Shanghai Maglev Train Guide 2026: Speed, Tickets & Tips

The Shanghai Maglev at a Glance

• Route: Connects Pudong Airport (PVG) to Longyang Road Station (where you transfer to the Metro to reach downtown).

• Travel Time: 30 kilometers in just 8 minutes.

• Top Speed: Normally cruises at 300 km/h (186 mph).

• Ticket Price: ¥50 Standard. Discount: Show your same-day flight boarding pass to get the ticket for just ¥40!

• Operating Hours: Roughly 6:45 AM to 9:40 PM daily.

The Shanghai Maglev Train (SMT), or Shanghai Transrapid, is the world's first commercially operated high-speed magnetic levitation line. Connecting Pudong International Airport (PVG) to the city center, it offers travelers an unparalleled speed experience, reaching speeds that few other trains in the world can match. If you are arriving at or departing from PVG, the Maglev is the fastest and most thrilling way to start or end your journey in Shanghai.

This ultimate guide provides everything you need to know to ride the Shanghai Maglev like a pro, from tickets and schedules to insider tips.

What Exactly is the Shanghai Maglev?

Before we dive into the practical details, let’s appreciate the engineering marvel you’re about to ride. “Maglev” stands for Magnetic Levitation. Instead of running on wheels like a conventional train, the Maglev “floats” about 10 millimeters above its guideway, propelled and guided by powerful electromagnets. This frictionless design is what allows it to reach incredible speeds.

The Shanghai Maglev was the world’s first commercial high-speed maglev line and remains the fastest. While its operational cruising speed is around 300 km/h (186 mph), it has demonstrated a top speed of 431 km/h (268 mph), a world record for passenger-carrying trains.

Key Practical Information You Need to Know

Ready to ride? Here are the essential facts to plan your journey.

1. The Route: Where Does It Go?

The Maglev line is a dedicated, point-to-point connection:

• From: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). The station is conveniently located between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, with clear signage guiding you there.
• To: Longyang Road Station (龙阳路站).

Crucially, Longyang Road is not in the absolute city center, but it is a major transportation hub. Here, you can easily transfer to Metro Line 2 (which takes you directly to People’s Square, Lujiazui, the Bund, and Hongqiao Airport) and Metro Line 7.

2. Speed & Travel Time: How Fast is It Really?

This is the Maglev’s biggest selling point. The entire 30-kilometer (18.6-mile) journey from PVG to Longyang Road takes a mere 8 minutes. While the train accelerates and decelerates, you’ll spend a good portion of the ride cruising at over 300 km/h. Watching the digital speed indicator climb is half the fun!

💡 Reality Check: Will I hit 431 km/h?

While the Maglev holds the commercial record of 431 km/h (268 mph), current daily operations are mostly capped at a cruising speed of 300 km/h (186 mph) for energy efficiency and maintenance reasons. Even at 300 km/h, the 8-minute journey is incredibly thrilling, but don't be disappointed if the digital speedometer in your carriage doesn't cross the 400 mark during your specific trip.

3. Maglev Schedule & Frequency: When Does It Run?

The Maglev operates with high frequency, making it easy to catch a train without a long wait.

• From Pudong Airport to Longyang Road: Generally from 6:45 AM to 9:40 PM.
• From Longyang Road to Pudong Airport: Generally from 7:02 AM to 9:42 PM.

Trains depart every 15 to 20 minutes.

Pro-Tip: While these times are generally accurate, it’s always wise to double-check the official schedule on the day of your travel, especially for late-night or early-morning flights.

4. Ticket Prices & How to Buy？

How to Buy: You can first refer to the maglev operation schedule to see which train you want to take, and then go to the ticket office at your starting maglev station to buy tickets of the day.

1). Station Counters / Ticket Windows

• Location:

  • Longyang Road Station: Maglev Ticket Office (on the second floor, typically near Exit 3 of the Metro station).

  • Pudong International Airport Station: Maglev Ticket Center (on the second floor of the terminal building).

• Pros: This is the best place to purchase discounted tickets (like the Same-Day Air Ticket Discount), as staff can verify your documents. They accept cash, credit/debit cards, Alipay, and WeChat Pay.

• Remember: To get the 40 CNY discount, you must show the staff your same-day air ticket/electronic order or use your Shanghai Public Transport Card.

2). Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATMs)

• Location: Self-service machines are available at both Maglev stations.

• Payment: Typically supports QR code payment (Alipay/WeChat Pay) and bank cards.

• Note: While convenient for purchasing full-fare tickets (50 CNY), the machines may have limitations in verifying certain documents for the 40 CNY discounted ticket. If you have a same-day flight, it is generally safer to use the manned ticket window to ensure you get the discount.

3). Online Platforms

• You can pre-purchase vouchers through various travel platforms (e.g., Klook, Trip.com). You will then need to exchange the voucher for a physical ticket at a station's ticket machine or counter before boarding.

• Note: Online purchases are usually for the standard tickets and require an in-person exchange.

💡Tips:

• A child under 130 cm. in height is not allowed to take maglev by himself. He can enjoy a free maglev trip when being taken by an adult passenger.
• A passenger presenting the air ticket of the same day enjoys a 20% discount when buying a maglev ticket. Either paper air tickets or electronic ones are applicable.
• Maglev Pass is maglev through ticket offered by Great Wall Credit Card issued by Bank of China. It is a favorable electronic ticket product for passengers who frequently take the maglev trains.

Step-by-Step: How to Ride the Shanghai Maglev

It’s a seamless process. Just follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Locate the Maglev Station

• At Pudong Airport (PVG): Follow the signs for the "Maglev Train" (磁浮列车). The station is located on the 2nd floor of the terminal area, easily accessible from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. It is a short walk from baggage claim.

• At Longyang Road Station: Look for the Maglev station building, which is connected to the Shanghai Metro station (Lines 2, 7, 16, and 18). Follow the signs, usually leading you to the 2nd floor of the Maglev terminal.

Step 2: Purchase Your Ticket

Go to the ticket area, which has both manned counters and self-service vending machines.

• Manned Counter (Recommended for Discounts):

  • Best for: Buying the 40 CNY discounted ticket (by showing your same-day flight ticket/boarding pass or using the Shanghai Public Transport Card).

  • Payment: Accepts cash (RMB), foreign bank cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc., may be accepted via tap-and-go systems), Alipay, and WeChat Pay.

• Vending Machine:

  • Best for: Quick purchase of the standard 50 CNY single ticket or 80 CNY round trip ticket.

  • Payment: Accepts digital payments (Alipay/WeChat Pay) and possibly bank cards.

Keep your ticket! You will need the physical card or the QR code/smart card to exit the station at your destination.

Step 3: Go Through Security Check

Before entering the paid area, all passengers and luggage must pass through a standard airport-style security check (X-ray machine). This is routine for all public transport in China.

Step 4: Enter the Turnstile

• Present your ticket at the entry gate:

  • Maglev Card Ticket: Tap the plastic card on the sensor.

  • Shanghai Public Transport Card: Tap the card on the sensor (this automatically charges the discounted 40 CNY fare).

  • QR Code: Scan the code (if purchased via a transport app/online platform).

Step 5: Wait for Your Train

• Once through the gate, follow the signs and take the escalator or stairs up to the platform level (usually 3rd floor).

• Trains typically run every 15 to 20 minutes during operating hours. Check the electronic screen for the next departure time.

• The platform is typically gated. Staff will open the access to the track just before the train arrives.

• Wait behind the safety line.

Step 6: Board the Train

• Once the platform is opened, board the train quickly. The doors close 1 minute before departure.

• Storage: Place large suitcases on the dedicated luggage racks at the ends of the carriage, and use the overhead compartments for smaller bags.

• Seats: The Maglev does not have reserved seating. Find any available ordinary seat (or VIP seat if you purchased a VIP ticket).

• Enjoy the ride! The 30 km journey takes about 7 to 8 minutes. Watch the digital speed display in the carriage, which often peaks at 300 km/h or occasionally 431 km/h depending on the time of day.

Step 7: Exit the Station

• Upon arrival at the destination station (either PVG or Longyang Road), follow the signs toward the Exit/Transfer gates.

• Exit Gate: Insert your Maglev card ticket into the slot at the turnstile (it will be collected by the machine) or tap your Public Transport Card to exit the paid area.

• Transfer:

  • At Longyang Road: Follow signs for the Shanghai Metro (Lines 2, 7, 16, or 18) or the Taxi/Bus stands to continue into the city.

  • At PVG: Follow signs for Airport Check-in/Terminals to catch your flight.

Is the Maglev Worth It? A Detailed Comparison

This is the most common question travelers ask. The answer depends on your priorities. Let’s compare it to other options.

Maglev vs. Metro vs. Taxi: A Detailed Comparison

💡Note on Speed: While the Maglev reaches 300/430 km/h, the journey is only 30 km, so the actual time saved for the total journey (Maglev + Transfer vs. Metro all the way) is often 15-30 minutes, not a full hour.

When the Maglev is WORTH IT

• For the Experience/Novelty: If you are a train enthusiast, a technology lover, or simply want to say you rode the fastest commercial train in the world, it is absolutely worth the ¥40–¥50 for the unique 8-minute thrill.

• You are in a Rush, but NOT Going Door-to-Door: If you are racing to meet someone at Longyang Road, or need to connect quickly to another part of the Metro system and every minute counts, the Maglev is the fastest way to get off airport property.

• You Have a Same-Day Flight Ticket/Smart Card: The discounted ¥40 fare makes the premium much less painful compared to the ¥8–¥9 Metro fare.

• You Have Light Luggage: Transferring from the Maglev to the Metro at Longyang Road is much easier with just a backpack or a small roller bag.

When the Maglev is NOT Worth It

• Your Final Destination is Far from Longyang Road: The time saved on the 8-minute Maglev ride can be negated by the time spent walking, waiting for, and riding the connecting Metro line, especially if your destination is in the west side of the city.

• You are on a Tight Budget: At least ¥40–¥50 for 8 minutes is a significant premium compared to the ¥7–¥9 Metro ticket for the entire trip.

• You Have Heavy or Excessive Luggage: Navigating a mandatory transfer at the busy Longyang Road hub with multiple large bags can be a hassle.

• You Arrive Late at Night: The Maglev usually stops service around 9:40 PM. The Metro Line 2 (running until around 10:30 PM) or a taxi are the only options for late arrivals.

Connecting to Shanghai Metro & Nearby Attractions

This's an essential part of the journey! The Longyang Road Station (龙阳路站) is not just the Maglev terminus; it's a massive, key interchange hub for the Shanghai Metro system, offering access to four major lines.

Connecting to the Shanghai Metro

Longyang Road is famously Shanghai's first five-line interchange hub, connecting the Maglev line with four Metro lines.

Nearby Attractions & Key Metro Access

Longyang Road Station is a practical hub for the Pudong area, giving you quick access to convention centers and parks, and easy connections to the city's highlights.

1. Immediate/Nearby Attractions (Via Short Ride/Walk)

2. Major Downtown Attractions (Via Direct Metro Line 2)

Essential Travel Tips and FAQs

1. Should I buy the VIP ticket?

The Standard Class is already comfortable. The VIP ticket primarily offers slightly larger seating and access to a small waiting area. It is generally not necessary unless you prioritize minimal crowds and maximum comfort.

2. Can I use a QR code or Shanghai Public Transport Card?

Yes, payment methods are generally quite flexible. You can use major mobile payment apps (like WeChat Pay or Alipay) or the Shanghai Public Transportation Card for payment at the turnstiles.

3. Is it worth taking the Maglev instead of the Metro?

Yes, if:

• You are short on time (it saves about 40 minutes compared to Metro Line 2).

• You want the experience of riding the world's fastest commercial train.

No, if:

• Budget is your primary concern (Metro Line 2 is significantly cheaper).

• You are traveling extremely late, as the Metro runs slightly later than the Maglev.

4. Where is the Maglev Museum?

A free-entry Shanghai Maglev Museum is located at the Longyang Road Maglev Station. It’s a great way to spend 15-30 minutes learning about the magnetic levitation technology before or after your ride.

5. Does the Maglev go to the city center (The Bund, People's Square)?

No. It goes to Longyang Road Station. From there, you must transfer to Metro Line 2 (~15-20 minute ride) to reach the city center.

6. Does the Maglev run 24 hours?

No, the Shanghai Maglev Train does not run 24 hours a day. 06:45–21:40 only.

7. Is there a discount for children?

Children under 130 cm travel free when accompanied by an adult.

8. Is the Maglev safe?

Yes, absolutely. It has an impeccable safety record since its opening in 2004. The dedicated guideway and advanced control systems make it extremely safe.

9. Can I use my foreign credit card to buy tickets?

Generally, no. Ticket machines and counters do not typically accept international credit cards. It’s best to use cash, a transport card, or a Chinese mobile payment app.

10. Does the Maglev go to Hongqiao Airport (SHA)?

No. The Maglev only connects Pudong Airport (PVG) to Longyang Road. To travel between PVG and Hongqiao Airport (SHA), you should take Metro Line 2 (about 1.5 hours) or a taxi/bus.

11. How much luggage can I bring on the Maglev?

There are no strict weight or size limits for luggage within reason. Most travelers bring their standard check-in suitcases and carry-ons without any issue.

12. What happens if I miss my train?

Don’t worry! Your ticket is valid for any train on the day of purchase. Just wait for the next one, which will be along in 15-20 minutes.

The Shanghai Maglev is more than just an airport transfer; it’s an exhilarating introduction to a city that prides itself on speed, innovation, and efficiency. For a reasonable price (especially with the flight discount), you get to experience a world-class technological marvel and save a significant amount of time. For any visitor to Shanghai, taking the Maglev is a highly recommended, unforgettable experience. Enjoy the ride.