Shanghai Train Station
City: Shanghai | Chinese Name: 上海
Shanghai Railway Station Guide: Trains, Metro Transfers & Tourist Tips
Shanghai Railway Station (上海火车站) is one of the oldest and most centrally located train stations in China. Unlike the ultra-modern Hongqiao Station, this station sits in the heart of the city and primarily handles traditional trains, plus a few high-speed routes to nearby provinces.
This guide is designed for international tourists using Shanghai Railway Station — covering everything from ticketing and metro access to station layout and travel advice.
📍 Location & How to Get There
Address: 303 Moling Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, China
By Metro:
- Line 1: Runs north-south through the city
- Line 3: Links the station to Hongqiao West and South Railway Station
- Line 4: Circular route that loops around central Shanghai
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing:
The station is centrally located, making taxi rides from most downtown hotels convenient (15–30 minutes depending on traffic).
🗺 Station Layout & Facilities
The station has multiple buildings and entrances, so it can be confusing. Follow signs for “South Square” or “North Square” depending on your train’s departure terminal.
- Main Hall: Ticket counters and waiting areas
- Platform Level: Where trains arrive and depart
- Metro Level (B1/B2): Access to metro lines 1, 3, and 4
Key Facilities for Tourists:
- Bilingual signage (though less prominent than at Hongqiao)
- Manual ticket counters (passport required)
- Fast food options (KFC, Chinese chains)
- Luggage storage lockers
- Small shops and ATMs
🎫 Buying Train Tickets
As a foreign traveler, you can book train tickets for this station online or at the counter:
1. Buy Online in Advance
- Use platforms like Trip.com
- Enter your passport details
- Collect your ticket at the station using your passport
2. Buy at the Station
- Go to the manual ticket counters (look for English-speaking windows)
- Present your passport
- Pay in cash (RMB) or with a UnionPay card
Note: Automated ticket machines generally cannot be used by foreigners.
🚄 Train Services & Destinations
While most long-distance high-speed trains depart from Hongqiao, Shanghai Railway Station still serves a variety of routes:
| Destination | Train Type | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Beijing | K/Z | ~12–17 hours (overnight trains) |
| Nanjing | G/D/K | ~1.5–3.5 hours |
| Xi’an | Z/T | ~13–16 hours |
| Hangzhou | D/K | ~2–3 hours |
| Chengdu | K | ~36 hours |
Train types like K (Fast), T (Express), and Z (Direct Express) are older but more budget-friendly. Overnight trains often include hard or soft sleeper options.
🔄 Metro Transfers & Local Transport
🚇 Shanghai Metro
Shanghai Railway Station connects directly to Lines 1, 3, and 4. Look for signs underground near both South and North Squares.
- Line 1: To People’s Square and southern districts
- Line 3/4: For access to Hongqiao West, Zhongshan Park, and more
- Metro fare: ~¥3–6 depending on distance
🚌 Buses & Taxis
Multiple local buses and a large taxi queue are available outside both exits, but expect long waits during peak times.
🧳 Tips for International Tourists
- This station is older — signage and organization may feel outdated
- Use online ticket booking to avoid long counter queues
- Be extra cautious of scams outside the station — only take official taxis
- Prepare small cash (ATMs available but limited)
- Allow extra time for boarding — security checks can be slow
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Shanghai Railway Station different from Hongqiao Station?
- Yes. Hongqiao is newer, larger, and handles more high-speed trains. This station is older and more central.
- Can I board a high-speed train here?
- A few D or G trains depart from here, but most high-speed services use Hongqiao Station.
- Is the area around the station safe?
- Yes, but stay alert. Avoid unofficial taxis and keep belongings close.
- How early should I arrive?
- Plan to arrive at least 60–90 minutes before your train departs.
