Shanghai

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Comprehensive Guide to Airports in Shanghai, China

Shanghai, one of the largest and most dynamic cities in China, is served by two major international airports: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA). Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate these airports, including transportation options, facilities, costs, procedures, and local tips.

1. Overview of Shanghai’s Airports

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

  • Location: Approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) east of downtown Shanghai, in the Pudong New Area.
  • Primary Role: Major international gateway for long-haul flights and a hub for international airlines.
  • Terminals: Two main terminals (T1 and T2), with a satellite terminal (S1 and S2) connected to the main terminals.

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)

  • Location: About 13 kilometers (8 miles) west of downtown Shanghai, in the Hongqiao area.
  • Primary Role: Primarily serves domestic flights and some short-haul international flights (e.g., to Japan, South Korea).
  • Terminals: Two terminals (T1 and T2), with T2 being the newer and larger terminal.

2. Transportation Options to and from the Airports

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

a. Metro

  • Line: Metro Line 2 connects PVG to downtown Shanghai.
  • Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour to reach central areas like People’s Square.
  • Cost: ¥7 (CNY) one way.
  • Tips: If you have large luggage, avoid peak hours (7:30–9:30 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM).

b. Maglev Train

  • Description: High-speed magnetic levitation train.
  • Route: PVG to Longyang Road Station (connects to Metro Line 2).
  • Travel Time: 8 minutes.
  • Cost: ¥50 one way, ¥80 round trip (discounts available for same-day tickets).
  • Tips: A great option for speed and novelty, but you’ll need to transfer to the metro or taxi to reach your final destination.

c. Airport Shuttle Buses

  • Routes: Multiple routes connect PVG to key areas like Jing’an Temple, People’s Square, and Hongqiao Airport.
  • Travel Time: 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic.
  • Cost: ¥15–¥30.
  • Tips: Check the schedule and route map at the airport to find the most convenient bus.

d. Taxis

  • Travel Time: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on traffic.
  • Cost: ¥150–¥200 to downtown Shanghai.
  • Tips: Use official taxi stands and avoid unlicensed drivers. Have your destination written in Chinese to show the driver.

e. Ride-Hailing Apps

  • Options: Didi (China’s version of Uber) is widely used.
  • Cost: Similar to taxis but may vary based on demand.
  • Tips: Download the app in advance and set up payment options (Alipay, WeChat Pay, or international credit cards).

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)

a. Metro

  • Line: Metro Line 2 and Line 10 connect SHA to downtown Shanghai.
  • Travel Time: 30–40 minutes to central areas.
  • Cost: ¥5–¥7 one way.
  • Tips: Terminal 2 is directly connected to the metro station.

b. Airport Shuttle Buses

  • Routes: Fewer options compared to PVG, but buses connect to key areas like Jing’an Temple.
  • Travel Time: 40 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Cost: ¥10–¥20.
  • Tips: Check schedules in advance, as buses may not run late at night.

c. Taxis

  • Travel Time: 30–50 minutes to downtown Shanghai.
  • Cost: ¥50–¥100 depending on traffic and destination.
  • Tips: Similar to PVG, use official taxi stands and have your destination written in Chinese.

d. High-Speed Rail

  • Description: Hongqiao Airport is integrated with the Hongqiao Railway Station, a major hub for high-speed trains to other cities in China.
  • Tips: Ideal for travelers connecting to other cities like Hangzhou, Suzhou, or Nanjing.

3. Facilities Available at the Airports

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi available; requires phone number registration.
  • Lounges: Multiple lounges, including airline-specific and pay-per-use lounges (e.g., Plaza Premium Lounge, ¥300–¥400 for access).
  • Dining: Wide range of Chinese and international restaurants, fast food, and cafes.
  • Shopping: Duty-free shops, luxury brands, and local specialty stores.
  • Currency Exchange: Available in both terminals, but rates may not be favorable.
  • Other Services: Luggage storage, showers, children’s play areas, and medical clinics.

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)

  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi with phone number registration.
  • Lounges: Airline lounges and pay-per-use lounges available.
  • Dining: Smaller selection compared to PVG, but includes Chinese and international options.
  • Shopping: Limited duty-free and retail stores.
  • Other Services: Luggage storage, business centers, and medical services.

4. Procedures for Arrivals and Departures

Arrivals

  1. Immigration:
    • Follow signs to immigration counters.
    • Have your passport, visa (if required), and arrival card ready.
    • Expect longer queues at PVG due to higher international traffic.
  2. Baggage Claim:
    • Check the monitors for your baggage carousel.
    • Free luggage carts are available.
  3. Customs:
    • Declare items if necessary (e.g., large amounts of cash, restricted goods).
    • Use the green channel if you have nothing to declare.
  4. Transportation:
    • Follow signs to taxis, metro, or shuttle buses.

Departures

  1. Check-In:
    • Arrive 2–3 hours before international flights and 1.5–2 hours before domestic flights.
    • Use self-check-in kiosks if available to save time.
  2. Security Check:
    • Liquids over 100ml are not allowed in carry-on luggage.
    • Electronics may need to be removed for screening.
  3. Immigration:
    • Present your passport, visa, and departure card.
  4. Boarding:
    • Check your gate number and boarding time on the monitors.
    • Be aware that gates may change, so monitor announcements.

5. Local Considerations and Tips

  • Language: Most signs are in both Chinese and English, but staff may have limited English proficiency. Use translation apps or have key phrases written in Chinese.
  • Peak Travel Times: Avoid traveling during Chinese holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year, Golden Week) when airports are extremely crowded.
  • Payment Methods: Cash is accepted, but mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are more common. International credit cards may not be widely accepted.
  • Luggage Storage: Available at both airports for ¥30–¥80 per piece per day, depending on size.
  • Health and Safety: Temperature checks and health QR codes may still be required for domestic travelers. Check the latest COVID-19 regulations before traveling.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Shanghai’s airports efficiently and enjoy a smooth travel experience. Safe travels!