Hold on to your metro passes, folks! Starting March 1, Shanghai Metro operator is rolling out some new rules that will make your ride smoother and safer. Here's everything you need to know before hopping on the subway this weekend:
No More Kid Limits
Great news for parents: You can now bring as many kids as you want for free! The old rule of "two kids max" is history. So, go ahead, bring the whole squad.
No limit to the number of children allowed for free on the metro.
Pack More, Worry Less
Planning to haul more than just a tiny handbag? Now you can carry up to 30 kilograms of luggage (up from 23kg). Time to pack that extra snack, book or souvenir without worrying about the weight!
Now you can carry up to 30 kilograms of luggage on the subway train.
E-Cigarettes? No
Yes, you read that right. E-cigarettes are banned on the metro train, alongside the usual suspects like regular cigarettes. We're all about fresh air — just not the kind that comes with clouds of smoke.
E-cigarettes are banned on the metro train.
No More Unwanted Performances
Street performers, we love your enthusiasm, but no more impromptu concerts or juggling acts in the metro. Also, no selling random stuff or begging for spare change. Let's keep the ride peaceful and free of distractions.
No impromptu performances, or peddling goods or begging.
Dangerous Goods? Big No-No
Don't even think about sneaking in those dangerous goods — we're talking about flammable, explosive or toxic substances (sorry, no chemistry experiments). Also, bikes and pets (other than guide dogs) are a hard pass.
A list of banned substances on the subway.
Keep It Clean
Keep the metro neat! No spitting or littering. And please, let's leave the chewing gum and fruit peels at home.
Use Equipment Properly
Don't damage or tamper with equipment. Always use escalators and ticket machines as intended. If you break it, you'll need to pay for it — simple as that! No messing with safety signs, buttons or switches — those are for emergencies only.
Don't damage or tamper with equipment.
Stay Respectable
Please, no barefooted or shirtless riders, or anyone who's intoxicated and causing a scene. Let's keep the subway a pleasant place for everyone.
Driver's Safety is Sacred
No messing with the driver! Interfering with the train's operation is a big no-no. If you love your ride, keep the driver happy and safe.
Don't mess with the driver's operation.
Priority Access for the VIPs
Pregnant? A senior? Got a baby in tow? You've got VIP boarding rights! Let others step aside while you make your way to the front.
Fines for Rule Breakers
Got a habit of breaking rules? You might end up with more than just a "tsk tsk." Fines are in the mix now, so play nice or pay the price!
Stay Cool in Emergencies
Emergencies happen. If something goes wrong, stay calm, listen to the staff, and follow the evacuation instructions. No need to panic (unless you're late for work, then we understand).
There's no need to panic in case of emergencies.
Behave, Please
No interfering with train operations, entering restricted areas or climbing over barriers. We're all for an adventurous spirit, but let's not get too creative with your metro acrobatics.
These changes are all about making your ride better. With these new rules, it's easy to see that Shanghai is making an effort to improve the metro experience for everyone. Let's be respectful, keep things smooth, and maybe even enjoy the ride a bit more!