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2019
20
September
14 Hours in Shanghai: Is it Worth Leaving the Airport on a Layover?
20
September
Question:
Humans say...
Zakiya
I'd suggest to venture out. The Airport does'nt have much to offer for such a long layover. (Spoken from experience when I had a layover for the same amount of time and stayed. I regretted it.)
Steve
During daylight hours, the Jade Buddha Temple is beautiful. There is also shopping nearby. If you are there after dark, the Bund walkway is beautiful. There are fine restaurants walking distance from the Bund.
Laura
Are cabs easy to get to and from the airport...?
Nahid
Laura take the maglev! It's the fastest operating train in the world and will get you to a closer subway station in 8 minutes.
John
Laura The bullet train is awesome.
Steve
Laura they can be expensive. China has a uber type taxi service called didi. It might take a bit to get set up bc payment is online. The maglev and transit might be best if you don’t have much baggage to carry.
Marina
China Town nothing compare to North American
Alicia
I would definitely recommend venturing out of the airport and exploring the city! Must-see's would be the Bund, Yu Yuan Garden, Xintiandi and Tianzifang.
Allison
Make sure you have the visa though!
Correction: sorry you don’t need a visa for 72 hours as long as you have an outbound flight.
Nadia
Allison do you know if the rules have changed for Canadians? I thought you can enter China without a visa as long as you're not staying longer than 72 hours and have a ticket for an outbound flight? I'm flying thru Shanghai in december and also have a long layover
Nadia
Thanks that's helpful as I've read conflicting information... government of Canada site updated the rules...reads very vague.
Jeff
It's actually 144 hours now, or 6 full days.
Peggy
Wow good to know!
Lu
just budget a lot of time returning to the airport and customs....not the fastest or easiest to navigate in the world , could take a long time
Shawn
We had a 12 hour layover in Shanghai last year and it was more than enough time to check some of the sites out. Store your luggage, get a visa on arrival, hop on the Maglev and enjoy!
John
Well, while it's an experience (431 kms/hour) itself the Maglev goes between 2 stops. It's not a hop on, hop off tourist bus. I would forgo this and take a taxi (but it depends on your budget as well). Nanjing Road and the The Bund let you get a taste of the culture, shopping, restaurants and sights (The Bund at night is an awesome walk). If you're more looking for Museums, I can't help as that's not really my jam. Ohhh, Peking duck is a great option for a meal while there.
Jacinda
Do not waste this opportunity by staying at the airport! Hire a guide to pick you up and take you to a few stops. By having a guide with transportation, you will take the guesswork out of getting around ...visit the Bund, Pearl Tower, The Bottle Opener, Yuyuan Garden, and maybe a trip into one of the markets. Shanghai is a great city - after spending a few hours you will likely want to plan to go back!
Robert
I hear the Chinese food is good
John
Robert apparently it's just called food there though.
Antoinet
media1.tenor.co
Beena
Find out if u r allowed to leave the airport while in transit
David
It will blow your freaking mind.
Shaun
Do the maglev train, just because. I believe it's the fastest in the world? Or at least in the top few. Then take local transit into town and do some sight seeing.
Eris
you will absolutely need a transit visa to clear customs. depending on how long that takes (recently some people experienced 6 hours wait) you may only have a couple hours to explore, but yes for sure try to see something cool. the subway from airport is easy to the Bund if you want to see classic shanghai cool spots or get something to eat. Stay away from Western food and go for local fare. its cheap and delicious
A.I. says...
How to Spend a 14 Hour Layover in Shanghai Pudong International Airport
A 14 hour layover at Shanghai Pudong International Airport can be a blessing or a curse, depending on how you choose to spend it. While the airport itself offers various amenities and services, venturing out into the city can provide a unique and enriching experience.
Stay in the Airport
If you decide to stay within the airport premises, you'll have access to a range of facilities and services to help pass the time comfortably. Here are a few options:
- Relax in the lounges: Consider purchasing a day pass to one of the airport lounges, where you can enjoy comfortable seating, complimentary food and beverages, and even shower facilities.
- Shop and dine: Explore the numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes offering a variety of local and international cuisine, as well as duty-free shopping opportunities.
- Catch up on sleep: If you need to rest, the airport has designated sleeping areas and transit hotels where you can book a room for a few hours.
- Explore the airport exhibits: Check out the art installations, exhibitions, and cultural displays scattered throughout the terminals.
Venture Out into Shanghai
With 14 hours at your disposal, you can also consider venturing out into the vibrant city of Shanghai. However, keep in mind that you'll need to factor in travel time to and from the airport, as well as the time required for immigration and customs clearance.
- Visit the Bund: Take a taxi or the Maglev train to the iconic Bund waterfront area, where you can admire the stunning skyline, stroll along the promenade, and visit nearby attractions like the Yu Garden and the Shanghai Tower.
- Explore the French Concession: Immerse yourself in the charming tree-lined streets, cafes, and boutiques of the French Concession, a historic neighborhood that offers a glimpse into Shanghai's past.
- Shop at Nanjing Road: Experience the bustling commercial heart of Shanghai by visiting Nanjing Road, a famous pedestrian shopping street lined with department stores, boutiques, and street food vendors.
- Indulge in local cuisine: Shanghai is renowned for its delicious cuisine. Consider joining a food tour or visiting a local market to sample authentic dishes like xiaolongbao (steamed soup dumplings) and shengjianbao (pan-fried buns).
Remember to plan your time carefully, considering transportation, immigration procedures, and unforeseen delays. Additionally, ensure that you have the necessary travel documents and a valid visa (if required) before venturing out of the airport.
Whichever option you choose, a 14 hour layover in Shanghai Pudong International Airport can be an exciting and memorable experience, allowing you to explore the bustling city or simply relax and recharge before your next flight.
Sites
Laura
I have a 14 hour layover in Shanghai Pudong International Airport in January... any suggestions/advise/recommendations? Should I stay in the airport? Venture out? Where to?