Shanghai Transportation Card: Your Tourist Travel Guide
What is the Shanghai Transportation Card?
The Shanghai Transportation Card, also known as the Shanghai Public Transportation Card (上海公共交通卡), is a rechargeable card that allows you to pay for various forms of public transport in Shanghai, including the metro, buses, and even ferries. It’s a convenient way to navigate the city without the need for cash or individual tickets. For tourists, it simplifies travel and can save time and hassle.
Benefits of Using the Card
The Shanghai public transportation card offers several advantages:
- Convenience: Eliminates the need to purchase individual tickets for each ride.
- Time-Saving: Speeds up the boarding process, especially during peak hours.
- Wide Acceptance: Accepted on the metro, buses, and ferries throughout Shanghai.
- Potential Discounts: Some routes or services may offer discounted fares when using the card.
- Easy to Top Up: Simple and accessible top-up methods are available throughout the city.
- For a complete overview, see our main guide to navigating Shanghai.
Where to Buy the Card
You can purchase the Shanghai transportation card at several convenient locations:
Locations (Metro Stations, Convenience Stores)
- Metro Stations: Most metro stations have customer service centers where you can purchase a new card. Look for the signs indicating “Public Transportation Card Sales.”
- Alipay or Wechat: Use mini-program on the payment apps, get your card for free. Charge money and then you can scan the QR code to access public transportations such as metro or bus.
How to Top Up the Card
Keeping your Shanghai transportation card topped up is essential for uninterrupted travel.
Top-Up Methods (Cash, Mobile Payment)
- Cash: The most common method is to top up with cash at metro station customer service centers or convenience stores. Simply hand the card and the desired amount to the staff.
- Mobile Payment: Some metro stations offer top-up options via mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay. However, this typically requires a local bank account or verified account.
Using the Card on Different Transportation Systems
The Shanghai transportation card is versatile and can be used on various modes of transport.
Metro, Bus, Ferry
- Metro: Simply tap the card at the entrance and exit gates of the metro system. The fare will be automatically deducted based on the distance traveled.
- Bus: Tap the card on the reader as you board the bus. For some routes, you may need to tap again as you exit.
- Ferry: The card is also accepted on most ferry routes across the Huangpu River. Tap the card as you enter the ferry terminal.
Refunding the Card
If you no longer need your Shanghai transportation card, you can get a refund for the remaining balance and the deposit (if applicable).
Refund Locations and Procedures
- Refund Locations: Refunds are typically processed at designated metro station customer service centers. Inquire at any station for the nearest refund location.
- Procedures: Present your card at the customer service counter. You will receive a refund for the remaining balance on the card, minus a small processing fee. Be sure to bring your passport or other form of identification.
Alternatives to the Transportation Card (Mobile Payment)
While the Shanghai transportation card is convenient, mobile payment options are increasingly popular. Apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay offer convenient QR code-based payment systems that work on the metro and buses. However, setting these up can be more complex for tourists, often requiring a local bank account. Another alternative is using ride-hailing services; you can learn more in our guide to Didi Chuxing in Shanghai: A Foreigner’s Guide to Using China’s Ride-Hailing App.
For more information on getting around Shanghai, check out our guide to Navigating Shanghai: A Comprehensive Guide to Intra-City Transportation for Tourists.
