Getting Around Puxi: A Visitor's Guide
Puxi is the historic center of Shanghai and home to major attractions including the Bund, Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Grand Theatre, and Shanghai Zoo. As a visitor, you'll find multiple transportation options to navigate the district and connect to other parts of the city.
The Metro System
The Shanghai Metro is the backbone of public transportation in Puxi. Most metro lines serve Puxi, with the exceptions of Lines 5, 6, 16, 17, and Pujiang. The metro is frequent, affordable, and the primary way most visitors move around the district.
To use the metro, you can purchase single journey tickets at station ticket windows or machines, or invest in a Shanghai Public Transportation Card, which works on metro lines and also qualifies you for discounts on other transport modes like the Maglev train. Single metro journeys are very affordable.
Buses and Other Public Transport
An extensive bus network operates throughout Puxi, providing an alternative to the metro. Bus routes connect residential areas, commercial centers, and attractions. Buses are economical but may be slower than the metro during peak hours due to traffic.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
Taxis are widely available throughout Puxi and can be hailed on the street or at designated taxi stands. They offer a convenient option if you have luggage, are traveling with a group, or prefer direct point-to-point service. Be prepared for variable wait times, especially during rush hours or late evening.
Walkability
Many areas of Puxi are pedestrian-friendly, particularly around major attractions and commercial districts. The Bund and surrounding neighborhoods are highly walkable, and you can explore much of central Puxi on foot. However, some districts are more spread out, so combining walking with metro travel is often most efficient.
Arriving from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport is located in Puxi, making it convenient for visitors arriving at this airport. Several transportation options connect the airport to central Puxi:
- Metro: Metro Line 2 serves Terminal 2 directly and connects to People's Square and central Shanghai. Line 10 also serves both terminals and provides access to different parts of the city. Service runs from early morning (05:35) until late evening (22:50), making it the most reliable option for most arrival times.
- Night Bus: If you arrive after the metro closes, a night bus operates from Terminal 2 to Jing'an Temple, People's Square, and Lujiazui between 22:30 and approximately 45 minutes after the last flight arrives. Fares are ¥10 or ¥16 depending on destination.
- Public Buses: Limited numbered bus routes connect the airport to various parts of Puxi, including routes to Shanghai Zoo and other areas. These are budget-friendly options.
- Taxi: A taxi can cover the distance to central Puxi in roughly 20 minutes under good traffic conditions, though allow extra time for the taxi queue, particularly if arriving in the evening. Fares typically range from moderate to slightly expensive.
Note that Hongqiao has two terminals. Terminal 2 is served directly by metro lines, while Terminal 1 is served by Line 10 and a free shuttle bus. Confirm your terminal before arriving at the airport, as the shuttle between terminals operates on a half-hourly schedule.
Arriving from Shanghai Pudong International Airport
While Pudong Airport is Shanghai's main international gateway and located on the east side of the Huangpu River, visitors can reach Puxi using several methods:
- Metro Line 2: The airport is directly on Metro Line 2, which crosses into Puxi and connects to People's Square and other central locations. This is the most straightforward option.
- Maglev Train: The Maglev terminates at Longyang Road station, where you can connect to metro lines that serve Puxi. Single tickets are affordable, with discounts available if you have an airline ticket or public transportation card.
- Airport Bus: Direct bus service connects Pudong Airport to various destinations; confirm routes to Puxi-based hotels or attractions.
- Taxi: Taxis are available but expect higher fares for the longer distance from Pudong to central Puxi.
If you're changing between Hongqiao and Pudong airports, Metro Line 2 connects both, though the journey takes time. The new Airport Link Line, opening in 2025, will offer a 40-minute connection between the two airports but passes south of the city center.
Practical Tips
- Purchase a Shanghai Public Transportation Card at the airport or major metro stations for convenience and discounts on some services.
- Free tourist maps in English are available at both airports—grab one as you exit.
- The metro is most efficient for moving between distant points in Puxi, especially during rush hours when traffic slows buses and taxis.
- Walking is ideal for exploring specific neighborhoods and major attractions, but combine it with metro travel to cover greater distances.
- Allow extra time for taxi journeys during evening rush hours and after 19:00 when airport queues are longer.