Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport – Complete Travel Guide

Written by Wendy Mo | Updated March 26,2026

Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) is one of the main airports in Shanghai, located about 13 km from the city center. Unlike the rather distant Pudong Airport, it mainly handles the city’s domestic and short-haul international flights, serving as a major “inner-circle hub.” This airport has a super convenient connection to Shanghai metro lines and high-speed rail.

So for most travelers, Hongqiao Airport is particularly ideal since it allows you to start your journey to Shanghai city within 30 minutes, and this article will tell you everything about how to efficiently get around this airport.

Basic Info about Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport

• Chinese name: 上海虹桥机场
• Airport Code (IATA): SHA
• ICAO Code: ZSSS
• Location: Hongqiao International Airport, abbreviated as SHA airport, is located at No.2550, Hongqiao Road, Changning District. About 13 km west of downtown
• Terminals: 2 terminals

T1: Most International& domestic flights (China Eastern Airlines, Air China, Cathay Pacific)

T2: More domestic (Shanghai Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Hainan Airlines)

• Main Function: Domestic hub

regional international flights (Japan, Korea, etc.)

• Official Website: https://www.shanghaiairport.com/

Content Preview

• How to Travel Between Hongqiao Airport and the City Center
• The is title Terminals Guide (T1 vs T2)
• Arrival Essentials (First-Time Traveler’s Guide)
• Tips for Travelers to/from Hongqiao Airport
• FAQ about Hongqiao International Airport
• Travel to Shanghai with China Xian Tour

How to Travel Between Hongqiao Airport and the City Center

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport is located about 13 km west of downtown Shanghai (e.g., the Bund), the closest Shanghai airport to the city. It’s well connected to major attractions and transport hubs, especially compared to Shanghai Pudong International Airport.

Traveling from/to T1

Bus:

Metro:

T1 is only served by Metro line 10. The operating time is:

05:29 – 23:38 (Sun. – Thur.)

05:29 – 00:42 (Fri. & Sat.).

For more detailed information, such as travel time, on this line, please see: Shanghai Metro Line 10.

Taxi:

Taxis running between SHA T1 and the city center throughout the day. Here’s a simple list for reference taxi fares.

• Boarding Point: outside T1 Arrival Gate 1
• Tip: The prices and times are for reference only and apply to daytime off-peak hours. Travel during peak periods or at night may take longer and cost more.

Traveling from/to T2

Bus:

Metro:

T2 is served by both Metro Line 10 and Metro Line 2. The operating times are:

Metro Line 2 to SHA T2: 05:33 ~ 23:58

Metro Line 10 to SHA T2:

05:26 ~ 23:38 (Sun. – Thur.)

05:26 ~ 00:55 (Fri. & Sat.)

For more detailed information, such as travel time, on these lines, please see: Shanghai Metro Line 10 and Shanghai Metro Line 2

Taxi:

Taxis are also running between the SHA T2 and the city center throughout the day. And the fares are similar in time and price to taking a taxi from T1. See the table above.

• Boarding Point: Outside T2 Arrival Gate 4
• Tip: The prices and times are for reference only and apply to daytime off-peak hours. Travel during peak periods or at night may take longer and cost more.

Travel Between Hongqiao Airport and Pudong Airport

If you’re traveling between Hongqiao and Pudong Airports, besides the Metro Line 2, it’s more recommended to take the Shanghai Suburban Railway Airport Link Line. It’s the fastest commuting way between these two airports, which only takes 38 minutes, and costs CNY 26. You can find it in Terminal 2.

How to Avoid Going to the Wrong Terminal

• Always check your airline and flight numberin your ticket/boarding pass. Make sure you’re on the right direction before you arrive at the airport.
• Look up the departure terminal on your airline’s website or the airport’s official flight info page before you leave for the airport.
• Terminal 1 and 2 are NOT connected by shuttles. You’ll have to take Metro Line 10 to travel between these T1 and T2.

Terminals Guide (T1 vs T2)

The two terminals of Hongqiao Airport handle different types of flights and airlines. Knowing which terminal your flight uses can save you time and stress on travel day.

Terminal 1

Serves mainly low-cost carriers such as Spring Airlines and some regional international flights, including short-haul destinations (e.g., Japan, Korea). Compared to Terminal 2, it is smaller and simpler in layout.

• Departure Hall: 2F, 3F, 4F
• Arrival Hall: 1F
• See map of SHA T1: Shanghai Airport (Group) Co Ltd

Terminal 2

It is the main domestic hub at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport. It handles most major airlines (China Eastern, Air China, etc.) for domestic flights across China and some international and regional flights. Terminal 2 is larger and equipped with more modern facilities, including more shops, lounges, dining, and services.

• Departure Hall: 3F, M2
• Arrival Hall: 1F
• Transfer Hall: 2F
• See map of SHA T1: Shanghai Airport (Group) Co Ltd

Facilities in T1 & T2

Tip: Both terminals have accessibility services, and restaurants and cafes are available in all departure and arrival areas.

Arrival Essentials (First-Time Traveler’s Guide)

• Signage & language: Most signs areshown in both Chinese and English. If you’re not sure about anything, find a staff member for help.
• Landing & baggage: Domestic travelers without checked luggage can reach the transport hub directly. Those with luggage should first collect their bags and then go to the transport hub for a taxi, bus, or metro.
• Immigration: International travelers should prepare 30–60 minutes for immigration. The exact time depends on arrival volume. To save your time, have your passport, visa, and arrival card ready.
• Leaving airport: You can choose from Taxi, shuttle bus, or metro.
• Tips: Prepare your destination in Chinese (e.g., type on phone). Check which transport suits your arrival/departure time the best before leaving.
• If you’re going to transfer in Hongqiao International Airport, please follow: Shanghai Airport (Group) Co Ltd

Transfer In Hongqiao Airport-passenger without onward pass

Transfer In Hongqiao Airport-passenger with onward pass

Tips for Travelers to/from Hongqiao Airport

• • Arrive Early: Hongqiao Airport is not very large. For domestic flights, usually arriving 1.5–2 hours before departure will be enough. For international flights, allow extra time for check-in and security.
  • Peak Hours: Metro Line 2/10 is the most reliable means of transport during morning (7–9 AM) and evening (5–7 PM) rush hours.
  • Payment Methods: Services in Shanghai Hongqiao Airport accept cash, Visa, Mastercard, and Chinese mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay.
  • Taxi Tips: If you’re not familiar with Chinese, prepare your destination in Chinese to show the driver.
  • Apps & Maps: Download maps, metro apps, and payment apps in advance for a smoother airport-to-city experience.
  • Visa & Entry: See more information in China Travel Entry Requirements 2026 and 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit
  • 3C Devices / Power Banks: If you want to bring a charged power bank for your electronic equipment, make sure it has the “CCC mark” on it.

FAQ about Hongqiao International Airport

Which airport is better, Hongqiao or Pudong?

Hongqiao is closer to downtown and better for domestic flights. It’s more convenient for high-speed rail transfers. Pudong serves most international flights, and it’s farther from the city center, requiring more time in transfers.

What payment methods are accepted at the airport?

In addition to cash, Visa, and Mastercard, you can use Alipay or WeChat Pay at most shops and kiosks.

Are English signs and assistance available?

Yes, most signs are in English, and they are shown in a really clear way. Airport staff at information desks can also assist travelers.

Travel to Shanghai with China Xian Tour

Shanghai is a large international metropolis known as the global financial hub, and it’s also a city blending modern skyscrapers with historic neighborhoods, attracting visitors with its unique charm. If you’re planning a Shanghai tour combined with nearby cities or attractions, you can join a perfect journey with China Xian Tour. We offer customized itineraries and all the best services, including private transfer from Hongqiao Airport. With us handling all the logistics along the way, you’ll be enjoying a memorable Shanghai exploration.