Shanghai Maglev Train: Speed, Route & Cost

The Shanghai Maglev Train is China's first maglev line and the world's first commercial maglev railway, officially opened on April 27, 2006. It significantly reduces the travel time for passengers heading to Pudong International Airport, offering a fast and efficient connection between the airport and downtown Shanghai.

The Maglev train offers two types of tickets: VIP and ordinary. The VIP carriage is located at the front of the train and features wider, more comfortable seats. However, there are significantly fewer VIP seats compared to ordinary ones. Below are the prices for both ticket types.

TypeOrdinary SeatVIP SeatNote
Single Trip50 RMB per pax (about 7.1 USD)100 RMB per pax (about 14.2 USD)Valid on the day of purchase
Round Trip80 RMB per pax (about 11.2 USD)160 RMB per pax (about 22.4 USD)Valid in a week
Discounted Single Trip Ticket40 RMB per pax (about 5.6 USD)80 RMB per pax (about 11.2 USD)By presenting air-ticket of the same day

Gentle reminder: Each passenger can take two children on the train with a height of 1.3 meters or below (equals to 4.27 ft) for free. If you're with more than two children, tickets must be purchased for the additional number.

Comparison between Metro and Shanghai Maglev TrainComparison between Metro and Shanghai Maglev Train

Many tourists choose to take Metro Line 2 from Pudong International Airport directly to the Bund, which will take about 1.2 hours. However, if you take the Maglev train and switch to Metro Line 2 at Longyang Road station. This will save about 30 minutes for you.

Apart from that, the Maglev train, as a new mode of transportation, has both advantages and disadvantages when compared to common transport options. Since the Maglev only operates between Longyang Station and Pudong Airport, here we will focus on comparing this specific route.

Modes of TransportationTime CostPriceAdvantagesDisadvantages
By maglev train8 minutes50 RMBFastestHave a longer interval than Metro and taxi, and might be crowded during peak hours
By car40 minutesAbout 120 RMBPrivate, not crowdedMight meet traffic jams during peak hours
By Metro50 minutes6 RMBCheapestTakes more time and might also be crowded during peak hours

If you want to know more about the maglev train, consider visiting the Shanghai Maglev Train Museum.

It is located near Longyang Road Maglev Station. Just walk downstairs after exiting the station, and you'll find it.

The museum is relatively small, so you can quickly explore it in a short amount of time. Here, you can see models of the Maglev train and learn about related technology. You can also try a fun interactive experience by riding a stationary bike to compare your cycling speed with the speed of the Maglev train: an engaging and enjoyable activity!

1. Is it possible to go on the Maglev train with luggage?

Yes, you can bring your luggage when you take the maglev train. For small bags or backpacks, you can keep it with you in your seat. For suitcases or larger bags, you can place them on designated luggage racks above the seat or in the closet near the doors of each carriage.

2. How do I get to my hotel if I take a Shanghai Maglev train from Pudong Airport?

The terminal station of the maglev train is Longyang Road. There are a few options if you want to go to your hotel: 1) Check the nearest Metro station to your hotel and transfer to the certain line. 2) Take an exclusive car. Contact us and we can arrange a private car to escort you to your hotel.

3. Can I throw away the ticket once I enter the station?

No. Please keep your ticket safe, as it will be collected when exiting the station. Do not fold or damage the ticket, as it may prevent the machine from reading it.

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