🏙️ Overview of Shanghai Metro System
The Shanghai Metro is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel around the city. It keeps expanding every year, making it easier to reach more areas.
As of 2025:
- There are 20 lines in operation, covering almost every district in Shanghai.
- The network spans over 830 kilometers, making it one of the largest metro systems in the world.
- Line 2 connects both Pudong Airport and Hongqiao Airport, while Line 10 links major spots like Yuyuan Garden and Xintiandi.
- The Maglev Train, connected to the metro, offers a fast trip between Pudong Airport and the city center.
- More lines and extensions are under construction to improve travel across the city.
With clear English and Chinese signs, frequent trains, and low fares, the Shanghai Metro is one of the best ways to explore the city whether you are sightseeing, shopping, or going back to your hotel.
🚇 Shanghai Metro Lines
The Shanghai Metro is one of the easiest and fastest ways to travel around the city. As of 2025, there are 20 lines in service, covering nearly every major area from Pudong Airport in the east to Jiading and Qingpu in the west. The network now stretches over 830 kilometers, making it one of the largest metro systems in the world. More lines are being built to make travel across the city even smoother.
| Line | Main Route / Terminals | Hours | Key Stations or Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Line 1 (Red Line) | Fujin Road ⇄ Xinzhuang | ~05:30 to 23:00 | The oldest line, passing through major spots such as People’s Square and Shanghai Railway Station. |
Line 2 (Green Line) | Pudong International Airport ⇄ East Xujing | ~05:30 to 23:00 | Connects both airports, passing through Lujiazui, Nanjing Road, and Jing’an Temple. |
Line 3 (Yellow Line) | North Jiangyang Road ⇄ Shanghai South Railway Station | ~05:30 to 23:00 | Runs mostly above ground, offering scenic views of the city. |
Line 4 (Purple Loop Line) | Circular line around central Shanghai | ~05:30 to 23:00 | Loops around downtown, convenient for transfers to other lines. |
Line 5 (Light Purple Line) | Xinzhuang ⇄ Fengxian Xincheng | ~05:30 to 23:00 | Connects Minhang and Fengxian districts, useful for suburban travel. |
Line 6 (Pink Line) | Gangcheng Road ⇄ Oriental Sports Center | ~05:30 to 23:00 | Runs mainly through Pudong, serving residential and business zones. |
Line 7 (Orange Line) | Meilan Lake ⇄ Huamu Road | ~05:30 to 23:00 | Covers key areas including Jing’an Temple and Shanghai Expo Park. |
Line 8 (Blue Line) | Shiguang Road ⇄ Shendu Highway | ~05:30 to 23:00 | Connects north and south parts of the city, passing through People’s Square. |
Line 9 (Light Blue Line) | Songjiang South Railway Station ⇄ Caolu | ~05:30 to 23:00 | Links Songjiang University Town to central areas and Pudong. |
Line 10 (Lavender Line) | Hongqiao Railway Station ⇄ Xinjiangwancheng | ~05:30 to 23:00 | Convenient for travelers, passes Yuyuan Garden, Xintiandi, and Nanjing East Road. |
Line 11 (Brown Line) | Huaqiao ⇄ Disney Resort | ~05:30 to 23:00 | Connects the city center to Shanghai Disney Resort. |
Line 12 (Light Green Line) | Qixin Road ⇄ Jinhai Road | ~05:30 to 23:00 | Serves both Puxi and Pudong with easy connections to major lines. |
Line 13 (Pink Line) | Jinyun Road ⇄ Zhangjiang Road | ~05:30 to 23:00 | Passes through popular areas like Nanjing West Road and Huaihai Road. |
Line 14 (Dark Blue Line) | Fengbang ⇄ Pudong Airport | ~05:30 to 23:00 | A newer line providing fast travel between western and eastern Shanghai. |
Line 15 (Brown Line) | Gucun Park ⇄ Zizhu Hi-Tech Park | ~05:30 to 23:00 | Connects residential areas with industrial and tech zones. |
Line 16 (Light Green Line) | Longyang Road ⇄ Dishui Lake | ~05:30 to 22:30 | Great for weekend trips to the seaside in Lingang. |
Line 17 (Violet Line) | Hongqiao Railway Station ⇄ Oriental Land | ~05:30 to 22:30 | Links central Shanghai to Qingpu District, ideal for visiting Zhujiajiao Water Town. |
Line 18 (Cyan Line) | Hangtou ⇄ Changjiang South Road | ~05:30 to 23:00 | Covers Pudong’s southern area, improving access for local residents. |
Line 19 (Under Construction) | — | — | Will connect northern and southern districts when completed. |
Line 20 (Planned) | — | — | Future line expected to open in the coming years to expand city coverage. |
🚆 Popular Metro Lines and Attractions You Can Reach in Shanghai
One of the best things about the Shanghai Metro is how easily it connects you to the city’s main attractions. Whether you want to visit famous landmarks, shop in modern malls, or relax by the river, the metro makes travel simple and affordable. Here are some popular places you can reach directly by metro:
| Attraction | Metro Line | Nearest Station | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
The Bund | Line 2 / Line 10 | East Nanjing Road Station | Famous waterfront with views of Pudong’s skyline. Perfect for evening walks and photos. |
Oriental Pearl Tower | Line 2 | Lujiazui Station | One of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks with an observation deck, museum, and stunning city views. |
Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden) | Line 10 | Yuyuan Garden Station | A beautiful traditional garden surrounded by shops and food stalls in the Old City area. |
Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street | Line 1 / Line 2 / Line 8 | People’s Square Station | A lively shopping street filled with international brands, restaurants, and bright lights at night. |
Shanghai Disney Resort | Line 11 | Disney Resort Station | A world-class theme park that’s perfect for families and Disney fans. |
Tianzifang | Line 9 | Dapuqiao Station | Narrow lanes filled with cafes, art shops, and unique souvenirs. Great for a relaxed afternoon. |
Jing’an Temple | Line 2 / Line 7 | Jing’an Temple Station | A historic temple in the heart of the city, surrounded by malls and restaurants. |
Shanghai Museum & People’s Park | Line 1 / Line 2 / Line 8 | People’s Square Station | Visit the national museum and enjoy the nearby green space in the city center. |
Shanghai Tower & Shanghai World Financial Center | Line 2 | Lujiazui Station | Iconic skyscrapers with observation decks offering panoramic city views. |
Pudong International Airport | Line 2 / Maglev | Pudong Airport Station | The fastest and most convenient way to reach the airport from downtown. |
🚇 Shanghai Metro Fares & Tickets
💰 How Much Is the Fare?
The Shanghai Metro uses a distance-based fare system, so your ticket price depends on how far you travel.
- First 0–6 km: ¥3 (around ₱24)
- 6–16 km: add ¥1 (₱8) every 10 km
- 16–30 km: add ¥1 every 14 km
- Beyond 30 km: add ¥1 every 20 km
The cheapest ride starts at ¥3 (~₱24), and the longest routes can cost up to ¥10 (~₱80).
You must complete your trip within 4 hours after entering the metro gates.
🎫 Ticket & Card Options
| Ticket Type | How It Works | Price | When to Use |
|---|---|---|---|
Single-Journey Ticket | Buy from vending machines. Choose your destination, pay, and get a paper card. Tap to enter and insert to exit. | ¥3–¥10 (~₱24–₱80) | Best for one-time or short trips. |
Shanghai Public Transportation Card | A reloadable tap card used on the metro, buses, ferries, and taxis. You can top up at stations or convenience stores. | ¥20 deposit + stored value | Perfect for daily use or longer stays. Offers small discounts and faster entry. |
1-Day Pass | Unlimited metro rides for 24 hours from the first tap. | ¥18 (~₱144) | Great for tourists exploring several attractions in one day. |
3-Day Pass | Unlimited metro rides for 72 hours. | ¥45 (~₱360) | Ideal for travelers staying a few days and riding often. |
Maglev & Metro Pass | Combines one Maglev ride with unlimited metro access for 24 hours. | ¥55 (~₱440) | Best if you are arriving or departing through Pudong Airport. |
Grab Flight Discounts to Shanghai
🚆 Getting Around Shanghai Made Easy
For Filipino travelers visiting Shanghai, the metro is one of the simplest and most convenient ways to explore the city. With a Shanghai Public Transportation Card or a day pass, you can skip the ticket lines and travel smoothly between attractions. It saves both time and effort, especially if you plan to visit several places in one day.
The metro connects you to top spots like The Bund for skyline views, Nanjing Road for shopping, Yu Garden for traditional charm, and Lujiazui for modern skyscrapers. Every station has clear English signs and announcements, making it easy to navigate even for first-time visitors.
Trains are clean, safe, and always on time, helping you avoid traffic and move comfortably around the city. Whether you are sightseeing, shopping, or on a business trip, the Shanghai Metro keeps your travel experience smooth and enjoyable.
❓ FAQs: Shanghai Metro Map
What time does the Shanghai Metro open and close?
Most lines start around 5:30 AM and close around 11:00 PM, but exact hours may vary by station. Always check the schedule before your trip, especially for early or late rides.How do I pay for the metro?
You can buy single-journey tickets from machines or use a Shanghai Public Transportation Card. Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also accepted at most stations.Can I use one card for buses and metro?
Yes. The Shanghai Public Transportation Card works on the metro, buses, ferries, and even taxis.Is the metro safe for tourists?
Yes. The Shanghai Metro is clean, well-maintained, and safe even at night. Security checks are done at all entrances.What should I do if I lose something on the train?
You can report lost items at the Customer Service Center of any metro station. They can help track your item or direct you to the nearest lost and found office.