SHANGHAI, May 22 (Xinhua) — In an effort to enhance convenience for inbound travelers, Shanghai has launched the Shanghai Pass, a versatile prepaid travel card designed for those who prefer traditional payment methods over mobile payment.
The Shanghai Pass, issued by Shanghai City Tour Card Development Co., Ltd., offers a maximum balance of 1,000 yuan (approximately 140 U.S. dollars) and can be utilized across various settings including public transportation, cultural and tourism venues, and shopping centers.
Travelers can easily obtain and recharge the card at Shanghai’s Hongqiao and Pudong airports, as well as major subway stations like the People’s Square Station. The card is accepted on buses, subways, taxis, ferries, and at popular tourist destinations such as the Shanghai Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Museum, and Shanghai Wild Animal Park.
Furthermore, cardholders have the option to request a refund for any remaining balance upon leaving the city. The convenience of the Shanghai Pass extends beyond Shanghai, as it can also be used for public transportation in several other cities across China, including Beijing, Guangzhou, Xi’an, Qingdao, Chengdu, Sanya, and Xiamen.
Recognizing the diverse needs of inbound tourists, particularly those who rely on traditional payment methods such as bank cards and cash, Chinese authorities have prioritized initiatives to streamline the tourism experience. Despite the prevalence of cashless and mobile payment systems in China, these measures aim to alleviate potential obstacles faced by foreign visitors.
Shanghai has seen a significant increase in inbound tourism, with 1.27 million visitors recorded in the first quarter of this year alone, marking a remarkable 250 percent year-on-year growth. The Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism anticipates welcoming approximately 5 million inbound tourists throughout the year.