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Transform your business trip into something extraordinary with our carefully curated guide to Shanghai during CPHI & PMEC China. Whether you're looking to explore the city's rich culture, cuisine, and heritage, or to master the local business customs, we've got you covered with recommendations and insights.
Can you bring your phone from home to use in China? Yes, and there are a few options available to you.
Wi-Fi in China
If you don't have a Chinese phone number that can send/receive texts, you may not be able to log into the Wi-Fi everywhere. Here are some ways around that.
Plan on only using the free Wi-Fi at your hotel, which only requires a password. Connect your phone to networks using the methods mentioned above. Use a neat device like Skyroam that provides international Wi-Fi service for your devices at a very low cost.
More about internet
Having an internet connection in China is easy. However, you will not be able to use all the applications that you can use at home, such as Gmail. Therefore, you need to have a VPN to connect to a server outside of China and evade censorship.
Cash
It’s easy to get cash at the numerous ATMs throughout every city (more on that below), or you can exchange your foreign currency at the airport.
Credit cards
It’s easy to get cash at the numerous ATMs throughout every city (more on that below) or you can exchange your foreign currency at the airport.
Mobile payments (WeChat/Alipay)
Mobile payments can be used for large purchases or even to buy a piece of fruit from a street vendor. The 2 most popular mobile payment apps are WeChat and Alipay.
Both WeChat and Alipay have introduced the option of accepting foreign bank cards. After completing the inputting of your bank card, you can use Alipay or WeChat to make almost all your payments during your time in China.
Metros (recommended route)
For the Shanghai metro map, click here.
Taxis
Taxis are a convenient means of transportation in Shanghai. In busy areas like train stations, shopping malls, and major intersections, you’ll often find designated taxi stands.
Below we have listed two options for booking a taxi in Shanghai:
Using mobile apps:
Taxi hotlines in Shanghai:
If your Google Translate is not working in China, you may check some great alternatives, such as WAYGO, Microsoft Translator, Deepl, Dear Translator (有道翻译官), etc.
Start your CPHl & PMEC China journey with a smooth 4G experience. Pick up a China Telecom short‑term SIM as soon as you arrive at Shanghai Pudong (PVG). Quick, bilingual setup with high‑speed data, local minutes, 50 texts, and free incoming calls. Bring your passport for on‑the‑spot real‑name registration. Flexible 7, 15 or 30‑day plans to match your exhibition schedule.
Telecom Service Counter at PVG:
Terminal 2 (T2) One‑Stop Service Centre Diagonally opposite the left side of the International Arrivals exit. Open 24/7 year‑round, with dedicated counters for international short‑term SIMs and full English/Chinese support.
Terminal 1 (T1) China Telecom Service Hall Directly opposite the International Arrivals exit (Shanghai Pudong Yingbin Avenue Service Hall). Open 07:00–22:00 daily, with bilingual support for SIM setup and internet services.