Timing at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport

Question

I realize that this may be subjective, but I am interested in hearing your opinions. I am arriving at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport from Dubai on China airlines with a stop and plane change in Beijing. From Shanghai Hongqiao Airport, I have to take a train to Hangzhou. ( It sounds exhausting just writing about it.). Since apparently I have to buy the train tickets in advance, I am trying to figure out which times train departure to purchase. If my flight is scheduled to land in Shanghai Hongqiao Airport at 5 pm, and I have to collect luggage, approx how much time should I give myself to get to the train, without unnecessarily making the whole trip longer than it has to be? This is my first time at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport, and my first bullet train experience. Thanks.

Answer

Arriving at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport and transferring to a high-speed train to Hangzhou is manageable, but it’s good to plan for some buffer time, especially since it’s your first visit and first bullet train experience.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect and how much time you should allocate:

Immigration and baggage collection: Since you are arriving from an international flight (via Beijing), you will need to go through immigration, collect checked luggage, and clear customs. For a first-time visitor, this can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on queue lengths and airport efficiency.
Transfer to Hongqiao Railway Station: The train station is connected to the airport via the Hongqiao Airport Terminal 2. If you land at Terminal 2, it’s a short walk (5–10 minutes) through signs to the railway station. If you land at Terminal 1, you may need a shuttle (5–10 minutes plus waiting time).
Security check at the train station: Even with an e-ticket, all passengers must go through security before entering the platforms. Allow at least 15–30 minutes, longer during peak hours or holidays.
Recommended buffer: Considering flight delays, immigration, luggage, and security, it’s safe to allow at least 2–2.5 hours between scheduled landing and train departure.

Example timing:

If your flight is scheduled to land at 17:00, plan to book a train no earlier than 19:00–19:30. This gives a comfortable buffer for all procedures without rushing, and you can still enjoy a relaxed transfer.
If you want maximum safety, especially during busy travel periods, consider a 20:00 departure train.

Additional tips:

Purchase your high-speed train ticket in advance online or via the official railway app. Using your passport number is necessary for ticket collection and boarding.
Check your flight status before leaving Dubai, in case of any delays that might affect your train timing.
If possible, choose a train from Hangzhou East Station, as it’s the main station and has more frequent connections.
Keep your passport and boarding pass handy, as railway staff will check both before boarding.

In summary, for a 17:00 international arrival at Hongqiao Airport, aim for a train departing around 19:00–20:00. This balances efficiency with a comfortable buffer for first-time procedures.

Timing at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport

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