Shanghai is a fast-paced blend of historic charm and futuristic skylines. From strolling the Bund to navigating the mega-city's immense metro system, having reliable data is an absolute must here. With a JamboSim data plan, you can skip the local firewall hurdles and stay seamlessly connected to your favourite apps the moment you land. 🥟
Landing at Pudong International (PVG)? The Maglev train is the coolest way into town, hitting 430 km/h and reaching Longyang Road station in just 8 minutes for around 50 RMB. From there, switch to the metro. If you fly into Hongqiao (SHA), you are already much closer to the center; Metro Lines 2 and 10 will zip you straight to major hubs like Jing'an. Taxis from either airport are plentiful, but make sure you have your destination written in Chinese characters.
Shanghai's metro system is massive, clean, and incredibly cheap, with rides starting at just 3 RMB. Download the MetroMan app to plan your routes easily. Taxis are everywhere, but ride-hailing through DiDi (which has an English interface inside WeChat or Alipay) is usually more convenient since you won't need to explain directions. Walking is great for exploring neighborhoods like the French Concession, but the sheer scale of the city means you will definitely rely on the underground to cross town.
Public Wi-Fi is common in Shanghai's cafes, malls, and hotels, but there is a catch. Most local networks require a Chinese phone number to send an SMS verification code. Even if you connect, you will hit the local internet firewall, blocking your usual social media and search engines. Because JamboSim data roams via a foreign network, your apps keep working normally without extra software. Relying on your own data is much simpler and far more secure.
Cash is practically obsolete in Shanghai. Locals use Alipay and WeChat Pay for absolutely everything, from high-end dining to buying steamed buns from a street cart. As a visitor, you can now link your international credit card to both Alipay and WeChat to pay like a local. Just set it up before you arrive. Also, remember to pack comfortable shoes—despite the brilliant public transport, navigating those vast metro transfer stations will easily rack up your daily step count.
Make your time in Shanghai a breeze with these essential local apps.
Our China data plan is perfect, covering Shanghai and the rest of the mainland. If you are travelling further afield, check out our regional Asia plans.
Yes! Install your eSIM before you fly, and just turn on data roaming when you touch down at Pudong or Hongqiao.
JamboSim automatically connects you to top local networks like China Mobile or China Unicom for the best possible speeds.
Absolutely. If you start running low while exploring the city, just buy a top-up through the JamboSim app to stay connected.
