So, you’ve heard about Shanghai’s super-fast Maglev train and want to try it? Excellent choice! Using the Shanghai Maglev is actually very straightforward and a fantastic way to zip from Pudong International Airport (PVG) into the city center. Here’s the quick lowdown: Head to the dedicated Maglev station located right inside Terminal 1 of PVG (follow the clear signs). Buy your ticket from the counters or automated machines using cash (RMB) or major credit cards; ticket prices vary based on whether you want a Single Journey or a Round Trip, and if you hold airline tickets or boarding passes, you might snag a small discount. Boarding is efficient – just show your ticket at the gate, hop on the sleek train when it arrives (they run frequently), find a seat, and hold on! The ride itself is the star: covering the 30 km to Longyang Road Station takes just 7-8 minutes at its top speed of 430 km/h (267 mph) – it’s an exhilarating, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it experience!
Shanghai: When should I plan my Maglev ride? (Planning & Frequency)
Timing your Maglev trip is simple but worth knowing. Trains run daily at frequent intervals. Typically, they depart Pudong Airport Maglev Station every 15-20 minutes throughout most of the day. The first train usually leaves around 6:45 AM from Pudong Airport, and the last service departs just after 9:30 PM. Always double-check the latest schedule when you arrive though, especially if landing late at night. The journey itself is incredibly short, as mentioned, but factor in buying tickets and walking to the platform. While it feels instantaneous, realistically budget about 20-25 minutes total from deciding to ride at the airport station to stepping off at Longyang Road. It’s perfect if your flight lands during its operating hours and your final destination is reasonably close to Longyang Road or easily accessible via the connecting metro lines.
Shanghai: How do I connect to the city from Longyang Road? (The Hub)
Okay, you’ve blasted into Longyang Road Station on the Shanghai Maglev! What next? While the Maglev doesn’t go directly downtown, Longyang Road is a major transportation hub, making connections a breeze. This is where the real journey into Shanghai begins for most travellers. Here’s how you connect:
- Shanghai Metro (Subway): This is the most common and efficient way forward. Longyang Road Station is directly connected to Lines 2, 7, and 16. Line 2 is your main artery, whisking you west directly to the heart of Shanghai – major stops like People’s Square, Jing’an Temple, West Nanjing Road, and Lujiazui (for the Oriental Pearl Tower) are all on this line. Just follow the clear signs within the station.
- Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Taxi stands are readily available outside Longyang Road Station. Apps like Didi (China’s Uber) work well here too. This is a good option if you have lots of luggage or your hotel isn’t metro-convenient.
- Buses: Various public bus routes serve the Longyang Road area, though the metro is generally faster and easier for visitors. Look for bus stops outside the station complex.
Shanghai: Can I use the Maglev for sightseeing? (Beyond the Airport Run)
Think the Maglev is only an airport shuttle? Think again! While that’s its primary function, it can be a fun mini-experience even for those already in Shanghai. If you’re staying near Longyang Road (Pudong side) or are visiting attractions out towards the airport (like the Shanghai Astronomical Museum or Shentong Metro Depot), using the Maglev for a speedy segment of your trip is totally doable. You can buy a round-trip ticket from Longyang Road just for the thrill of the high-speed ride itself – experiencing 430 km/h is a unique Shanghai attraction! Ride out to Pudong Airport station and straight back. It’s quick, unique, and gives you major bragging rights.
Shanghai: Why choose Maglev over taxi or metro? (The Pros & Cons)
So, is the Shanghai Maglev train the right choice for you? Let’s weigh it up against taxis or the regular metro:
| Feature | Shanghai Maglev Train | Taxi / Ride-Hailing | Shanghai Metro Line 2 (Full Trip) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Blazing fast!) | ⭐⭐ (Slow, traffic dependent) | ⭐⭐⭐ (Steady, but much longer) |
| Cost | ⭐⭐ (Most expensive option) | ⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate, meter/app based) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Cheapest, ~RMB 6-8) |
| Comfort | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Smooth, modern, seats) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Private, door-to-door) | ⭐⭐ (Can be crowded, standing) |
| Convenience | ⭐⭐⭐ (Airport direct, then connect) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Direct to destination) | ⭐⭐⭐ (Direct but many stops) |
| Experience | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Unique high-speed thrill!) | ⭐⭐ (Standard ride) | ⭐⭐ (Standard commute) |
| Best For | Speed demons, avoiding traffic jam | Lots of luggage, odd hours, groups | Budget travellers, central locations |
Key Takeaways:
- Maglev Wins on Pure Speed & Experience: Nothing beats it for getting to Longyang Road incredibly fast from PVG. The ride itself is a futuristic thrill.
- Taxi Wins on Direct Convenience: If your hotel or destination isn’t near a metro line connecting easily from Longyang Road, or you have heavy bags, a taxi direct from PVG might be less hassle overall, despite the potential traffic and cost.
- Metro Wins on Cost: If your final stop is readily accessible via metro (especially Line 2) and you’re budget-conscious and patient, taking Metro Line 2 all the way from PVG (no Maglev) is the cheapest, though slowest (~60+ mins) option.
Shanghai: What do I absolutely need to know before riding? (Essential Tips)
Before you jump on that super-fast train, keep these final tips in mind for a smooth Shanghai Maglev experience:
- Check the Hours: Confirm the operating schedule on the day of your travel, especially if arriving late at night or very early morning. Last trains leave before midnight!
- Discount Proof: If you have airline tickets (either physical or e-ticket on your phone) or boarding passes, show them when purchasing your Maglev ticket for a discount. Don’t forget!
- Payment: Have RMB cash available or ensure your international credit/debit card works at the machines/counters (sometimes foreign cards can be finicky). Mobile payments (Alipay/WeChat Pay) are common but may require a Chinese bank setup.
- Luggage: There’s ample luggage space onboard the train carriages, similar to airport trains. No major restrictions beyond common sense.
- Connection Time: Factor in the transfer time at Longyang Road to the metro, taxi, or bus when planning your total journey to your final destination. The Maglev is fast, but the next leg might take longer.
- The Speed Display: Look for the digital speedometer inside the train carriages – watching it climb
