DragonSoft – ShangHai , China Reviews

The staff is impatient and not friendly at all. Avoid this airport and China Eastern Airlines.

Although there are more passengers than Hongqiao Airport, there are few baggage inspection areas available. Traveling to the airport is often crowded, and it's an airport that takes a lot of time.

When I changed from Terminal 2 to Terminal 1 early in the morning. Although the departure counter was a large line from the morning, the attendant did not come even 40 minutes before departure and eventually missed. I prepared an alternative flight, so the result was all right
I think you should buy souvenirs in Shanghai.

Shanghai's largest and best-equipped airport, but the service can only be considered average.

Lined up with passport controls, it takes a long time to get through security. China's airports are the toughest than anywhere else in the world. All items in the bag will be taken out, and all batteries without capacity indication will be confiscated. I was killed in the past, but this time my daughter got stuck. If you have a small mobile battery, watch out.

Anyway, it is checked to the last minute. When I got out of the boarding gate and thought I could do it, a security guard had marked a stub with a ballpoint pen just before boarding. I don't know what I want to do, but it's really annoying.

Definitely one of the worst international airports we have been to. The bathrooms are disgusting even though there are at least 3 cleaning people hanging out, chatting near the bathroom. Honestly the entire airport is pretty gross but there are SO many cleaning people just standing around and hanging out, it was bizarre! The nursing or feeding room does not even have a chair in it and only has a sink with a changing table, no toilet making it impossible to use the bathroom if you are traveling solo with small kids. There is absolutely nothing to do with small kids to pass the time. If you want to charge devices you have to bring a converter or find the one kiosk with a working USB. Did not visit any shops since most are outside checked area. We did have to go through customs due to us missing our gate checked stroller and the customs area was very easy to navigate. We flew out of one of the bottom gates and since the elevator is in a locked area had to take a stroller down the escalator which is horribly unsafe. We passed many workers who saw us doing this and nobody offered to helped with the elevator. We were in the expedited line so it was quick but normal foreigner line looked rather long. All in all know that it will be a long, boring and dirty layover!

Update:: on our return trip we noticed that one end of the terminal 1 is literally empty. There are a few restaurants down there, along with a Starbucks. It was MUCH cooler and so easy to find a place to relax on our 8 hour layover. Head towards Gate 23 and you will be pleasantly surprised!

The instalations are good. Personal is kind. But for taking international flights you must face one extra queue: check-in, immigration control and lugagge control. Today it took like 1.5 hours for me.

Landed at 4 AM and waited 45 minutes for the transit door to get opened. The place was deserted. Walked all over the airport to get a coffee. All were closed. Finally at 6 AM saw the starbucks was opened. Entered in with the greeting of Good Morning and got a crisp reply of NOT OPEN... they dont have any sense on customer care. Asked when will this place opens officially and got a response 7.

Plan your transit properly and atleast have the expectations correctly.

Bought a bottle of water for a 17 hour ride in the terminal only to have it taken away during boarding. Beyond confusing place on many levels

Very classy and stylish Airport with very impressive facilities. It is easy to navigate especially for first-time China Travelers like me.

Every time I go, I get exhausted before I get on a plane while I'm ticketing, imgrating, and searching for security. There are many visitors, but I do not feel the caring for them. I do not want to come to Pudong Airport for any reason.

Terminal 1: (there is a Terminal 2 opposite of T1 - bus or a long walk to get there) Airport is new and shiny, but lacking. ATM ... (Nov 2019) they took away any functional ATMs out of T1. This has been replaced with money change counters. Some rumour that T2 may have ATMs that can accept foreign cards.
S1 *NEW SATELLITE TERMINAL for DELTA and other airlines. Must take a Airport train (5min) after immigration/ checkin in T1. Allow extra 20min. S1 layout is very good with restaurants. *No ATMs. S1, T1 or T2 -bring good walking shoes. Subway, Maglev, Bus, DiDi, Taxi available at the airport. Plan on full Biometric scanning upon arrival (subsequent travel will not require this as they have this data already). Baggage claim is reasonably fast. Long walk & no ATMs takes away 2 stars.

The infrastructure and transportation were OK, while the directions/info desks/Wifi connection were all disappointing. You don't feel welcomed at all when you can't even connect your devices to the internet and the only way is to get an account from a info stand. The staffs weren't very professional and polite in dealing with passenger issues.

The airport was not that nice for layovers. Very adequate seating but the restaurant selection was slim as was the washroom quality.

Nice airport clean and relatively easy to navigate. The security guys were very friendly.

There is nothing in the airport compared to the airport. Incheon airport class. Duty-free shops and restaurants seem to be halfway to Incheon airport. The bathroom is just like that. It is not just good or bad. There was a Korean-style restaurant in the duty-free zone and I ate rice, but the price of Korean food was fine and the taste was OK. (But,

The lines are almost always long, especially through immigration and customs. Usually it's not hard to find employees who speak English. The airport has free WiFi, but you need a Chinese phone number to receive the code, unless you register an account in advance with the government. Overall, a clean airport with many shops and services, tending to the slow side.

Compared to Bejing this airport was a breeze for international transfers. The toilets were clean & tidy. There was a small selection of western food for the weary traveler. All in all a good experience.

I've been to over 50 airports and this is by far the worst. Avoid this place like the plague. I'll try and keep this short. No A/C, dirty, long lines everywhere, smells bad, and no one is friendly.

Security checks are strict and time-consuming. Pass the metal detector just to enter the airport facility. There is no help for it because it is for security reasons. Smooth after check-in and immigration.
The mobile battery is strictly checked. If the capacity is not displayed, it is unconditionally required to dispose. On the other hand, the owner himself said that the battery that he had forgotten but did not declare will pass without being caught.
Mineral water should be bought at the shop before you go to the airport or before check-in. If you go inside, the price will jump.
Do you sometimes have dual nationality at the immigration center? It can be seen that the suspected person is being investigated like an exposed person.
There are various souvenir shops where you can kill time before boarding. Panda merchandise can be purchased at various shops besides the specialty panda shop. Stationery, sweets, T-shirts, etc.

I'm not the type of person to ever even leave a review on anything. But I had the worst experience here. The workers at Pudong International are so unfriendly, unhelpful and downright mean. I flew from Japan, Shanghai and ended in JFK but was forced to stay for a 24+ layover after I missed my connection due to them holding my bags. I then went to the information desk to get a hotel, the man behind the desk then used his personal cellphone to call a "hotel employee" to come pick me up, while trying to take a photo of my American passport and after I seemed scared he reassured me by telling me to call his personal cellphone if I had any issues... The entire thing made me uncomfortable and it was incredibly unprofessional and weird. The "hotel employee" arrived and it was a younger man wearing normal clothes who spoke no english. He tried to get me into his personal vehicle and I then ran back into the airport. I was a 21 yo female traveling alone, I've traveled all over the world alone but I have never felt as unsafe as I did in Shanghai than anywhere else.

Wonderful airport only duty free timing is the issue plus loung timing .they all open only six am

45 min away from central Shangahi.
A lot of security monitoring and staff mat not be well trained to treat international passengers.
Architecture is modern and reprents well the modernized Shanghai.
A lot of great shops inside to buy Chinese souvenir such as gree tea and artifacts.
Free Wifi.

There are words to describe this place of how good you feel about the respect of its people. There are wines from Spain. Rioja. There is immense respect for people. I have to go back to Shanghai again. The airport is tremendously beautiful.

I passed by Japan and Phuket by midnight on February 23rd 2019, but it is clearly said that it is feces. The fact that the correspondence of the staff is bad is not important, but it is noticeable that the efficiency of work is bad and it gets stuck.
It's too late to have that response to waiting for a transit process that will have more than 100 people The only one typing staff.
Even though about 5 machines we introduced to improve efficiency going back and forth, whenever we saw the same 2 machines broken and awaiting maintenance.
Moreover, at this time, depending on the ticket, those who can not even use five cars are going on.
Eventually a long line of chapters to be sent to a manned counter has been completed but there are no announcements such as the machine being broken, or verbal communication, so people coming from behind will be played out at the opportunity first I love you.
It took more than 3 hours to complete the baggage inspection after landing and it became a nice experience to feel the high quality of Japan's airport as a strange feeling.

Use for transfer.
It takes about 1 hour to 1.5 hours by bus to Hongqiao Airport.
You need to be careful during times of heavy traffic as you pass by a location close to the center.

These reviewers that write "it's the best airport in the world", are either stoned or being paid to write a positive review. I've yet to visit a worse airport. Embarrassingly dirty. WiFi doesn't work. Outdated technology. It's a shame.

It looks better on Satellite and it's better than I thought

Very distrubing experience as the locals have no barometer for manners and etiquette, as the believe everyone should be treated with a cattle prod and they are very rude, very pushy and not helpful at all. The probably believe the rest of the world is just as uncivilized as it is here. Hopefully the chinese authorities, if it is true that they have soo many resources, that they would dedicate themselves to replicate a bit more of the European and American practices of customer service, etiquette and good manners, but I sincerely doubt it as what we saw in turns of disparity of economic conditions is too much for he blind eye. It will take a while for them to become more domisticated in worldly manners and just good behavior.

Used in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Both have the same shape, with a central underground and linear, transit hotel and food court.
It took less time to enter the restricted area at the time of domestic departure of Terminal 2 but it took about one hour to enter the restricted area because it was repeated many times at international departure. There are also several airport lounges. However, lounges for domestic flights are still closed early in the morning.

Bland food, expensive beers, dirty smelly bathrooms with ill fitted taps and soap dispensers, not enough seating where its needed and too many where its not... unhelpful staff just to name a few.

On the plus side there is multiple charging stations for your electronic devices, but beware of thives.

Shanghai Pudong Int Airport is an architectural beauty and well designed. Everything is clearly laid out and help-desks spread out evenly. Drop off at departure/ arrival is easy, unlike some airports (Dallas).

Plenty of tasty restaurants and last minute shopping stores (luxury/ confectionery).

Staff all very nice and efficient. Only time waster is the line before entering the airport to get inspected.

Lounge is also nice and can recommend the Turkish Halal restaurant for good eats.

Food choices are limited by international departures hall

It is a very large airport, the staff helps you with pleasure. First you must fill out the form attached, then you go to some machines like ATM to scan the passport and put your fingerprints, if for some reason it does not allow you to do so you must go directly to the second step that is to pass with the migration officer on which almost does not ask you any questions and then for your bags.
The internet is free at the airport and accessible to all.

I came from Hong Kong by China Eastern Airlines plane
I was very worried because the rear tail was painted and turned brown, but thanks to the double booking, I was upgraded to business class.
Forget about anxiety and get on board Drinking a sparkling wine Meal time But (rapidly ) But after falling into the air pocket, the rattling and shaking did not stop for more than an hour Wine spills, food I could n t eat it
I thought I was lucky just to arrive safely

Worst airport I ve ever been & worst place I ve been in china. Cheaters & robbers are everywhere and securities are support them.be careful when you go there

The mineral water is very expensive. Not much to see

While people were polite, this isn't the time to come to China. I lost count on how many check points they have in place, including one COVID-19 Nucleic testing area. Which everyone had to test, even if you had documentation/certification from the Chinese embassy. It took 5 hours to clear the airport.

Great modern airport, lots of dining options, ATMs that exchange money, well connected to the city and SHA airport via metro and coach.

One of the two airports in Shanghai, the main one has two terminals, flights to Europe and America depart from terminal 2.
It is very well signposted, very easy to find the airlines. They have a lot of lockers in case they have time to go on the Maglev to Shanghai, in 10 minutes they will be in the city.
If they arrive, change money at any exchange office at the airport, there is not much difference and the taxis have approximate rates depending on where they go.

Very large airport, quiet. Good service. I do not stay long but will return to Naviwindow

Fantastic treatment of the staff and everything new, clean and efficient.

Very far from the city itself. Transfer is not well thought out. The airport itself is lacking in clarity, too chaotic

Nice airport but not enough seating areas before security and need more places to charge phone

For international departure, make sure you arrive at least 3 hours before flight. The queue at immigration and security check is awful

Average service, although I could not find a single ATM with MAESTRO circuit, so I had to wait until I arrived in the city to be able to withdraw directly into RMB. Watch out for the characters who offer "deals" for the taxi to the center: you shouldn't pay more than 180 RMB (data from 10/14)

So so .. Nothing much to do there .. Restaurants are overpriced .. We went for burger king instead lol

Possibly the worst and most confusing airport I've been to in my entire life. Lounges do not have showers, there are little to no English speaking people of any useful help. Those who do will tell you to go around in circles and go in areas you're not supposed to. Other customers flying to our mutual destination had the same frustrations.

Lost and found is inaccessible from inside the departures hall, this means if you have lost something on the plane and wish to retrieve it from the first leg of your trip, even if they have it there is no way of getting to it.

Second, the other departures hall has two lounges which are confusingly China eastern plaza lounges (meaning amex/priority pass holders have access) but the China eastern lounge in the S1 terminal is not a plaza lounge.

Your health tracker will get a good work out and if you like bleak empty spaces this sure is one of them. In both service and the aesthetic sense.

The main files are the huge amount of delayed flights. Over 50 in 2016 and the poor airport traffic management. If there are delays the airport is not able to give new schedules. Instead robotic repeating of "delay through air traffic congestion" repeated like a solution mantra. Passengers are kept w/ o information and helpless.
Also incoming flights are often not allowed to access preassigned gates and need to deboard "on field" and shuttle to terminal.
Added with a useless gigantomanic architecture with long useless ways and lousy food options in over priced "stalls" this airport is one of worst international ones.
On positive side the emigration and immigration had speed up a lot in last year's and is also helpful in case of problems like damaged passport etc.

It's not a bad airport, takes way less time to make your way through customs and exit than Beijing, that's for sure. You can easily walk 10 min. from T1 to T2 and vice versa. However in T1 was incredibly cold because the air conditioning was on full blast. It's a bit crowded especially before security and check-in, but hey that's basically all of China.

Huge airport, clean compared to other airports in China.

The design is not good, go too far, have twenty minutes to walk

It's a massive airport so pls be ahead of time to your right gates. You have a smoking room and couple of food and bar as well after the security gate before your boarding gate so it's pretty much comfortable inside even if you are forced to spend hours you will not feel the pressure. One thing I didn't like about this place is the availability of recliner seats which could be more helpful !

Ample of space and tight security. Lots of people coming in and out, expect the immigration to be slow most of the times.

Training on manners and customer service is a must for this airport staff.

Asian hub airport. Security inspections can be unusual when crowded, but the eastern air lounge is always comfortable and shows off and you can enjoy flying.

Not the best airport. Long lines, mismanaged transfer/transit system, delayed flights.

This airport is very large. If you take the subway to the airport is a very wasteful means of transportation, but it is very fast to transfer to the maglev train, or you can take a taxi directly. Everyone here must pay attention to what area your flight is in. Because if you do n t pay attention, from the beginning to the end, it s really easy to temporarily. All domestic airports are also prohibited from bringing lighters on the plane to check baggage.

Free WiFi is slow and China blocks Google properties (so, ironically you won't be able to read this while at this airport). There is a Starbucks in this checked-in area as well as free water (hot and cold) to fill up water bottles. Lots of windows and large space of you have time before your flight.

huge, modern airport, with two current terminals. T1 opened in 1999 and houses domestic and international flights. T2 is newer and slightly larger than T2 and houses primarily Air China and Star Alliance members.

Some travellers report poor customer service and inefficient security processing. There are lots of rules for travellers, though they aren t communicated well.

Air-conditioning is poor, so you should dress in layovers in case it is warm inside the terminal.

Food is expensive and options are limited.



Transit process can be complicated. One reader says "Air China will not give you second boarding pass until you arrive at PVG, go thru customs, leave arrivals and check back in thru departures."

Where to Sleep

Overall it s not a comfortable airport to spend the night, but there are plenty of spots. Airport staff and security are generally tolerant of overnight travellers trying to sleep at the airport.

Landside is a lot less comfortable than Airside, with only a few benches and not much in the way of restaurants or amenities.

Most of the benches are cold and have armrests.

The arrivals area is quieter, but can be colder in winter with the doors opening frequently.

The air conditioning is cold so bring an extra layer.

Noise can be a problem in certain areas of the airport. Bring ear plugs or noise cancelling headphones!



Good to Know

Beware of men walking around the terminals trying to sell iPhones.

Free water is available in several spots.









Airport Lounges

Pay-per-use, Single Visit Passes & Lounge Memberships

Regardless of what class of service you are flying, there are lounges that you can enter by paying at the door, purchasing a lounge pass or through a lounge membership program (ie. Priority Pass). Visit the individual lounge page for more details about the lounge itself and to also find out how you can gain lounge access with just an economy class ticket!

Shanghai Pudong International Airport was a stopover two times to and ftom trip to Manila, Philippines. The world s third largest airport was clean and well laid out. The 24/144 hour visa free option is an added bonus for transit passengers willing to go on a short side tour of Shanghai/Pudong. Though much of the airport staff has a challenge with English, the airport has a lot of well placed and clear signage. The airline lounges are a bonus for first/business/rewards passengers for resting and eating between transfers. The luggage lockers are protected by fingerprint and staff is readily available to help. They even have showers for those needing to refresh. Good and plentiful food. Noodle soup with a number of toppings; fruit such as watermelon and dragonfruit; rice, cooked vegetables, salads, and desserts. Drinks also available. Lounge was on 3rd and 4th floors. 3D massage chair was very relaxing. Did not want to get up. The only challenge was the handling of the baby stroller (which is referred to as carriage or baby carriage). We checked in before boarding but had to exit the airport/go through immigration to pick up at carousel then go through immigration back to re-enter the area for the departure gate.