First Impressions

Shanghai Pudong International Airport also known as PVG is a major hub in East Asia and is one of the busiest airports in the world. Pvg is also renowned for its modern amenities and efficient services. The airport has a huge array of shopping and dining options, luxurious lounges, and convenient transportation links, including the Maglev train. It also owns so many cultural displays, art installations, and baby care corners. This guide will help you navigate the airport with ease, making your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

1. Arrival Procedures

Immigration:

After arriving at Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG), always follow the signs for immigration. Make sure that you bring the passport, visa, and completed arrival card readily for the procedures. Immigration at PVG is generally efficient but the processing time may take a while depending upon your flight arrivals.

Baggage Claim:

After your immigration process, proceed to the baggage claim area. There you can find the flight number on the display board to find the exact carousel. You can find the baggage cart there and it's completely free to use.

Customs:

After clearing the baggage and collecting your luggage, head to the customs area. If you are sure that you have nothing to declare, use the green channel. And if you have anything to declare, always go for the red channel.

2. Departure Procedures

Check-In:

Coming to the check-in, PVG has two main terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Always make sure to check your terminal and airline information before arriving. Most of the airlines suggest you arrive at least three hours before an international flight. You can find both Self-check-in kiosks and traditional check-in counters there.

Security Screening:

After your check-in, proceed to the security screening area inside. Make sure that the liquids, Liquids, gels, and aerosols are in containers of 100ml or less and placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag. Also, electronics such as laptops and electronic devices should be put in separate bins.

Immigration:

For the departing passengers, security screening comes after immigration. Make sure that you carry your passport, boarding pass, and departure card with you.

3. Getting Around the Airport

Terminal Shuttle:

A Terminal Shuttle bus will be operating between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. This ride takes about 10 minutes and is completely free of charge. If you want to get around somewhere in between those areas, you can go for this terminal shuttle bus.

Signage:

If you are someone new to Shanghai International Airport or looking for signals you can go for the clear bilingual signage available throughout the airport. This can help you direct to different locations such as the gates, restrooms, lounges, and dining areas.

4. Amenities and Services

China Eastern VIP Lounge located in Terminal 1 offers a wide range of facilities including gourmet food, private shower suites, and a business center. While Cathay Pacific Lounge located in Terminal 2 is designed in a modern sleek design, with a noodle bar, workstations, and comfortable seating areas. If you are looking for complimentary food options, beverages, high-speed wifi, and comfortable seating for relaxation, this is your place.

Shopping:

If you are a shopping freak looking for some ultra-luxury brands, Shanghai Airport has it all! You can spot Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel at the airport and pick your favorite pieces. If you're looking for some authentic local pieces to keep as a memory for your China trip, buy Chinese tea, silk scarves, and traditional handicrafts from Shanghai Tang and China Duty-Free (CDF).

Dining:

It is mandatory to taste some authentic Chinese dishes when in China. The top Chinese restaurants at PVG are Ding Tai Fung and Old Shanghai Restaurant. You can go for Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) from Ding Tai Fung at T1 and Old Shanghai Restaurant for traditional Shanghainese dishes which is also in Terminal 1. We would recommend you to try, dishes like xiaolongbao, braised pork belly, and Shanghai noodles.

Relaxation:

A little pampering before your flight!Sounds great huh? For great massages, facials, and reflexology go for Dragonfly Therapeutic Retreat at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. If full body massages and aromatherapy are your thing, opt for The Green Massage, also available in both terminals. No matter you’re waiting for a flight or after a flight, proper rejuvenation is much needed for your soul and it can make a greater change in your upcoming journey as well.

Kids’ Play Area:

Most kids will be tired of the flights and by utilizing the children's play areas they will have relief and can enjoy the layover time! Both terminals have children's play areas with toys and activities for kids. Baby care facilities like changing tables, feeding chairs, and all other essentials required for the parent and the baby are available there! If you have to rent a stroller, PVG also has options for that as well!

5. Connectivity and Business Services

Don't worry PVG is especially curated for business tycoons too! PVG offers fully equipped business centers in both terminals with meeting rooms, workstations, printing, and fax services. Also, you can use the high-speed internet access, charging stations, and conference call facilities.

6. Unique Experiences

Unwind yourself and find your inner peace amidst the airport chaos at the indoor gardens of PVG! Shanghai airport is famous for its luscious green garden with flowers and calming water settings! Find yourself in these bamboo spaces and unwind in peace! You can find these serene spaces at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

Maglev Train:

Take a trip on the Shanghai maglev train which is one of the fastest trains in the world with a whopping speed of 431 km/h (268 mph). If you want to access Shanghai Pudong International Airport to Longyang Road Station in central Shanghai in just 7 minutes, you can go for this train! The maglev station is easily accessible from both terminals.

7. Advice for a Hassle-Free Journey

It is recommended to arrive at least three hours before your international flight to have a smooth and clear check-in and security procedures. Also make sure that you carry your documents like passport, visa, and boarding pass safely with you for a smooth check-in. Always keep updated with the monitor flight information displayed on the screen and listen for the announcements regarding your flights.

Final Thoughts

That's all that Shanghai Airport has to offer to you all! This is all you need to note before heading to PVG, from arrival to the amenities our blog shares everything you need to keep in mind before your journey! From relaxing at the airport lounges to taking a ride on the world’s fastest train, you have a wide range of activities to do at Shanghai Airport. We assure you that your layover won’t be boring as usual, because you have a plethora of activities to do! Are you excited to visit Shanghai Airport? Experience everything PVG has to offer and share your experiences and tips with us!

FAQs

Q: Which country is PVG?

A: PVG is located in the largest city Shanghai residing in China.

Q: Does Shanghai have two airports?

A: Yes, Shanghai has 2 airports including Pudong International Airport (Shanghai Pudong International Airport) and Hongqiao International Airport (Shanghai Hongqiao Guoji Jichang).

Q: Does PVG offer any kind of entertainment during the layover?

A: Yes, PVG has a wide range of activities to choose from including the world's first airport IMAX theater to VR Zone.

Q: Is there anywhere to store my luggage at Shanghai Airport?

A: Absolutely! Shanghai Airport provides luggage facilities available in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

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