Among Shanghai's many transportation options, the metro system stands out as a convenient and efficient way to traverse the city's vast urban landscape. 

Shanghai has one of the world's largest metro networks. As of Nov 30, there are 20 subway lines in operation (including Maglev Train), totaling 837 kilometers.  

The Shanghai Metro employs a distance-based fare system and the ticket fares range from 3 yuan ($0.41) for distances of less than 6 kilometers, with an extra 1 yuan for each additional 10 km.

There are several options for you to take the metro:

 

1. Metro Daduhui app

Using the Shanghai Metro Daduhui app is the most convenient way to take the metro.

If you have an Alipay or WeChat Pay account, you can download the Shanghai Metro Daduhui which supports Alipay and WeChat Pay or simply open the Shanghai Metro online service on Alipay and WeChat, then you can take the metro and make a transfer by simply scanning the QR code.

If you don't have an Alipay or WeChat Pay account, the Shanghai Metro Daduhui App and MasterCard work together to enable international passengers to use their MasterCard cards for transport in Shanghai.

Cardholders can simply link their MasterCard cards to the Shanghai Metro Daduhui App and enjoy the same travel experience as locals.

2. Single Ticket

In the Shanghai Metro, a Single Ticket works as a one-time use ticket that allows you to travel between two stations. You can purchase a Single Ticket at the ticket vending machines. The fare for the Single Ticket is calculated based on the distance between your starting station and destination station.

Shanghai Metro has expanded its POS card payment machine service to all metro stations across the city. This means international bank cardholders can now buy tickets using POS machines at any metro station. The POS machines accept a variety of card types, including Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay and Discover.

3. Shanghai Public Transport Card

This stored value card can be loaded onto a mobile terminal such as a smart phone and watch. It can be used to take any metro line in Shanghai. You can simply swipe the cards or your mobile terminals to enter or exit the station.

4. Suishenxing app

With the Suishenxing (SH MaaS) app, you can get an all-in-one code on your smart phone for buses, ferries and subway lines in the city. The app supports mobile payment services such as Alipay, WeChat Pay, and UnionPay Quick Pass. International bank cards including Visa, Mastercard, Discover Card, Diners Club, and JCB can also be linked to the app. 

The all-in-one transport code gives foreign commuters the same discounts as local residents.

5. One-Day Pass

One-Day pass holders can take the metro (except for the maglev train) unlimited times within 24 hours since the first entry from a station. The pass costs 18 yuan and you don't need to return it after use.

6. Three-Day Pass

With this pass, passengers can take the metro (except the maglev) unlimited times within 72 hours of the first use. The pass is sold for 45 yuan and could be bought at any ticket booths at metro stations. It won't be recycled at the gate when you exit.

7. Maglev and Metro Pass

This is a pass for both the metro and the maglev train. It contains a one-day metro pass and a single or round-trip maglev ticket.

Passholders can take unlimited metro rides within 24 hours and a single or round maglev trip (economy class). It won't be recycled at the gate when you exit.

 

Concessions:

• Passengers can enjoy a 1-yuan discount when entering a metro station within 120 minutes of swiping their cards on a bus.
• Holders of Public Transportation Cards can enjoy a 10 percent discount if they have spent over 70 yuan on taking the metro over a calendar month.

 

Now, hop on a metro train to begin your Shanghai journey!

 

Source: Shanghai Metro website