How to Reach Shanghai

HOW TO GET TO SHANGHAI 

  • By Air: There are two international airports in Shanghai: Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport. From there you have shuttle services, fast trains, and taxis to get you into the city. In addition to this, both the airports also offer direct buses to the major cities of Hangzhou, Suzhou and Nanjing.
  • By Train: Shanghai is well connected by train and some of the important railway stations include Shanghai Railway Station, Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station, Shanghai South Railway Station, and Shanghai West Railway Station.
  • By Bus: There are several long-distance bus stations in Shanghai that connect you with various regions nearby. Book the tickets as early as possible because there is a huge demand.
  • By Ferry: Weekly ferry services from Kobe, Osaka, and Hong Kong to Shanghai are available. The approximate travel time taken is 2 nights.

HOW TO GET AROUND SHANGHAI

  • By Walk: Walking is fine for seeing attractions, but given the scale of the city it's not recommended for moving between locations. Watch out for motorcyclists who often use the pavements as extra road space.
  • By Train: Shanghai is a major transport hub and you can reach all of China from its railway stations, though it's worth noting that queues can be formidable particularly during holidays. Check out the Maglev system which connects the city with the Shanghai Pudong Airport.
  • By Metro: Shanghai is well served by a massive underground network and this is often the easiest method to navigate the city, though at peak periods it can be overwhelmingly crowded particularly for the claustrophobic traveller.
  • By Bus: Though there is an excellent bus network in the city, you will need to be able to speak and read Mandarin to take real advantage of it. Outside the terminals you'll find little or no English directions or comprehension from the drivers.
  • By Taxi: As with all Chinese cities, taxis are everywhere, and reasonably priced. Make sure you have directions written down in Mandarin for ease of use.