Shanghai Maglev Train: How to Ride, Map Routes & Ticket Prices

When landing at Pudong Airport and needing to get to central Shanghai quickly, the Shanghai Maglev Train is the ideal option. It ranks among the world’s fastest trains and travels to Longyang Road Station in just around 8 minutes.
This guide explains the boarding process of the Maglev, its destination, ticket prices, and what the ride is like. It is useful for those visiting Shanghai for the first time as well as anyone in need of a quick way to reach the urban area.

What Is the Shanghai Maglev Train?

The Shanghai Maglev Train is the world’s first commercial magnetic levitation train, one of the fastest trains globally, providing high-speed travel between Shanghai’s airport and the city. It is mainly use by air passengers traveling between Pudong Airport and downtown Shanghai.

How Does the Shanghai Maglev Train Work?

Unlike normal trains, the Maglev doesn’t have wheels. It floats slightly above the tracks using magnetic force. Magnets lift the train and push it forward, so there’s no contact with the rail. This makes the ride very smooth and quiet.

Where Does the Shanghai Maglev Train Go?

The Shanghai Maglev runs a non‑stop route between Pudong International Airport and Longyang Road Station in central Shanghai.

When Was the Shanghai Maglev Train Built?

The line was opened in 2004 as the world’s first commercial maglev service in transportation history.

How Fast Does the Shanghai Maglev Train Go?

The train can reach a top speed of 431 km/h. The whole trip takes just 7 to 8 minutes to travel around 30 kilometres. That makes it the fastest and most exciting way to get from the airport to downtown Shanghai.

Shanghai Maglev Train Map, Route & Stations

Source: China Maps

The Shanghai Maglev Train runs between Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Longyang Road Station in the city. The full route is about 30 kilometres.

There are only two main stations:

• Pudong Airport Station (at the airport, near Terminal 2).
• Longyang Road Station (in Pudong, where you can change to Metro Lines 2, 7, 16, and 18).

If you need to go further into the city, you can take the metro or a taxi from Longyang Road after you get off the Maglev.

Shanghai Maglev Train Operating Hours

Plus, there are two extra late-night trains departing Pudong Airport at 22:15 and 22:40, heading to Longyang Road only.

Maglev Train Quick Tips

• Doors close 1 minute before departure, and you should check in at least 5 minutes early.
• The last return train from Longyang Road is at 21:40. After that, visitors typically take a metro or taxi.

Shanghai Maglev Train Ticket Price

Note

• Round-trip tickets are cheaper than two single tickets if you plan to return within 7 days.
• Discounted tickets are only available for same-day flight passengers.

How to Buy Shanghai Maglev Train Tickets?

Shanghai Maglev Train Tickets In Person

You can purchase tickets in person, at one of the ticket centres located on the 2nd floor of:

• Pudong International Airport Station (between Terminals 1 & 2)
• Longyang Road Station

Shanghai Maglev Train Tickets Online

• Trip.com
• WeChat or Alipay (search “上海磁悬浮” mini program)

After purchase, you will get a QR code or pickup code to scan at the station gate or machine.

Tap-to-Ride Directly at Shanghai Maglev Gates

For even greater convenience, you can use your foreign contactless credit card to tap directly through the Maglev gates without purchasing a physical ticket first. This service supports:

• Most major international credit cards are accepted, but ensure your card has a chip and contactless capability
• Mobile payment options (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay) linked to these foreign cards

This method is best for foreign travelers without local payment methods (Alipay/WeChat Pay), and the prices are the same as regular tickets (Economy: ¥50 one-way, VIP: ¥100 one-way).

Note

• Bring Your ID & Cash or Card.
• Use cash (RMB), or Alipay/WeChat Pay.
• Bring your passport (foreigners) or Shanghai Transport Card (locals can tap to pay).
• If you're travelling same-day with a flight, show your boarding pass to get 20% off economy fare.

How to Take the Maglev Train in Shanghai?

1. After purchase, follow signs and go up to the 3rd-floor platform via the escalator.
2. Wait behind the safety line. Staff and signs announce boarding, and doors close 1 minute before departure.
3. Present your ticket, QR code, or tap your card at the gate.
4. Keep the ticket throughout your ride—you’ll need it to exit.
5. At Longyang Road Station, present your ticket or tap out. 
6. From there, you can transfer to Metro Lines 2, 7, 16, or 18, or grab a taxi or bus to continue your journey 

Shanghai Maglev Quick Tips

• Arrive at least 5 minutes before departure; boarding ends 1 minute prior. 
• To save money, show your same-day flight ticket for a 20% discount on an economy ride. 

Shanghai Maglev Train vs Other Modes of Transportation

When arriving at Shanghai Pudong Airport, you have several transport options to reach the city center. Each choice has its pros and cons. To help you decide if the Maglev Train is worth it, here’s a quick comparison with the metro and taxi:

When Should You Choose Maglev?

• If you want to experience one of the world’s fastest trains.
• If you want to get to Longyang Road quickly and then transfer easily to metro lines.
• If you travel during daytime hours and don’t mind paying a bit more.

When to Skip the Maglev?

• If you want to save money and don’t mind a longer ride, take the metro.
• If you have lots of luggage or travel late at night, a taxi might be better.
• If your destination is far from Longyang Road, taking the metro or a taxi from the airport could be easier.

Taking the Shanghai Maglev Train is a special experience and the fastest way to get from Pudong Airport to downtown Shanghai. Whether you’re going for speed, comfort, or just wanting to try something fun and different, it gives you a smooth, quick ride you won’t find anywhere else. Just plan ahead, pick up your tickets easily online or at the station, and enjoy the thrill of riding one of the world’s fastest trains. Don’t forget to check out this amazing modern feat when you’re in Shanghai next time.

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