Shanghai Transportation Guide: The Essential Tips for Navigating the City with Ease

Rita

As China's economic and financial center, as well as an important city for globalization, Shanghai's well-developed transportation network has always been one of the highlights attracting international tourists and business people. As Shanghai continues to improve its intelligent and informatized city management, the transportation system has gradually been integrated into digital management, with convenient public transportation, accurate navigation services and convenient payment means becoming key to the city's operation.

Main modes of traveling in Shanghai

1. Metro

Shanghai has a well-developed metro network, which is the first choice for tourists and locals to travel on a daily basis. It covers the whole downtown and suburbs, and basically reaches all popular attractions and commercial areas. It is fast, punctual and convenient, avoiding traffic jams in the downtown area. The fare usually ranges from RMB 3-9 depending on the distance traveled.

2. Buses

Shanghai has a very dense bus network, suitable for reaching some areas not covered by the metro, and the types include ordinary buses, express buses and air-conditioned buses. The fares are cheap and the coverage is extensive. Buses in Shanghai can usually be paid for with a Shanghai Transportation Card or Mobile Payment.

3. Taxi

Cabs are very common in Shanghai and are convenient and flexible. They are green or yellow in color and can be picked up at the curb at any time.

4. DiDi

DiDi is the most popular taxi app in China, which allows you to book a cab or car service through the mobile app. Convenient and flexible, you can choose to carpool or special car to avoid queuing. The price will fluctuate during peak hours.

5. Bicycle/bike sharing

There are many bike-sharing brands in Shanghai, such as ofo and Mobay, offering the convenience of short-distance travel.Economical and environmentally friendly, they are perfect for short trips around the city. Before using, make sure the mobile app has bound the payment method and pay attention to traffic rules when riding.

“Shanghai Maas” App

The “Shanghai Maas” App is the official smart travel service platform launched by Shanghai, providing one-stop transportation solutions for citizens and tourists.

Currently, foreign travelers and foreigners in Shanghai can use the English version of the “Shanghai Maas” APP to check the real-time transportation information services of the Shanghai Metro, buses and ferries, and use the “Swipe-for-all Pass” (一码通行) to enjoy the same benefits as local citizens. “They can also use the Shanghai City Mobility Code (SCMC) to enjoy the same benefits as local citizens.

Real-time transportation information


Shanghai Maas provides real-time updates on buses, subways, cabs, and other transport options, helping users plan the best routes. It also notifies users of disruptions, such as subway congestion or road closures, allowing for quick adjustments to travel plans.

One-touch payment and code scanning


Shanghai Maas enables easy, cashless payment for buses, subways, and cabs through QR code scanning. Users can link their bank card, Alipay, or WeChat for seamless transactions, while also checking and recharging their transportation card balance within the app.

Shanghai Maas Pass(1/3/7 Days)

If you need to take public transportation for multiple transfers within a day, you can consider the combined day ticket (1/3/7 Days), which allows unlimited transfers on subways, buses, and ferries within the corresponding specified time. This will save you the trouble of accidentally riding through the station to make up for the ticket, enjoy the convenience of public transportation, and make traveling easier and more comfortable.

Various payment channels support bound foreign cards


-Alipay/WeChat: Visa/Master Card/Discover Card/Diners Club/JCB


-Union Pay:Visa/Master Card/ Diners Club/JCB

This is Hills' one-stop guide to public transportation in Shanghai. Of course, if you prefer a more convenient and flexible service, you can also learn more about Hills' customized charter bus and tour guide services. We wish you a fantastic journey in Shanghai!