Shanghai Hongqiao Train Station
City: Shanghai | Chinese Name: 上海虹桥
Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station Guide: High-Speed Trains, Transfers & Tips for Tourists
Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station (上海虹桥火车站) is one of the busiest and most modern train stations in China, serving as a major hub for high-speed trains across the country. Conveniently connected to Hongqiao International Airport and the Shanghai Metro network, it’s the ideal gateway for travelers heading to cities like Hangzhou, Suzhou, Nanjing, and Beijing.
This guide covers everything international visitors need to know about using Shanghai Hongqiao Station — from getting there and buying tickets to navigating the station and catching your train with ease.
📍 Location & How to Get There
Address: No.1500, Shengui Rd, Minhang District, Shanghai, China
By Metro:
- Line 2: Connects to Pudong Airport, People's Square, and Lujiazui
- Line 10: Connects to the city center
- Line 17: Serves Qingpu District and the National Exhibition Center
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing:
Taxis and Didi (China’s version of Uber) are available across Shanghai. Allow extra time during peak hours, especially before holidays.
From Hongqiao Airport (Terminal 2):
The station is directly connected to Terminal 2. It's just a short walk via an indoor corridor, ideal for seamless flight-to-train transfers.
🗺 Station Layout & Facilities
Shanghai Hongqiao is a multi-level mega station with excellent signage in both Chinese and English.
- F1 (Ground Floor): Train platforms, arrivals
- F2 (Upper Level): Ticketing halls, waiting rooms, shops, boarding gates
- B1/B2: Metro entrances, exits, transfers
Key Facilities for Tourists:
- English-language signs throughout
- Luggage storage counters
- Western-style restrooms
- Food courts (McDonald's, KFC, local chains)
- Convenience stores & pharmacies
- VIP lounges and soft-seat waiting rooms
🎫 Buying Train Tickets
You have two main options as a tourist:
1. Buy Online Before You Travel
- Use platforms like Trip.com or China Highlights
- Input your passport details and pay with a foreign card
- Pick up your ticket at the station (bring your passport)
2. Buy at the Station
- Go to the manual ticket windows (look for English signs)
- Show your passport — it's required for all foreign travelers
- Pay in cash or UnionPay (foreign cards often not accepted)
Note: Foreigners cannot use the automated ticket machines unless they have a Chinese ID.
🚄 How to Board a Train from Hongqiao
- Arrive Early – At least 60–90 minutes before departure
- Pass Security Check – All bags scanned; passport and ticket required
- Go to the Waiting Hall – Find your gate on the digital screen
- Boarding Begins 15–30 Minutes Before Departure – Be on time!
- Show Passport & Ticket Again at gate and platform
🗺 Major Destinations & High-Speed Routes
| Destination | Train Type | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Hangzhou | G/D | ~1 hour |
| Suzhou | G/D | ~30 minutes |
| Nanjing | G/D | ~1.5–2 hours |
| Beijing South | G | ~4.5–6 hours |
| Wuhan | G | ~4.5 hours |
| Guangzhou South | G | ~7–8 hours |
Most trains are G (fastest) or D (still high-speed). Choose from 2nd Class, 1st Class, or Business Class.
🔄 Airport & Metro Transfers
✈️ Hongqiao Airport (SHA)
Terminal 2 is directly connected via indoor walkway (5–10 minutes). Ideal for same-day flight and train transfers.
🚇 Shanghai Metro
- Entrances on B1 level of the station
- Line 2 and Line 10 serve most downtown destinations
- Fare: approx. ¥3–6; service ends around 11 PM
🧳 Tips for International Travelers
- Download WeChat and Alipay – widely used for payments
- Use Google Maps + Apple Translate – or Baidu Maps (in Chinese)
- Scan your passport to collect tickets — spelling must match
- Expect crowds during weekends and holidays
- Keep luggage within 160cm total dimensions if possible
- Recommended apps: Trip.com, Rail Ninja, China Train Booking
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a foreign credit card to buy tickets at the station?
- Usually not. Bring RMB cash or book online in advance.
- Is there Wi-Fi at Hongqiao Station?
- Not reliably. Consider a local SIM card or portable hotspot.
- Are announcements in English?
- Yes. But signage and apps are more reliable for navigation.
- Can I bring large suitcases?
- Yes, but space is limited in 2nd Class. Travel light if possible.
