- Recommended
Qingdao Museum
A major city museum covering Qingdao history, folk culture, ceramics, and art, with modern galleries suitable for a broad first visit.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Shanghai to Qingdao
ChinaChina
Trains from Shanghai to Qingdao run on average 5 times per day, taking around 5h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€42) if you book in advance.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 13:47, the last at 17:03. The fastest train covers the 342 miles (551 km) distance in 4h 38m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 342 miles (551 km) |
Average train duration 5h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€42) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 4h 38m |
First train 1:47 PM |
Last train 5:03 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Live departures
Shanghai to Qingdao train times
The table below shows live departures for Shanghai to Qingdao trains for today, Thursday, October 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 G688 | 3:32 PM Shanghai Hongqiao | 5h18 | 8:50 PM Qingdao | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: China Railway from Shanghai to Qingdao trainsChina Railway trains will get you between Shanghai and Qingdao from $50 (€42). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
China Railway
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average China Railway Duration
4h 38m
Cheapest China Railway Price
$50 (€42)
China Railway frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Qingdao
Things to do in Qingdao
Discover the best of Qingdao — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Qingdao trip today.
- Recommended
Qingdao Naval Museum
A maritime museum near Lu Xun Park displaying naval history, ships, and sea-related exhibits that connect closely to Qingdao's port identity.
Qingdao Germany Prison Museum Site
A museum and memorial complex preserving the former prison site, presenting local modern history through cells, documents, and restored buildings.
- Must visit
May Fourth Square
A busy seafront square famous for city events, skyline views, and the iconic red sculpture, ideal for a first walk in modern Qingdao.
- Must visit
Qingdao Seaside Boardwalk
A scenic coastal boardwalk linking beaches, rocks, and viewpoints, popular for walking, jogging, and watching the sea along the urban shore.
- Recommended
Zhongshan Road
A pedestrian-friendly stretch in the historic center lined with preserved German-era buildings, boutiques, and easy access to nearby viewpoints.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Tsingtao Beer
Qingdao’s iconic pale lager, first brewed in 1903. Crisp and malty, it reflects the city’s brewing heritage and is the local drink visitors most associate with Qingdao.
Spicy Stir-Fried Clams
Fresh clams stir-fried with dried chili and aromatics. A classic Qingdao seafood dish that showcases the city’s coastal catch and bold Shandong flavors.
Youbao Daxia
Whole prawns quickly stir-fried with scallions, ginger, and light seasoning. Popular in Qingdao for emphasizing the sweetness of local shellfish.
The Flying Pavilion
Upscale dining inside a landmark historic hotel, offering refined Chinese and seafood dishes with elegant interiors and views of the old waterfront area.
Qingdao Beer Museum Restaurant
Popular beer hall near the brewery museum serving fresh Tsingtao beer and classic Qingdao seafood in a lively, casual setting.
Kaihai Restaurant
Established seafood restaurant known for fresh local catch, clams, prawns, and traditional Shandong flavors in a comfortable family-style dining room.
Chinese yuan (¥)
Moderate for China: hotels vary, local meals are cheap, seafood and tourist areas cost more, and metro or buses are low-cost.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- ¥20-40 for noodles, dumplings, or simple meals.
- Mid-range
- ¥80-150 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- ¥300+ per person for upscale seafood or hotel dining.
- Coffee
- ¥20-35 for a latte or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is generally not expected in restaurants, cafes, or taxis. Service charges may appear in hotels. Round up only for exceptional help.
FAQs: Trains from Shanghai to Qingdao
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Shanghai to Qingdao by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Qingdao, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Shanghai to Qingdao can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50 (€42), while the average price is around $58 (€49).
The train from Shanghai to Qingdao takes 4h 38m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Shanghai to Qingdao is 342 miles (551 km).
The first train from Shanghai to Qingdao leaves at 1:47 PM.
The last train from Shanghai to Qingdao leaves at 5:03 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Shanghai to Qingdao.
Yes, there is a direct train from Shanghai to Qingdao. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by China Railway.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Shanghai to Qingdao.
Yes, you can take the train from Shanghai to Qingdao.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
China uses the Chinese Yuan (CNY) as its currency. For travelers, using cards like UnionPay is widely accepted in cities, but cash is still essential in smaller towns and markets where card acceptance may be limited.
In Qingdao, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transportation. Common scams include inflated taxi fares and vendors offering counterfeit goods. It's advisable to agree on taxi prices beforehand or use metered taxis, and to buy souvenirs from reputable shops to avoid fraud. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Shanghai to Qingdao
Most Shanghai to Qingdao trains use the Shanghai Hongqiao to station pair. Use this guide to compare Shanghai and Qingdao train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Shanghai
Arrival train stations in Qingdao
Shanghai Hongqiao
Most popular train connections from Shanghai
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