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Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) is Shanghai’s primary international gateway, operating 24 hours with a modern terminal–satellite concourse layout designed for high-volume global travel.
The airport is located about 30 km from downtown Shanghai and offers multiple transport options, including Metro Line 2, the Maglev train, airport express rail, buses, taxis, and direct connections to nearby Yangtze River Delta cities.
PVG supports efficient international and domestic transfers through clear wayfinding, automated people movers, and well-separated arrival and departure flows across Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and satellite halls S1 and S2.
International travelers benefit from visa-free transit policies, multilingual assistance, 24-hour immigration services, and dedicated one-stop service centers designed to reduce entry and transit friction.
Facilities at Pudong Airport include comprehensive dining, duty-free shopping, rest zones, lounges, family services, medical care, luggage storage, and overnight amenities suitable for long layovers.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) is Shanghai’s primary international airport and a major global aviation hub serving the Yangtze River Delta region.
This guide provides a complete, traveler-focused overview of PVG’s terminals, transportation, transit procedures, international services, and facilities, designed especially for first-time and international travelers.
Global network: Direct flights to 54 countries and 302 destinations, including long-haul routes to Europe, Africa, Oceania, and the Americas
Notable routes: New international destinations such as Belgrade, Casablanca, and Geneva, plus the ultra-long-haul Shanghai–Auckland–Buenos Aires route
Annual traffic (2025 reference):
~839,000 flights
~135 million passengers
Official website: https://www.shanghaiairport.com/pvg/ (available in Chinese, English, Japanese, and Korean)
24-hour airport hotline: +86 21 96990 (multilingual support)
Emergency assistance: Airport emergency call points; nationwide emergency numbers 110 (police) and 120 (medical) support English
Terminals T1 & T2: Open 24 hours
Check-in counters:
International flights: usually open 3 hours before departure, close 45 minutes before departure
Domestic flights: usually open 2 hours before departure, close 30 minutes before departure
Security screening: Opens in line with check-in; international passengers are advised to arrive earlier due to longer procedures
Shanghai Pudong International Airport operates a modern “main terminal + satellite concourse” system.
The airport’s core passenger area consists of T1, T2, and S1 , S2.
Together, they form one of the largest airport complexes in the world, with the satellite concourses alone covering 620,000 square meters, making them the largest single remote satellite halls globally.
Terminal 1 (T1):
Primarily serves China Eastern Airlines, Shanghai Airlines, and SkyTeam alliance carriers, handling both domestic and international flights.
Terminal 2 (T2):
Handles Air China, China Southern, Juneyao, Spring Airlines, as well as Star Alliance and oneworld carriers. T2 has a higher share of long-haul international routes, including newly added intercontinental services such as Shanghai–Buenos Aires.
Ground level (Transportation level):
Taxi stands, ride-hailing pick-up zones, airport buses, and the entrance to Metro Line 2. Some luggage storage counters and passenger service desks are also located here.
Departure level (Level 4):
The main departure area, including airline check-in counters, self-service kiosks, and baggage drop. After security screening, passengers proceed either to the main terminal gates or to the (Automated People Mover) APM for satellite concourses.
International departures also include immigration and customs pre-check areas on this level.
Arrival level (Level 2):
Domestic and international baggage claim areas, airport bus ticket counters, arrival halls, and tourism information desks. International arrivals connect directly to immigration inspection and customs clearance.
S1 connects to T1, and S2 connects to T2.
They are boarding-only areas—check-in, security screening, and immigration are all completed in the main terminals.
If your boarding pass shows a gate starting with “G” or “H”, you will need to take the underground APM after security.
The APM operates 24 hours a day, runs every 2–3 minutes, and provides clear English announcements.
Travel time between terminals and satellite halls is short and efficient.
Satellite halls are fully equipped for transfers, supporting international-to-international, international-to-domestic, and domestic-to-international connections.
Domestic-to-domestic transfers can often be completed on the same level, significantly reducing connection time.
Overall wayfinding is clear and well-organized:
Check-in areas are grouped by airline
International check-in is mainly concentrated on the north side of T2
Security checkpoints are adjacent to check-in zones and feature multilingual signage
Immigration and customs are located only in international departure and arrival areas, with both automated e-gates and staffed counters available
Baby care rooms:
Available on all levels in T1, T2, S1, and S2, especially near departure, arrival, and gate areas. Facilities include bottle warmers, diaper-changing tables, and private nursing spaces, with bilingual signage.
Children’s play areas:
Mainly located airside in T2 after security, offering safe play equipment for young children during layovers.
Accessibility services:
Barrier-free routes and elevators cover the entire airport. Free wheelchair rental is available at service counters on the arrival level of T1 and T2 with valid identification. Accessible restrooms and mobility aids are widely available.
Medical services:
Medical clinics are located on both departure and arrival levels of T1 and T2, operating 24 hours a day. Basic treatment, emergency care, and common medications are available, with English-speaking staff.
Rest & overnight facilities:
In 2025, over 30 new sleep pod locations were added in international departure areas of T1 and T2, featuring flat recliners, ventilation systems, and charging ports.
In addition, 8 free overnight rest zones provide more than 1,000 rest seats and 228 charging outlets, ideal for late-night transfers.
Business centers:
Located on departure levels of T1 and T2, offering printing, scanning, copying, and document binding. Some locations also provide small meeting rooms. Pricing is clearly displayed.
Charging facilities:
Power outlets are available throughout the airport. Satellite halls feature wireless charging tables, while lounges and rest pods offer fast-charging ports.
Changing rooms:
Mainly located on arrival levels of T1 and T2, with some areas offering lockers.
Smoking areas:
Smoking is strictly prohibited indoors. Designated outdoor smoking zones are clearly marked near departure and arrival levels.
Luggage storage:
Official storage counters are located on arrival levels:
T1: opposite Gate 5
T2: opposite Gate 1
Pricing is transparent (e.g., backpacks approx. ¥10/day, suitcases approx. ¥20/day). Lockable storage is available for valuables.
A 24-hour storage facility is also available near Yuandong Avenue Metro Station, two stops from the airport, suitable for long-term storage.
Luggage wrapping:
Available near check-in areas and storage counters, offering plastic wrapping and cartons. Staff assistance is provided.
Lost & found:
T1: Arrival level near Gate 5, Tel: +86 21 2234 4553
T2: Arrival level near Gate 1, Tel: +86 21 2238 1086
Services operate 24 hours by phone. Items can be claimed in person or collected by an authorized representative with proper identification.
This section walks you through arriving, departing, and transferring at Pudong Airport in the most practical way possible.
The structure is designed for quick scanning, first-time visitors, and mobile reading, without sacrificing important details.
Arriving at Shanghai Pudong International Airport is a highly structured and traveler-friendly experience, especially for international passengers.
From landing to the arrival hall, the entire process is clearly guided and increasingly automated.
Once you leave the aircraft, follow the clearly marked multilingual signs toward immigration.
Along the arrival corridor, QR codes provide optional audio guidance in multiple languages, including English, Japanese, Korean, and several UN official languages, making navigation straightforward even for first-time visitors.
At immigration, eligible passengers can use automated self-service gates for fingerprint and facial recognition checks, significantly reducing wait times.
Travelers who require manual processing will find staffed counters with multilingual assistance available.
The process is orderly and well managed, even during peak hours.
After immigration, proceed to the baggage claim area on Level 2.
Each carousel is equipped with electronic screens showing real-time baggage status, including loading progress, first bag delivery, and final bag arrival.
Airport staff, often referred to as “baggage assistants,” help organize luggage for easier pickup and proactively assist elderly passengers and travelers with special needs.
Customs clearance is streamlined through electronic declaration systems.
Travelers can complete the declaration in advance via official mobile platforms or confirm their information upon arrival.
Smart customs channels allow eligible passengers to pass through quickly with minimal interaction, while staffed lanes remain available when needed.
After clearing customs, you will enter the Level 2 arrival hall.
This area connects directly to all onward transportation options, including metro lines, airport buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services.
One-stop service counters, tourist information desks, and luggage storage facilities are all located nearby, allowing you to transition smoothly to the next stage of your journey.
Domestic arrivals at Pudong Airport are notably simple.
After disembarking, follow flight information signs to the designated baggage carousel, collect your luggage, and proceed directly into the arrival hall.
With no immigration or customs procedures required, most domestic passengers reach ground transportation within minutes.
Metro access, airport buses, taxis, and essential traveler services are all concentrated in the arrival hall, making onward travel quick and efficient.
Pudong Airport offers multiple check-in options to suit different travel styles.
Online check-in is available through airline apps, official websites, or the Shanghai Airport mini-program, allowing passengers to arrive with a digital boarding pass.
Self-service kiosks are widely available in both T1 and T2. Foreign passports are supported, and instructions are provided in English.
Manual check-in counters open about 3 hours before international departures and 2 hours before domestic flights. Multilingual staff are available to assist foreign travelers.
Checked baggage must meet airline size and weight requirements.
Special items such as strollers, wheelchairs, fragile goods, or oversized luggage should be declared at check-in.
Pudong Airport now supports 24-hour self-service baggage drop for many airlines, including international departures.
The process is clearly guided with English instructions.
Security screening follows check-in.
International passengers should allow extra time, as procedures include additional document checks.
Before proceeding to the gate, double-check:
Terminal (T1 or T2)
Boarding gate number
Boarding time
Passport validity
Electronic boarding passes are widely accepted, but printing a paper copy is recommended as a backup, especially for international flights.
Most international-to-international transfers are handled airside.
Passengers do not need to collect checked baggage, as it is transferred automatically.
Follow transit signs to the next gate area, with facial recognition and contactless temperature checks used along the route.
Satellite terminals (S1 and S2) offer rest areas, dining, and charging facilities for longer layovers.
Passengers must clear immigration, collect checked baggage, pass customs, and then re-check luggage for the domestic flight.
After security screening, proceed to the domestic departure area. A minimum transfer time of 3 hours is recommended.
After a domestic arrival, passengers can use dedicated transfer corridors to reach international departures without exiting the terminal.
Security and document checks are completed before entering the international boarding area.
For select China Eastern flights, the upgraded “Air-Port Link” service allows passengers to transfer between Hongqiao and Pudong airports without reclaiming luggage.
Travelers receive a free airport rail ticket and complete the transfer in about 40 minutes, with baggage handled by the airline.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport offers a wide range of transport options, making it easy to reach downtown Shanghai, transfer between airports, or continue to nearby cities in the Yangtze River Delta.
Below is a clear breakdown of the most practical choices for travelers.
Metro Line 2 is the primary rail link between Pudong Airport and central Shanghai.
The station is located in the integrated transport hub between T1 and T2, and can be reached on foot directly from the arrival hall.
This line connects the airport with major city areas such as People’s Square, Lujiazui, and East Nanjing Road.
The full journey to downtown takes about 60 minutes.
Operating hours: 6:00–23:00
(Late-night services around 22:45–23:00 are added on Fridays, Sundays, and public holidays)
Fare: Approximately RMB 6–8, distance-based
Payment: Ticket machines accept VISA and MasterCard
Foreign cards can also be linked via the Shanghai Public Transport app
Signage: Clear bilingual (Chinese–English) signs throughout stations
This option is budget-friendly, reliable, and ideal for first-time visitors.
The Airport Express Line is designed specifically for cross-airport transfers between Pudong Airport and Hongqiao Airport.
Travel time: About 40 minutes
Frequency: Every 15 minutes (10 minutes during peak hours)
Operating hours: 6:00–22:00
Fare: RMB 4–26, depending on distance
The line also stops at Shanghai International Tourism Resort (Disney area) and connects seamlessly with Metro Line 2 at Pudong Airport Station.
China Eastern Airlines transit passengers may receive free tickets, making this one of the most efficient ways to transfer between the two airports.
For travelers heading to Suzhou, Hangzhou, Nanjing, or other Yangtze River Delta cities:
Take Metro Line 2 from Pudong Airport to Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station (about 1.5 hours).
Transfer to China’s high-speed rail network.
Typical travel times from Hongqiao Station:
Suzhou: ~25 minutes
Hangzhou: ~45 minutes
Nanjing: ~1.5 hours
Foreign travelers can purchase tickets using a passport via the 12306 website/app or at station counters.
Hongqiao Station also has multilingual service desks to assist international passengers.
Airport buses are a cost-effective option, especially for travelers with large luggage.
City routes: Serve major districts, hotels, and railway stations
Line 1 (to Jing’an Temple) and Line 2 (to Shanghai Railway Station) operate 24 hours
Regional routes: Direct buses to Suzhou, Wuxi, Ningbo, and other nearby cities
Fare:
City routes: RMB 16–20
Regional routes: RMB 30–80
Tickets can be purchased at arrival-level counters or online.
Buses have dedicated luggage storage, and some routes offer English announcements.
This shuttle is designed for travelers heading to Shanghai International Tourism Resort, including Disneyland and nearby hotels.
Late-night departures: 22:30 and 24:00
Fare: RMB 20
Stops: Major resort hotels and homestay areas
Signage: Clear bilingual instructions
It’s a reliable option for travelers arriving late at night.
Official taxi stands are located at the arrival level of both T1 and T2, with clear English signage.
Base fare: RMB 16 (first 3 km)
After 3 km: RMB 2.5 per km
Night surcharge: +30% (23:00–5:00)
Typical fare to downtown: RMB 150–200
Taxis accept cash, Alipay, WeChat Pay, and major international cards.
Most drivers have basic English ability, and showing the destination address in English is usually sufficient.
Foreign travelers can use DiDi Global, which offers an English interface and supports international cards.
Pick-up points:
T1: Near Gate 1
T2: Near Gate 2
Select the correct terminal when booking to avoid confusion.
It’s best to request a ride 5–10 minutes in advance.
Always confirm the vehicle plate number before boarding.
From downtown Shanghai, Pudong Airport is accessible via Yingbin Expressway and Huaxia Elevated Road. Clear bilingual signs guide drivers directly to terminal entrances.
Travelers coming from other Yangtze River Delta cities can reach the airport via G60 (Shanghai–Kunming Expressway) or G15 (Shenyang–Haikou Expressway).
The airport operates six parking areas (P1–P6) with around 12,000 spaces:
Near T1: P1, P2
Near T2: P3, P4, P5, P6
Parking fees:
First 2 hours: RMB 10/hour
After 2 hours: RMB 15/hour
Daily maximum: RMB 120
Long-term parking (P6): RMB 80/day
Electronic boards display real-time space availability. Payment supports mobile wallets and international cards.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport is large, but getting around inside the airport is straightforward once you understand the shuttle systems, signage, and terminal layout.
This section breaks everything down in a traveler-friendly way.
APM is the fastest and most important way to move between the main terminals and satellite halls.
Connects:
T1 ↔ Satellite Hall S1
T2 ↔ Satellite Hall S2
Operating hours: 24/7
Frequency: Every 2–3 minutes
Travel time: About 4 minutes per trip
Languages: Bilingual Chinese–English announcements and screens
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair-friendly
When do you need it?
If your boarding pass shows a gate starting with “G” or “H”, your flight departs from a satellite hall.
You must clear check-in and security in T1 or T2 first, then follow signs for the APM.
The APM stations are located on the lower level of each terminal, clearly marked after security.
If you need to transfer between T1 and T2 before or after a flight, a free shuttle bus is available.
Pick-up points:
T1: Arrival Level, near Gate 5
T2: Arrival Level, near Gate 1
Operating hours: From first to last flight of the day
Frequency:
Peak hours: every 10 minutes
Off-peak: every 15–20 minutes
Onboard: Luggage racks, bilingual signage
This option is especially useful if you arrive in one terminal and depart from another.
Parking Shuttle:
Free 24-hour shuttle between P4 long-term parking and the terminals.
Electric Cart Service:
Available inside terminals for travelers with reduced mobility, infants, or heavy luggage.
Request at service counters
Some routes are free; paid routes have clearly posted prices
You have several reliable options:
Digital maps:
Available via the Shanghai Airport website, official apps, and WeChat mini-programs
(interactive navigation, facility search, multi-language support)
Paper maps:
Free at service counters on the arrival level of T1 and T2
Touchscreen maps:
Located near check-in areas and post-security zones, showing live passenger flow and facilities
Pudong Airport uses a standardized, international-friendly signage system.
Languages: Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean
Universal icons:
Check-in, Security, Gates, Baggage Claim, Transfers — no language barrier
Smart overhead signs:
Large digital signs above check-in islands show airline zones and real-time flight info
T1 uses yellow-lettered check-in island markers
T2 uses suspended signage, easier to spot from a distance
Transfer signs:
Color-coded and clearly marked for quick identification
Use the airport’s indoor navigation app to get step-by-step directions
(e.g., “T2 Duty Free” or “S1 Nursing Room”)
Gate numbering matters:
T1 gates: 1–32 (no Gate 13)
T2 gates: 50–98
Domestic: C Zone (50–57, 92–98)
International: D Zone (58–90)
Satellite halls: Gates starting with G or H
Ask for help:
Information desks are placed roughly every 300 meters, with multilingual staff available
T1:
Mainly China Eastern (MU), Shanghai Airlines (FM), and SkyTeam members
(handles both domestic and international flights)
T2:
Air China (CA), China Southern (CZ), Juneyao (HO), Spring Airlines (9C),
plus Star Alliance and oneworld members
(higher proportion of long-haul international flights)
Satellite Halls:
S1 serves T1 flights
S2 serves T2 flights
Boarding only — check-in and security must be done in the main terminal
Before travel:
Check the Shanghai Airport website, airline app, or booking platform using your flight number
At the airport:
Large terminal signs at entrances and smart screens in departure halls show airline zones
Important tip:
Terminal assignments can change. Always reconfirm within 24 hours of departure.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) is one of China’s most international-friendly entry points, offering visa-free transit, multilingual support, and 24-hour services designed specifically for overseas travelers.
PVG fully implements China’s latest transit visa-free policies, making short stays and stopovers much easier for international passengers.
Who it’s for: Travelers of all nationalities
Stay limit: Up to 24 hours
Requirements:
Valid passport
Confirmed onward ticket to a third country or region
Important note:
Travelers must stay within the airport’s designated transit area. Leaving the restricted zone requires applying for temporary entry permission at immigration.
This option is ideal for short international connections or overnight layovers.
Who it’s for: Citizens of 55 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Russia, and Indonesia
Stay limit: Up to 10 days within approved regions
Allowed activities: Tourism, business visits, family visits
Not allowed: Employment, study, journalism, or other pre-approved activities
No advance application is required.
Eligible travelers can apply directly at immigration upon arrival at Pudong Airport.
Tip: Prepare your onward ticket, accommodation details, and basic itinerary to speed up verification.
PVG provides comprehensive, end-to-end support to reduce language barriers and procedural stress.
Volunteer staff offering support in 13 foreign languages
Portable translation devices supporting 80 languages, available at service counters
Airport signage in Chinese, English, Japanese, and Korean
QR codes in arrival corridors provide audio navigation in UN official languages + Japanese and Korean
Located in T1 and T2, these 24-hour centers help international travelers with:
Currency exchange (19 foreign currencies)
Linking international bank cards to Alipay or WeChat Pay
Transportation booking and city travel advice
Tourism information and route planning
All service interfaces support up to 8 languages, making first-time entry much smoother.
SIM cards: China Telecom and China Mobile counters in both terminals (passport required)
Free Wi-Fi: Airport-wide coverage; passport authentication supported
“Pule GO” smart service:
Order food or retail items from 100+ shops
Delivered directly to your gate, check-in area, or seating zone
Built-in multilingual indoor navigation
Since July 1, 2025, PVG offers:
24-hour customs, immigration, and security for international departures
24-hour departure tax refund service
Self-service check-in and baggage drop around the clock
Tax refund counters (after security):
T1: Near Gate 19
T2: Near Gate D83
Refunds can be issued in cash or credited to bank cards.
Lost items can be checked and claimed through the Shanghai Airport Mini Program:
Online search before visiting the counter
In-person pickup or authorized third-party collection
Reduces unnecessary back-and-forth in the terminal
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) offers one of the most comprehensive airport dining and shopping experiences in China, combining upgraded quality with traveler-friendly convenience for both short layovers and long connections.
PVG’s food scene has been significantly upgraded, covering Chinese regional cuisine, international dining, and fast, reliable options for travelers on the move.
Pudong Airport now hosts several airport-first restaurant brands, making it possible to experience authentic Chinese food before leaving Shanghai.
Shanghai local cuisine:
Restaurants like Chenglongxing Crab Palace and Liufu Restaurant specialize in classic Shanghainese dishes such as braised pork belly and crab roe rice.
Cantonese dim sum:
102 Teahouse serves shrimp dumplings, siu mai, and other light dim sum favorites, with selected outlets offering English menus and adjustable seasoning.
These options are ideal for travelers who want a proper Chinese meal without leaving the airport.
For international tastes, PVG offers a growing range of premium options:
Japanese cuisine:
Sushikokoro Wabi is the first fresh-prepared raw sushi restaurant in a mainland Chinese airport, featuring bluefin tuna and seafood bowls.
European bakery & desserts:
The airport’s first Joël Robuchon Bakery brings Michelin-level pastries, including its signature puff pastry.
Other global flavors:
Western, Southeast Asian, and fusion restaurants are available across terminals and satellite halls.
For quick meals or late-night arrivals:
International chains such as McDonald’s, KFC, and Starbucks
24-hour convenience stores like FamilyMart and Lawson offering hot food, drinks, and travel essentials
All dining outlets accept Alipay, WeChat Pay, and international cards (Visa, MasterCard), so payment is rarely an issue for foreign travelers.
Using the official “Pule GO” mini program, travelers can:
Order from over 100 airport restaurants
Have food delivered directly to gates, check-in areas, or seating zones
Use built-in multilingual indoor navigation to track delivery
This is especially useful during tight connections or long waits at the gate.
Pudong Airport’s duty-free system has been optimized and expanded:
Terminal 1 & S1 Satellite Hall: Operated by Dufry Shanghai
Terminal 2 & S2 Satellite Hall: Operated by China Duty Free Group
Retail space has increased, with a broader selection that now includes:
International beauty and luxury brands
Tobacco and alcohol
Electronics (smartphones, mini drones)
Baby products, health supplements, and OTC medicine
Chinese heritage brands and cultural products
Duty-free shops accept international cards and mobile payments
Some stores offer online pre-order with airport pickup
Minimum purchase: ¥500 per store per day
Goods must be unused and unopened
Departure within 90 days of purchase
Refund rates:
11% (general goods) → approx. 9% after service fee
8% (books, agricultural products) → approx. 6% after service fee
Show passport when purchasing and request a tax refund form
Complete customs verification before departure
Collect refund after security at:
T1: Near Gate 19
T2: Near Gate D83
Refund via cash or bank card (processed within 90 days)
Duty-free stores and tax refund counters for international and regional departures operate 24 hours, matching the airport’s round-the-clock immigration, self check-in, and baggage drop services.
Airline lounges:
Example: China Southern Airlines’ flagship lounge (1,500㎡) features Shanghainese dishes such as wontons and braised pork, plus family areas, massage chairs, and themed cultural activities.
Paid lounges:
Available in terminals and satellite halls, supporting Priority Pass and DragonPass, with dining, showers, and quiet workspaces.
Fast-track security (“Easy Security”)
Available at selected checkpoints in T1 and T2 for eligible passengers
Showers & comfort services
11 free 24-hour shower rooms across transit and arrival areas
Valet parking & charging
Available for business travelers; wireless charging tables in satellite halls
Planning your time well at Shanghai Pudong International Airport can save you stress, especially during peak travel seasons.
Below are practical, experience-based tips to help you arrive, clear procedures, and pass security smoothly.
Based on official airport guidance and real passenger flow at PVG, here’s how early you should arrive before departure:
No checked baggage: Arrive at least 2 hours before departure
With checked baggage or special services (infants, wheelchair requests): 2.5 hours recommended
Check-in closes: Usually 45 minutes before departure
Arriving early helps avoid last-minute queues, especially during morning and evening rush hours.
Standard recommendation: Arrive at least 3 hours before departure
Peak days & holidays: Add an extra 30–60 minutes buffer
Check-in closes: Typically 60 minutes before departure
International departures involve immigration, customs checks, and longer security procedures, so extra time is essential.
International → Domestic transfer: Minimum 3 hours
Cross-airport transfer (Pudong ↔ Hongqiao): Minimum 4 hours
Using self check-in or fast-track security: Time can be saved, but still plan at least 1.5 hours on-site
Spring Festival travel rush:
Departures: Jan 25–27
Arrivals: Feb 3–5
May Day & National Day holidays often exceed 370,000 passengers per day
Domestic flights: 07:00–09:00, 16:00–18:00
International flights: 14:00–20:00
During these times, check-in and security lines are noticeably longer.
Choose off-peak flights:
Early morning (before 07:00)
Midday (11:00–14:00)
Late night (after 21:00)
Complete online check-in via airline apps or the Shanghai Airport mini program
Use Fast Security (“Easy Security”) if eligible—no reservation required
Travel smarter to the airport:
Use Metro Line 2 or the Airport Express Line during peak hours
Avoid taxis and ride-hailing queues at rush times
Driving yourself:
Reserve long-term parking (P4) and use the free shuttle to terminals
First-time flyers and elderly passengers can call 96990 to reserve full-process assistance services
These services include guided check-in, priority lanes, and staff support throughout the airport
Valid Chinese ID card or temporary ID
Under 16: birth certificate or household registration
Lost or expired ID: apply for a temporary digital boarding certificate via WeChat or Alipay, or visit airport police counters
Passport or permanent residence permit
Passport validity must meet entry requirements of the destination country
Lighters, matches, fire starters
Fireworks, controlled knives, weapons
Power banks over 160Wh
Power banks without 3C certification or on recall lists
Liquids
Domestic flights: personal cosmetics ≤100ml each (inspection required)
International flights: containers ≤100ml, total ≤1L in a clear bag
Power banks / lithium batteries
Carry-on only (no checked baggage)
≤100Wh: allowed
100–160Wh: airline approval required (max 2 per passenger)
Sharp or blunt objects
Knives, trekking poles must be checked
Alcohol
Carry-on not allowed
Checked baggage only, 24%–70% alcohol, max 5L per person
Terminal entrances require explosive screening only
Checked baggage is screened after check-in
Carry-on items are inspected at security checkpoints before boarding
Fast Security (“Easy Security”) lanes are available at:
T1: Checkpoint 6
T2: Checkpoints 19 and 39
Avoid oversized or overweight luggage, confirm baggage allowance in advance, and arrange pet transport with airlines ahead of time.
If you have a long layover at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), you have two smart options:
step out for a short city experience, or rest comfortably near the airport.
With updated transit visa policies and efficient transport, even a few spare hours can be well used.
As of December 17, 2024, China offers a 240-hour visa-free transit policy for citizens of 55 countries.
Eligible travelers can:
Enter China without a visa
Stay in Shanghai and nearby regions
Travel for tourism, business meetings, or family visits
(Employment, study, and media work are not permitted)
At PVG, immigration has introduced pre-screening and same-counter processing, and travelers can complete arrival cards online or during the flight, significantly reducing queue times.
Getting to central Shanghai is easier than most travelers expect:
Maglev Train
7 minutes to Longyang Road
RMB 50 (RMB 40 with same-day flight ticket)
Fastest ground transport in the world, seamless transfer to Metro Line 2
Airport Express Line
About 30 minutes to Hongqiao Transport Hub
Convenient for cross-city or rail connections
Metro Line 2
45–60 minutes to key areas like Lujiazui and Nanjing Road
Budget-friendly and tourist-friendly, bilingual signage throughout
Taxi / Ride-hailing
40–80 minutes depending on traffic
Best for travelers with heavy luggage or limited time
Maglev → Metro Line 2 → Nanjing Road
Walk to The Bund, then metro to Lujiazui
Ideal for skyline photos and classic Shanghai street food like xiaolongbao
8–12 hours: Deeper Cultural Walk
Add Yuyuan Garden & City God Temple for traditional architecture
Or explore Tianzifang, a creative district inside historic lane houses
Free Half-Day City Tour (Official Program)
Available from June 2025
Sign-up desk at T2, Level 3, Island A
Includes transportation, English guide, currency exchange, and eSIM support
Limited to small groups, advance reservation required
Luggage storage:
24-hour counters in both T1 and T2
Language:
Metro stations and attractions use Chinese–English signage
Payment:
Alipay and WeChat Pay (bind international cards), plus Visa/Mastercard accepted widely
If leaving the airport feels rushed, staying nearby is often the smarter choice—especially for overnight or early-morning connections.
5-minute walk from terminals
24-hour shuttle (every ~5 minutes)
Short-stay rooms available (4 hours)
Ideal for business travelers and short rest stops
2.7 km from terminals
Free shuttle every 10 minutes
Fast check-in/out, reliable for tight schedules
Budget-friendly option
24-hour shuttle, multilingual front desk
Suitable for overnight rest without high cost
Layover under 6 hours:
Choose hotels offering short-stay rooms
6–24 hours:
Airport-affiliated hotels ensure reliable shuttles and flight info sync
Over 24 hours:
Consider chain hotels within 10 km for better value
Book via the Shanghai Airport mini program or major platforms
Note “transit passenger” when booking for priority handling
Hotels accept international cards and mobile payments
Late-night arrivals can head straight to shuttle pick-up points at terminal arrival exits—no reservation needed
Shanghai Pudong International Airport is about 30 kilometers (19 miles) from downtown Shanghai.
By metro, it takes 45–60 minutes to reach areas like People’s Square or Lujiazui.
The Maglev train is the fastest option, reaching the city in about 7 minutes to Longyang Road.
Pudong Airport has two main terminals: T1 and T2.
T1 mainly serves China Eastern Airlines and SkyTeam members.
T2 serves Air China, China Southern, and most long-haul international flights.
Always check your flight number or airline app before arrival, as terminal assignments can change.
Yes. Free shuttle buses run between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 throughout the day.
Travel time is about 10–15 minutes, and signs in English clearly show shuttle locations.
If your boarding gate is in a satellite hall (G or H gates), an underground people mover train is used instead.
Yes. Both terminals operate 24 hours a day, including immigration and security for international flights.
Late-night arrivals and early-morning departures are common, and many facilities—such as convenience stores, rest areas, and transfer services—remain available overnight.
In many cases, yes.
Travelers from eligible countries can use China’s 24-hour or 240-hour visa-free transit policy, allowing them to leave the airport and visit Shanghai.
You must have:
A valid passport
A confirmed onward ticket to a third country
Immigration officers will confirm eligibility upon arrival.
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Share your travel ideas, and we’ll help you plan a smooth, personalized trip across China.
Share your travel ideas, and we’ll help you plan a smooth, personalized trip across China.
We’re looking for experienced, part-time local guides to serve international travelers.
Requirements:
• Fluent in at least one foreign language
• 3–5 years guiding international visitors
• Able to operate in multiple regions in China
• Competitive and reasonable pricing
• Proven customer reviews or testimonials
• Professional, reliable, and responsive
• Flexible availability for custom trips
Hi there!
Just a quick heads-up — a helpful user named Volker let me know that some of the non-English content on this site may not be accurate.
This site is a one-person project I run part-time. I research and publish all the content myself, and the translations are currently done by machine (Google Translate). Balancing accuracy and accessibility across multiple languages is a real challenge.
If you spot any errors, I recommend switching to the English version using the button at the bottom left. I’ll continue working to improve the translations over time.
I truly appreciate your understanding. And if you have any suggestions, feel free to leave a comment — it means a lot to me.
— Anthony 2025.6.18
