Shanghai has one of the world's most extensive bus systems, with nearly 1000 bus lines, including long-distance buses to nearby cities such as Hangzhou, Suzhou, Nanjing, Ningbo, and Huangshan. Long-distance buses are a good option for travellers on a budget, as they are cheaper than flights and trains, and they also offer more frequent departures. However, the comfort and cleanliness of long-distance buses can be unreliable, and unexpected delays are common due to traffic, security checkpoints, or road construction. While most buses in Shanghai have air conditioning, older buses may not, so it is a bit of a gamble.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Number of long-distance bus stations in Shanghai | Over 40 |
Locations | Downtown and suburban areas |
Destinations | Hangzhou, Suzhou, Nanjing, Ningbo, Huangshan, Wuzhen Water Town, etc. |
Ticket purchase | In-person at coach stations or online |
Ticket price | Varies; usually available 10 days in advance |
Discounts | 50% off for children between 1.2-1.5m; free for kids under 1.2m |
Operating hours | Vary by station; e.g., 5:00 am-10:00 pm at Shanghai General Long Distance Bus Station |
Facilities | Ticket counters, check-in counters, parking, VIP rooms, banks, restaurants, shops, etc. |
Bus amenities | Air conditioning, safety belts, attendants, water bottles, newspapers, entertainment |
What You'll Learn
- Sleeper buses are uncomfortable for foreigners due to small, unclean cots
- Theft is more common on long-distance buses than trains
- More expensive bus tickets are likely to be cleaner and better air-conditioned
- Shanghai has over 40 long-distance bus stations
- The Shanghai General Long-Distance Bus Station covers an area of 30,000 square meters
Sleeper buses are uncomfortable for foreigners due to small, unclean cots
Shanghai has a vast network of over 2000 bus lines, including long-distance buses, trolleybuses, and suburban lines. While the city's long-distance buses provide an affordable way to travel between Shanghai and nearby cities, they may not be the most comfortable option, especially for foreigners.
Sleeper buses, which are commonly used for long-distance travel in China, can be uncomfortable for foreigners due to their small and sometimes unclean cots. These buses typically have cots stacked two or three high and two or three across, which can be cramped and uncomfortable for those not used to this arrangement. The lack of personal space and proximity to strangers can be challenging for those who value privacy and comfort.
Additionally, cleanliness can be an issue on sleeper buses, with blankets sometimes not being washed between passengers. The overall hygiene standards may not meet the expectations of foreigners, especially if they board the bus midway through its route, as it may already be messy from previous passengers.
Toilets are also usually not available on sleeper buses, which can be inconvenient and lead to unpleasant situations, especially during long journeys. It is not uncommon for people to get motion sickness or experience other issues, and the bus driver may not always stop if someone needs to get off urgently.
While long-distance buses in Shanghai offer a cost-effective way to travel, the discomfort and potential hygiene issues associated with sleeper buses can be off-putting for foreigners. It is essential to consider these factors when deciding on a mode of transportation, especially for those new to China or unfamiliar with the language.
To avoid such inconveniences, it is recommended to opt for alternative modes of transportation, such as trains or flights, which offer more comfort and convenience, albeit at a higher cost.
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Theft is more common on long-distance buses than trains
Shanghai has an extensive network of long-distance bus stations, offering transport to nearby cities such as Hangzhou, Suzhou, Nanjing, Ningbo, and Huangshan. The city has over 2000 bus lines, with more than 10 bus companies in operation.
Long-distance bus travel is not recommended for new visitors to China, as theft is more common on buses than trains. While long-distance bus travel is economical and provides access to remote areas, there are several problems with this mode of transport. Sleeper buses, which are common for journeys over five hours, can be cramped and uncomfortable for foreigners. Theft is a significant issue, as it is easier for people to steal belongings when passengers are sleeping in close quarters. It is advisable to be cautious and not travel alone on these buses.
Cleanliness is also a concern, especially on lower-priced buses, and the lack of bathrooms can lead to unpleasant situations. Miscommunication and scams are other potential issues, as ticket sellers may overcharge or sell fake tickets, and language barriers can make it challenging to navigate the system.
For these reasons, trains or flights are generally recommended over long-distance buses for visitors to China. Bullet trains, in particular, offer speed, safety, convenience, and affordable tickets.
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More expensive bus tickets are likely to be cleaner and better air-conditioned
Shanghai has over 40 long-distance bus stations, providing transport to nearby cities such as Hangzhou, Suzhou, Nanjing, Ningbo, and Huangshan. Buses are also available for tourists who want to visit attractions like Wuzhen Water Town and the Yellow Mountain.
Long-distance bus travel in China is not recommended for new visitors due to the potential for scams, theft, miscommunication, and poor cleanliness. However, it is a good option for those on a budget, as it is cheaper than other modes of transport.
When it comes to bus travel, you generally get what you pay for. The more expensive bus tickets are likely to be cleaner and better air-conditioned. They also tend to be less cramped and more comfortable.
For example, better-quality coaches with seats are usually used on routes less than six hours long. These buses are typically clean and air-conditioned, with safety belts and an attendant. The windows are shut, and the air-conditioning is good. A bottle of water and sometimes a local newspaper are provided for free.
On the other hand, regular-quality coaches with seats are used for trips within three to four hours. These buses are tolerably clean and have no attendant. They make stops along the way to pick up passengers, and the windows are often open with no air-conditioning. No free water is provided, and there is no washroom.
Additionally, most long-distance buses that travel more than five to seven hours are sleeper buses, where people lie in cots stacked two or three high and two or three across. These buses are generally uncomfortable, cramped, and not very clean. Blankets and pillows might be supplied, but they may not be washed.
Therefore, if you are considering taking a long-distance bus in Shanghai, it is advisable to choose the more expensive tickets to ensure a cleaner and more comfortable journey with better air-conditioning.
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Shanghai has over 40 long-distance bus stations
The long-distance buses in Shanghai offer a range of destinations, including nearby cities such as Hangzhou, Suzhou, Nanjing, Ningbo, and Huangshan. Additionally, tourist coaches are available from these stations to attractions like Wuzhen Water Town and the Yellow Mountain.
When purchasing tickets, foreigners must present their passports, and tickets are typically available up to 10 days in advance, with longer periods during holidays. Children can also enjoy discounted rates, with those between 1.2 and 1.5 meters receiving a 50% discount, and children under 1.2 meters riding for free when accompanied by an adult.
As for the buses themselves, Shanghai has implemented electric and hybrid buses, with over 1,700 new energy buses as of May 2015. The city has also retained its trolley bus routes, with the Yan'an Road Medium Capacity Bus Transit System being a trolleybus bus rapid transit line.
While long-distance bus travel may not be recommended for new visitors to China due to potential language barriers and scams, it offers benefits such as economy, frequent departures, and the opportunity to experience the "Real China."
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The Shanghai General Long-Distance Bus Station covers an area of 30,000 square meters
Shanghai's General Long-Distance Bus Station is the city's largest and busiest road traffic hub. Covering an area of 30,000 square meters, the station is within walking distance of Shanghai's north square and the Shanghai Railway Station.
The station is served by metro lines 1, 3, and 4, with passengers disembarking at exit 6 of the Shanghai Railway Station. It is also accessible by bus, with several bus lines stopping at Zhongxing Road North Hengfeng Road. The station is open from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
The General Long-Distance Bus Station offers a range of destinations, including nearby cities such as Hangzhou, Suzhou, Nanjing, Ningbo, and Huangshan. It also provides connections to attractions like Wuzhen Water Town and the Yellow Mountain.
For long-distance bus travel in Shanghai, tickets must be purchased in cash at the coach station. Foreigners are required to show their passports when buying tickets, which are usually available 10 days in advance. Children between 1.2 and 1.5 meters tall receive a 50% discount, while kids under 1.2 meters can ride for free if accompanied by an adult.
The station features self-service ticket machines on the first floor, where passengers can collect tickets booked online. The station's address is No. 1666, Zhongxing Road, in the Zhabei District of Shanghai.
Shanghai's extensive bus network includes over 2000 formal bus lines, served by more than 10 bus companies. The city has around 40 long-distance bus stations, providing a valuable supplement to air and train travel.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, long-distance buses in Shanghai usually have air conditioning.
There are two types of long-distance buses in China: seated buses and sleeper buses. Seated buses have two sets of two seats with a middle aisle, and the seats usually have a slight recline. Sleeper buses have three rows of beds with two aisles, and a bathroom at the back.
You can buy tickets at the bus station or, in some cases, through your hotel. Tickets are usually bought with cash, but WeChat and Alipay are also accepted.
Long-distance buses in China are a cheap way to travel and depart more frequently than flights or trains. They are also more conveniently located than airports and train stations.
Long-distance buses in China can be unreliable in terms of comfort and delays. They are also used by a different type of traveller, which means rules are more relaxed and sometimes ignored.