going.

Step 6: Exit and Continue Your Trip

At Longyang Road, transfer to the Metro or take a taxi. At PVG, follow the signs to Terminal 1 or Terminal 2.

Tips for Riding the Shanghai Maglev Train

• Buy at the counter for the flight discount: Show your same-day flight ticket or boarding pass to get the one-way fare for CNY 40 instead of CNY 50.
• Keep your ticket safe: You may need the physical ticket or card when entering and exiting the station. Do not throw it away too early.
• Prepare for security check: All bags need to pass through X-ray screening before boarding. Add a few extra minutes, especially if you have luggage.
• Check the speed display: The train can run at different speeds depending on the schedule. The full trip usually takes around 7 to 8 minutes.
• Use the Metro after Longyang Road: Longyang Road connects with Shanghai Metro, so you can continue to areas like People’s Square, The Bund, or Jing’an by metro.
• Set up payment before arrival: Alipay or WeChat Pay is useful in Shanghai, but keep some cash or a bank card ready in case the machine does not accept your payment method.
• Check the last train time: The last train is usually around 9:30 PM to 9:50 PM, depending on direction and source, so late-night arrivals may need a taxi or airport bus instead.