Shanghai Easy Go Platform: 2025 Tourist Review & Alipay Guide

Apps & Tech

8 min

2025-07-25

Forget everything you thought you knew about preparing for a trip to Shanghai. As of July 2025, the game has changed. The city has launched an official "master key" for foreigners: the Shanghai Easy Go platform. It lives inside Alipay and promises to bundle everything you need into one simple portal. But is it a true revolution or just good marketing? Before you download a dozen different apps, read our deep-dive guide.

What is the Shanghai Easy Go Platform?

The Shanghai Easy Go platform is not a standalone Easy Go Shanghai app. Instead, it's an official, all-in-one service portal launched by the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism in partnership with the Shanghai Service Office. Integrated directly into Alipay's international version. Launched by the government, its goal is to solve the "too-many-apps" problem for foreign visitors by gathering essential tourist services into one convenient, English-friendly mini-program.

How to Access the Shanghai Easy Go Platform

Step 1: Download Alipay app and Register

Search "Alipay" in App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
Download and Install the app.
Open it and Select "English" as your preferred language.
Register the app with your international phone number.

Step 2: Link bank card to Alipay

Click "Add Credit or Debit Card" Add now button to add your card.

Step 3: Switch to the "Easy Go" Platform

When you arrive in Shanghai (e.g., at Pudong airport), open Alipay then you can see "入境通 EASY GO" is located near the upper right corner of the Alipay homepage, as circled in red.

Pro Tip

If the city in the top-left corner doesn't automatically switch to Shanghai, try changing it manually. You should also check if Alipay has been granted location access permissions in your phone's settings.

A Look Inside: What the Easy Go Platform Offers

Think of it as your digital multitool for your trip. It consolidates all essential services into one convenient place, eliminating the need to download dozens of different applications. It's all built around a central hub providing quick access to core functions like Scan, Pay/Receive, and your digital Transport card.

Here's a breakdown of its main features:

Effortless Transportation (Traffic)
Getting around is a breeze. This section integrates ride-hailing (DiDi Travel), public transit information (SH MaaS), national train booking (Railway 12306), and even local bike-sharing services like HelloRide and Meituan Bike).
Delicious Discoveries (Food)
Hungry? The food section connects you to Meituan (China's largest food delivery platform), Tripadvisor for restaurant reviews, and even direct links to popular Western chains like Starbucks and McDonald's.
Endless Shopping (Shopping)
The shopping section links to Taobao (China's Amazon equivalent), i Bailian (a major department store chain), Tax Refunds services, and even Yu Garden for traditional souvenirs.
Tours & Entertainment (Tour)
The entertainment section offers Trip Tickets for attractions and Movies for cinema bookings.

The Verdict: The Good and The Not-So-Good (Refined)

The Good Stuff

✅ Official Support & Credibility: Being government-backed means it's reliable and trustworthy, not a third-party app that might disappear.
✅ Ultimate Convenience: One portal instead of downloading 10+ separate apps.
✅ 100% English-Friendly: Everything is fully translated and designed for international users.
✅ No Separate Download Required: If you already have Alipay (which you should for China), it's just a tap away.

The Refined Cons

❌ Interface & Local Service Limitations: While it's a convenient hub, each service still operates with its own interface and learning curve. Some services still require Chinese verification for full functionality.
❌ Jack of All Trades, Master of None: For specialized needs (like detailed restaurant reviews or advanced transport options), dedicated apps still offer more features.

The Big Question: Should You Use It? (Upgraded Advice)

For Shanghai-only travelers: Strongly recommended. It's the perfect all-in-one solution that will cover 90% of your needs.
For multi-city China explorers: Highly recommended. While it's Shanghai-focused, many of the integrated services (DiDi, Meituan, etc.) work nationwide.
For savvy travelers or foodies: Recommended as a starting point, but consider supplementing with specialized apps for your particular interests.

The Shanghai Easy Go platform represents a significant step forward in making China more accessible to international visitors. While not perfect, it dramatically reduces the digital hurdles that have traditionally made travel challenging. Our recommendation: make it your starting point, and then add specialized apps only if you find you need them.

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