Shanghai Railway Station Guide: How to Take Tibet Train from Shanghai

Shanghai is one of the most popular gateway cities to Tibet. From Shanghai Railway Station, you can board a direct train to Lhasa for an epic journey of about 45 hours. The city’s modern transport system makes it easy to reach the train station and also connects you to nearby cities by high-speed rail.

For a smooth and hassle-free Tibet train journey from Shanghai, this comprehensive guide has everything you need. Read on to learn about the Shanghai to Lhasa train schedule, how to book your ticket, how to get to the station, how to board the train, and more helpful tips to make your journey easier.

Shanghai Lhasa Train Schedule: Train Z164 Departs from Shanghai Railway Station

There are several train stations in Shanghai, but to catch the train to Lhasa, you need to go to Shanghai Railway Station. Train Z164 departs every day at 18:33 and arrives in Lhasa two days later at 15:30 after traveling for 44 hours and 57 minutes.

The whole route covers 4,373 km and passes through eight provinces and one autonomous region. The train ascends from sea level on the coastal plains to elevations of over 5,000 meters on the Tibetan Plateau. It is one of the most epic train journeys you can take in China, taking you from the eastern urban landscapes to the unique Qinghai-Tibet plateau scenery, including snowcapped mountain peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and vast grasslands.

Please note:
The train schedule from Shanghai to Lhasa above is just for reference. When you make early reservation, please contact us for more details.

How to Book a Ticket from Shanghai to Lhasa?

There are several ways to book Tibet train tickets from Shanghai, including several online options. China Railway’s official website at 12306.com is one of the most popular in China. Tickets can be booked for any of the many train routes around the country, including the Tibet train. Buying train tickets requires real-name identity verification. International credit cards are accepted as payment options.

The most convenient choice is to book through a registered Tibet travel agency like us. We are very experienced in securing tickets and will deliver the tickets to you at the train station or your hotel. As long as you book your tour with us, we guarantee that you’ll get the soft sleeper ticket you want on the day you want to travel.

Shanghai Railway Station

Where is Shanghai Railway Station? How Can I Get There?

Shanghai Railway Station is located near the city center between Jing’an and Zhabei Districts. Subway lines 1, 3, and 4 have stops at the station, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the city.

1. Get to Shanghai Railway Station from Shanghai Pudong Airport

Pudong International Airport is a common arrival point for international travelers. Shanghai Railway Station is 45 km away. By taxi, it takes 40-60 minutes to get to the Shanghai Railway Station and costs between 150-200 CNY (21-28 USD).

You can also travel by subway. Board Line 2 at the airport and transfer to Line 1 at People’s Square Station. It takes around 90 minutes and costs 8 CNY (1.1 USD).

2. Get to Shanghai Railway Station from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport

Shanghai’s other international Airport, Hongqiao Airport, is only 20 km from Shanghai Railway Station. By taxi, it takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs 50-60 CNY (7-8.5 USD).

By subway, it takes around 40 minutes and costs 5 CNY (0.7 USD). Take Line 10 to Shanxi South Road and transfer to Line 1.

3. Get to Shanghai Railway Station from Downtown

Downtown Shanghai, including the area around People’s Square, The Bund, and Xintiandi, is very close to Shanghai Railway Station by taxi or subway. Taxis typically take 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic, and cost 20-40 CNY (2.8-5.5 USD).

From People’s Square and Xintiandi, you can board Subway Line 1 and travel directly to Shanghai Railway Station in around 10 minutes for 3 CNY (.5 USD). If you are starting from the Bund, board Line 2 and transfer to Line 1 at People’s Square Station, it is only one stop away.

Passengers can take shuttle bus to Shanghai Railway Station from Pudong Airport.

How to Board Tibet Train at Shanghai Railway Station?

Shanghai Railway Station is well designed for the convenience of travelers, but it always pays to arrive early and be prepared for the train boarding process.

1. Prepare Your Travel Documents

When traveling to Tibet, the most important step is to have your documents prepared before arriving at the train station. Bring your passport and Tibet Travel Permit. A paper ticket is no longer needed for boarding the train. You can scan your passport at the entry gate.

We will help you to get the Tibet Travel Permit, and send it to you before you taking the train. Just contact us in advance to avoid any delays of the permit application.

2. Pass through the Security Check & Wait in the Waiting Hall

You must pass through the security check when entering the station. It is similar to airport security but without the restrictions on bringing liquids. Once inside, there are large waiting halls where you can find a seat or, if there’s time, have a meal or snack at one of the many restaurants in the station.

3. Find Your Platform & Get Onboard

Each train platform has a separate boarding gate that can be accessed from the waiting hall. Large displays show the platform information and train status. Ticket check usually opens 15-20 minutes before departure, giving you plenty of time to reach the platform and board the train.

The Waiting Room in Shanghai Railway Station

Add-on: Explore Nearby Cities by High-speed Train before Your Tibet Tour

China’s vast high-speed rail network makes it easy to quickly reach many nearby cities. If you have more time for traveling, take advantage of the opportunity to see historic sites before traveling to Tibet.

1. Shanghai to Suzhou High-Speed Train

Suzhou is famous for its classical gardens, canals, and old city, and it’s only minutes away. Trains depart for Suzhou from many stations in Shanghai. The most convenient is available from Hongqiao Train Station, and reaching Suzhou is 20-30 minutes. Once you’re there, don’t miss the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lingering Garden and Humble Administrator’s Garden or the historical canal street Shantang Street.

2. Shanghai to Hangzhou High-Speed Train

Hangzhou is famous for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. From Hongqiao Station, the high-speed train takes only 45 minutes to reach Hangzhou East Station. Visit the famous West Lake and Lingyin Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in China. For a relaxing experience, go to Longjing Tea Village to try the famous Dragon Wall green tea and enjoy mountain views.

3. Shanghai to Beijing High-Speed Train

Beijing is not exactly close, but high-speed trains link the two megacities, letting you reach China’s capital in 4 hours and 26 minutes from Hongqiao Station. The modern trains are comfortable, so you’ll arrive ready to start exploring Beijing's famous sites like the Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, and Forbidden City.

Conclusion

Shanghai is one of the best-connected cities in China to international destinations worldwide, making it a great place to start a Tibet tour. The incredible train journey crosses the whole country before ascending to the high-altitude Tibetan plateau, treating you to amazing views of the landscapes of China and Tibet.

Shanghai Railway Station is easy to reach and simple to navigate. As long as you have your document prepared, you can smoothly board the train and start your Tibet tour. Start planning your trip on the Tibet train now, or contact us for information about great itineraries to the roof of the world.