Shanghai, as one of China’s largest and most modern cities, boasts an extensive metro system serving millions of passengers daily. With over 20 operational lines, the Shanghai Metro connects the city’s commercial hubs, residential districts, airports, and suburban areas.
This guide provides an overview of main lines, coverage areas, fare information, and detailed instructions for first-time riders.
Main Lines and Coverage
Below is a summary of key Shanghai Metro lines, their routes, major stations, termini, fares, and covered districts:
| Line | Color | Direction | Major Stations | Termini | One-Way Fare (Approx.) | Coverage Districts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Line 1 | Red | North–South | Fujin Road, People’s Square, Xujiahui, Xinzhuang | Fujin Road – Xinzhuang | ¥3–9 | Huangpu, Xuhui, Minhang |
| Line 2 | Green | East–West | East Xujing, Lujiazui, People’s Square, Hongqiao Airport, Pudong Airport | East Xujing – Pudong Airport | ¥3–9 | Changning, Pudong, Huangpu |
| Line 3 | Yellow | North–South | North Jiangyang Road, Shanghai South Railway Station | North Jiangyang Road – Shanghai South Railway Station | ¥3–8 | Baoshan, Xuhui |
| Line 4 | Purple | Loop | Inner Ring Road, People’s Square, Century Avenue | Circular Loop | ¥3–8 | Central Urban Districts |
| Line 7 | Pink | East–West | Meilan Lake, Huamu Road | Meilan Lake – Huamu Road | ¥3–9 | Pudong, Yangpu |
| Line 9 | Light Blue | East–West | Songjiang South Railway Station, Middle Yanggao Road | Songjiang South Railway Station – Middle Yanggao Road | ¥3–9 | Songjiang, Pudong |
| Line 10 | Turquoise | Southwest–Northeast | Hongqiao Railway Station, East Nanjing Road | Hongqiao Railway Station – Xinjiangwancheng | ¥3–9 | Changning, Huangpu |
| Line 11 | Dark Blue | North–South | North Jiading, Disney Resort | North Jiading – Disney Resort | ¥3–9 | Jiading, Pudong |
| Line 12 | Brown | East–West | Qufu Road, Jinhai Road | Qufu Road – Jinhai Road | ¥3–9 | Jing’an, Pudong |
| Line 13 | Light Green | East–West | Jinyun Road, Zhangjiang Road | Jinyun Road – Zhangjiang Road | ¥3–9 | Minhang, Pudong |
| Line 16 | Orange | South–North | Dishui Lake, Longyang Road | Dishui Lake – Longyang Road | ¥3–9 | Pudong |
| Maglev | Silver | Airport Express | Longyang Road, Pudong Airport | Longyang Road – Pudong Airport | ¥50 (fixed) | Pudong |
Note: Shanghai Metro fare is distance-based starting at ¥3, increasing gradually up to ¥9 for longest rides. Maglev train has a fixed fare of ¥50.
How to Ride the Shanghai Metro
For first-time users, the process is similar to other major metro systems:
1. Find the Station Entrance
Look for the prominent metro logo (red “M”) and identify the entrance with lettered gates (A, B, C, etc.).
2. Buy Tickets or Use Smart Cards
- Use ticket vending machines to select destination and pay by cash or card.
- Alternatively, use Shanghai Public Transportation Card (“Shanghai Jiaotong Card”) or mobile payment apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay to scan QR codes at the gate.
3. Security Check and Enter
All passengers pass through security scanners before entering. Then scan your ticket or card at the turnstile to enter.
4. Locate Your Train
Follow color-coded signs to your desired line and direction. Larger interchange stations may require additional walking time.
5. Transfer Between Lines
Most interchange stations have clear indoor connections without leaving the fare-paid zone. Some large stations may involve longer walks.
6. Exit the Station
Upon arrival, follow exit signs and scan your card or ticket at the gate to leave.
Travel Tips
- Shanghai Metro operates generally from 5:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Check specific times by line.
- Use official apps or navigation tools like Baidu Maps or Gaode Maps for real-time route planning.
- Peak hours are usually 7:30–9:00 a.m. and 5:30–7:30 p.m. Avoid if possible for a more comfortable ride.
Conclusion
The Shanghai Metro provides efficient, affordable, and extensive coverage across one of China’s most vibrant cities. Whether traveling to tourist attractions like the Bund and Yu Garden or commuting to business districts like Lujiazui, the metro system is the best way to get around.
If you want more detailed route planning or information on nearby attractions, feel free to ask.
