If you're landing at Pudong Airport and want to reach the city fast, the Shanghai Maglev Train is the best choice. It’s one of the fastest trains in the world and takes only about 8 minutes to get to Longyang Road station.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to take the Maglev, where it goes, how much it costs, and what to expect. Whether it’s your first time in Shanghai or you just want a quick way into town, this guide will help you get started.
What Is the Shanghai Maglev Train?
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 Train is a high-speed train that runs between Pudong International Airport and Longyang Road in the city.
When Was the Shanghai Maglev Train Built?
It was opened in 2004 and was the first commercial maglev (magnetic levitation) train in the world.
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 into 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.
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Maglev Train Shanghai Opening Hours
Direction | First Train | Last Train | Frequency |
Longyang Road → Pudong Airport | 06:45 | 21:40 | 15–20 min |
Pudong Airport → Longyang Road | 07:02 | 21:42 | 15–20 min |
Plus, there are two extra late-night trains departing Pudong Airport at 22:15 and 22:40, heading to Longyang Road only.
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.
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Shanghai Maglev Train Price
Ticket Type | One-Way (¥/S$) | Round-Trip (¥/S$) | Notes |
Economy | ¥50 / S$9.30 | ¥80 / S$14.90 | Round-trip valid for 7 days |
VIP | ¥100 / S$18.60 | ¥160 / S$29.80 | Wider seats, more comfort |
Discounted Economy | ¥40 / S$7.50 | – | 20% off with same-day flight ticket |
Maglev + Metro Pass | ¥55 / S$10.20 | ¥85 / S$15.80 | Includes 24-hour unlimited metro use |
Child under 130 cm | Free | Free | Must travel with an adult |
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?
Where to Buy?
✅ 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
✅ Online:
- Trip.com
- WeChat or Alipay (search “上海磁悬浮” mini program)
- 12306 app (Chinese railway app, limited support for foreign cards)
After purchase, you will get a QR code or pickup code to scan at the station gate or machine.
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 Shanghai?
- After purchase, follow signs and go up to the 3rd-floor platform via the escalator.
- Wait behind the safety line. Staff and signs announce boarding, and doors close 1 minute before departure.
- Present your ticket, QR code, or tap your card at the gate.
- Keep the ticket throughout your ride—you’ll need it to exit.
- At Longyang Road Station, present your ticket or tap out.
- From there, you can transfer to Metro Lines 2, 7, 16, or 18, or grab a taxi or bus to continue your journey
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.
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Is It Worth It? (vs Metro or Taxi)
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:
Feature | Maglev Train | Metro | Taxi |
Travel Time | ~8 minutes (30 km) | 45–60 minutes | 45–60 minutes (depends on traffic) |
Price (one-way) | ~S$9.30 (¥50) | S$1.50–3.00 | S$25–40 |
Route | Airport ↔ Longyang Road only | Airport ↔ Downtown direct | Door-to-door anywhere |
Experience | Smooth, fast, unique | Crowded, slow, practical | Private, comfortable |
Operating Hours | 6:45 AM – 9:40 PM | Early morning – late night | 24/7 |
Convenience | Fast but limited connections | Cheap and frequent | Flexible but costlier |
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, metro or taxi from airport could be easier.
Riding the Shanghai Maglev Train is a unique experience and the fastest way to get from Pudong Airport into the city. Whether you choose it for speed, comfort, or just to try something new, it offers a smooth and quick ride unlike any other. Just remember to plan ahead, buy your tickets easily either online or at the station, and enjoy the thrill of travelling on one of the world’s fastest trains. Next time you’re in Shanghai, don’t miss out on this modern marvel!