Transport & Getting Around
Getting around China: high-speed rail (CR400, 350 km/h between Beijing-Shanghai in 4.5 hours), Didi (Chinese Uber, in-app English support), Beijing/Shanghai metros (use Alipay or WeChat ride codes), airport transfers, and how to book trains as a foreigner using your passport. Also which Chinese taxi apps actually accept overseas cards.
4 answers
Is British Airways worth the additional cost compared to China Eastern for flights to Shanghai?
Budget 1,150 GBP round-trip on BA versus 580 GBP on MU for London-Shanghai economy in 2026; the gap is roughly 50%.
How to transfer between Hongqiao and Pudong airports Shanghai
Take the Airport Link Line for ¥26 — 40-minute transfer between Pudong and Hongqiao, versus 90+ minutes on Metro Line 2.
What is the fastest transportation option from Shanghai PVG Airport to the cruise terminal when facing a tight boarding deadline?
Use a metered airport taxi or Didi; budget ¥220 to ¥280 and 60 to 90 minutes from PVG to Dongdaming Road.
How can I avoid smoky taxis and rude drivers when using ride-sharing in Shanghai?
Pick Didi Premier (¥21 base) or Luxe over Express to cut smoking incidents — premium drivers lose payouts after complaints.