Shanghai Metro is the default transport choice for most independent visitors. You can use a single-journey ticket, a transport card, a supported mobile QR code or an eligible contactless international bank card; official Shanghai guidance says contactless payment is available at more than 500 stations.
Pick a payment option
The lowest-friction choice depends on how often you ride. A single ticket avoids app setup, while direct contactless entry can be convenient for a compatible chip card. The Shanghai Metro Daduhui app and Suishenxing (SH MaaS) provide QR-based options, and staffed station service centers can sell tickets using supported international cards.
- Contactless Visa, Mastercard or UnionPay at supported gates
- Single-journey ticket
- Shanghai Public Transportation Card
- Shanghai Metro Daduhui app
- Suishenxing (SH MaaS) transport code
Use the same card at entry and exit
Shanghai uses distance-based fares. Tap or scan the same payment medium at both gates so the system can calculate and close the journey. Do not enter with a physical card and attempt to leave using the same card stored in a phone wallet; the system may treat them as different tokens.
Pudong and Hongqiao are different hubs
Pudong International Airport, Hongqiao International Airport and Hongqiao Railway Station serve different parts of the transport network. Check the airport code, terminal and operating hours before departure. The Airport Link Line, metro and maglev serve different travel patterns and should not be treated as identical services.
Plan the correct station exit
Central Shanghai stations can have many exits spread across large blocks. Save the exit number for your hotel or attraction, not only the station name. The Bund itself is reached by a surface walk from nearby stations, so allow more time than a metro map suggests.
Know when a day pass makes sense
Official Shanghai information lists one-day and three-day metro passes, while newer visitor products may combine public transport and attractions. Compare the current price and exclusions with the number of rides you will actually take; the maglev is commonly excluded from ordinary metro passes.
Keep a non-app fallback
Bring a physical bank card and some RMB even if your mobile QR code works in testing. A staffed service center can help when identity verification, mobile data, battery level or a foreign-card authorization causes trouble.
Official sources
Sources checked 14 August 2026. Reconfirm time-sensitive details before departure.
Frequently asked questions
Can I tap a foreign card on the Shanghai Metro?
Yes, official Shanghai guidance says eligible contactless Visa, Mastercard and UnionPay cards can be tapped at supported gates across more than 500 stations. Issuer and card settings still apply.
Can foreign bank cards buy Shanghai Metro tickets?
Yes. Official city guidance says service centers across the network have POS facilities for supported domestic and international cards.
Is the Shanghai maglev included in a metro day pass?
Official guidance says the ordinary one-day metro pass excludes the maglev. Check the current product conditions before purchase.
Which Shanghai transport app is best for foreigners?
Shanghai Metro Daduhui focuses on metro travel. Suishenxing (SH MaaS) integrates metro, bus, ferry and other services. A single ticket or contactless bank card may be simpler for a short visit.