The Shanghai Maglev high-speed Train is the pinnacle of modern transportation technology, offering travelers the fastest and most efficient way to connect Pudong International Airport with central Shanghai. Operating since 2003, this engineering marvel reaches speeds of up to 430 km/h (267 mph), making it the world's fastest commercial Maglev train in operation. With its magnetic levitation technology, passengers experience an ultra-smooth, whisper-quiet journey covering 30 kilometers in just 8 minutes; a journey that would take significantly longer by conventional transport. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, understanding the Shanghai Maglev route, booking process, and onboard amenities ensures you make the most of this extraordinary transport option.
Why choose the Shanghai Maglev High- Speed Train
The Shanghai Maglev high-speed train offers unparalleled advantages for airport transfers that conventional transportation simply cannot match. Here are some reasons to choose this train for your journey!
Unmatched speed and efficiency
The journey time, just 8 minutes from Pudong Airport to Longyang Road Station, makes it exponentially faster than Metro Line 2 (approximately 50-60 minutes), taxis (40+ minutes depending on traffic), or airport buses (44-90 minutes).
Environmentally friendly technology
The train makes no direct emissions during operation and has significantly less energy consumption than conventional transport. Noise levels remain remarkably low, measuring only about 65 decibels even at 300 km/h.
Superior comfort and reliability
The journey is an exceptionally smooth, vibration-free ride that is completely unaffected by traffic congestion. You also get to experience modern interiors like spacious seating, overhead luggage racks, and large luggage storage areas near the doors.
Safety record
Guided electromagnetic system makes derailment physically impossible, and the centralized control system prevents collisions, making your high-speed journey super safe.
Excellent connectivity
At Longyang Road Station, passengers can seamlessly transfer to Shanghai Metro Lines 2, 7, 16, and 18, so your journey onward is as easy as getting to the station!
Unique Experience
Riding the world's fastest commercial train offers an unforgettable technological experience that you don’t get to experience often and everywhere in the world.
The Shanghai Maglev high-speed train operates on a dedicated elevated guideway spanning 30 kilometers (approximately 18.6 miles) with a direct, non-stop route between two stations.
Eastern Terminus: Pudong Airport Terminal 1&2 Station
Western Terminus: Longyang Road Station
Pudong Airport Terminal 1&2 Station
Located within Shanghai Pudong International Airport, the Maglev station is connected to the airport terminals via covered walkways on the second floor. Six entrances provide access from different points at Pudong Airport Terminal 1&2 Station.
Longyang Road Station
The Western terminus and a major transportation hub connects five rail systems – Shanghai Maglev Train, Metro Lines 2, 7, 16, and 18. The station also features a shopping center, Huamu Park, and the Shanghai Maglev Museum.
Shanghai Maglev High-Speed Train schedule & frequency
From Longyang Road to Pudong Airport
First train: 6:45am
Last train: 9:40pm
Frequency: Approx. 15-20 minutes
Duration: Approx. 8 minutes
From Pudong Airport to Longyang Road
First train: 7:02am
Last train: 9:42pm
Frequency: Every 20 minutes
Duration: Approx. 8 minutes
Shanghai Maglev Train pass types
Shanghai Maglev one-way train ticket
Route: Pudong Airport Terminal 1&2 Station to/from Longyang Road Station
Price: $7.05 USD (50 RMB) per ticket
Class: Ordinary
What's included: One single journey, air-conditioned carriage, ample luggage storage up to 23 kg, children up to 1.3m height ride free with a paying adult.
Recommended tours:
Shanghai Maglev: One-Way Train Transfers Between Pudong Airport Terminal & Longyang Road Station
Shanghai Maglev vs. Other transport modes: Which is better?
Type of transfer
Price (RMB)
Price (USD)
Journey time
Value
Maglev (one-way)
¥50
$7.05
8 min
Fastest and affordable
Metro Line 2
¥6-8
$0.85-$1.13
50-60 min
Cheap but time-consuming
Taxi
¥150-200
$21-$28
40+ min
Expensive, great for groups
Airport Bus
¥20-30
$2.80-$4.23
44-90 min
Affordable, perfect for when you’re not in a rush
How to book the Shanghai Maglev High-Speed Train ticket
Step 1: Choose your starting point
Select Pudong Airport Terminal 1&2 Station or Longyang Road Station as your starting point & pick your travel date and preferred departure time.
Step 2: Browse the ticket types
Choose your ticket class from the available options.
Step 3: Provide passenger information
Enter the full name(s) of all passengers traveling (ensure it matches your passport if you're an international traveler). Provide your email address and phone number for updates and journey reminders.
Step 4: Choose your payment method
Pay online easily using a credit or debit card, PayPal, or iDEAL.
Step 5: Check your email
Your booking confirmation arrives instantly via email with your unique booking reference number. Easily access your tickets via the booking platform's mobile app or print a physical copy; either method works for station entry!
What to expect on board the Shanghai Maglev High-Speed Train
Each carriage has modern, padded seats with enough legroom for travelers carrying hand luggage.
Seats are arranged in wide rows so the train does not feel cramped, even when it is busy.
Seating works on a first‑come, first‑served basis, and there are clearly marked priority seats for elderly passengers, pregnant passengers, and people with limited mobility.
The train is air-conditioned and stays cool or warm depending on the season.
There are toilets on board.
There are no baby changing facilities installed in the restrooms.
There is step-free access to the toilets for passengers with mobility needs.
Wi-Fi may be available in certain coaches of the train.
There are large floor‑level racks near the doors where passengers can place big suitcases.
Overhead shelves run above the seats and are suitable for smaller bags and backpacks.
The layout keeps bags away from the aisles so passengers can board, sit down, and get off the train without obstacles.
The platforms and train doors are designed to offer step‑free access, which makes boarding easier for wheelchair users and travelers with strollers.
There is space near the doors for wheelchairs or mobility aids without blocking other passengers.
Families can sit together easily, and the smooth, fast ride is generally comfortable for children as well as adults.
There are clear information screens to show the train’s current speed and basic journey updates.
Frequently asked questions about the Shanghai Maglev High-Speed Train
The Shanghai Maglev trains go at a maximum commercial speed of 430 km/h (267 mph), with a real-time display inside the train.
The Shanghai Maglev train takes about 8 minutes to reach the destination, covering 30 km, making it faster than all other airport-city transfers.
Yes, you get up to 23 kg per passenger. Large racks and overhead compartments are available.
Yes, children under the height of 1.3m can travel free with a paying adult.
Yes! You can get a direct transfer to Lines 2, 7, 16, and 18 for access across Shanghai.
Absolutely! The Shanghai Maglev train has had an excellent safety record since 2002. The Maglev technology is so strong that it prevents derailment, and the centralized control system eliminates collision risk.
The Maglev technology uses powerful electromagnets for levitation and propulsion; it eliminates friction for speed, smoothness, and durability.
Wi-Fi is not consistently available on Maglev; use mobile data if required.
Luggage with total measurements (length + width + height) over 1.8m or volume exceeding 0.2 cubic meters will not be allowed on the train.
Luggage weighing more than 23 kg per piece will not be allowed on the train.
Accessibility
The train is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
Additional information
Train doors close 1 minute before departure. For the last train, check-in stops 5 minutes before departure.
Children with a height of 1.3 meters or less (exactly 1.3m included) ride free alongside an adult with a valid ticket (up to 2 kids per ticketed adult).
Maintain your ticket in good condition; tickets that are creased, bent, tampered with, or show damage will not be honored.
Your ticket is valid for one day from the date of departure.
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Airport Transfers
Shanghai Maglev: One-Way Train Transfers Between Pudong Airport Terminal & Longyang Road Station
From Longyang Road Station to Pudong Airport Terminal 1&2 Station
First train: 6:45am
Last train: 9:40pm
Frequency: Every 15-20 minutes
*
From Pudong Airport Terminal 1&2 Station to Longyang Road Station
Shanghai Maglev Train TransferCrafted by Headout, a global experiences brand offering curated tours, tickets & experiences. Discover with ease, book with peace.
