Designed by Hermann Tilke with a layout inspired by the Chinese character 'shang' meaning above. The 3.39-mile circuit features the challenging back-to-back Turns 1-3 and a massive 1.17-km back straight.
Shanghai International Circuit is a permanent racing circuit, located in Shanghai. Drivers cover 5.451 km (3.387 miles) and 16 corners each lap, run clockwise.
The circuit opened in 2004 and holds FIA Grade 1 licensing. It appears on the Formula 1 calendar. Around 200,000 spectators can attend.
The city built it to be seen. Shanghai's authorities chose a site of swamp and rice paddy about 30 km north-west of downtown, hired Hermann Tilke, and put a reported $450 million and several thousand workers behind it. The ground was the hard part — the marshland needed extensive foundation work before anything could be laid on top — and the whole thing was finished in around eighteen months.
The layout traces the Chinese character shàng, from the city's name. Its best-known feature is the opening sequence, a corner that keeps tightening through almost 270 degrees before releasing onto the next straight, and a back straight of roughly 1.2 km. The first Chinese Grand Prix ran in 2004 and was won by Rubens Barrichello.
6 curated properties, sorted by distance from the circuit
HOTEL · $ · 9.2 km from circuit
Convenient hotel in Jiading district, the closest international chain to the Shanghai International Circuit. The drive to Shanghai International Circuit takes about 23 minutes (5.7 miles). Facilities include pool and restaurant.
Visit websiteHOTEL · 26.2 km from circuit
HOTEL · 34.6 km from circuit
Visit websiteHOTEL · 35.9 km from circuit
Visit websiteHOTEL · 38.0 km from circuit
HOTEL · $$$ · 47.0 km from circuit
Art deco palace on the Bund with Rolls-Royce fleet, the premier F1 paddock hotel in Shanghai. The drive to Shanghai International Circuit takes about 53 minutes (29.2 miles). Facilities include spa and pool.
Visit websiteNearest Airport: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) — approximately 55 km from the circuit
Metro Line 11 runs directly to Shanghai Circuit station, from where exit 6 leaves a five-minute walk north to the gates. Make sure you board a train bound for Huaqiao, as Line 11 branches. The line runs from about 05:30 to midnight.
Hotels near Shanghai International Circuit typically sell out 3-6 months before major race weekends, including the Formula 1 Grand Prix. For the best rates and widest selection, book as soon as race dates are officially confirmed. Early bookers can save 30-50% compared to last-minute rates.
Expect to pay $200-500 per night during race weekends, compared to $80-180 during off-peak periods. Properties within 5km of the circuit command the highest premiums. Consider hotels in Shanghai centre for better value — the slightly longer commute is offset by lower rates, more dining options, and a livelier atmosphere in the evenings.
Flexible cancellation policies are worth the small premium — race weekends can be rescheduled. Many hotels near Shanghai International Circuit offer free cancellation up to 48-72 hours before check-in during race weekends.
Visiting Shanghai International Circuit for a race weekend? Here are essential tips to make the most of your trip to Shanghai, Shanghai. The circuit holds up to 200,000 spectators, so plan for large crowds on race day.
Shanghai International Circuit is located in Shanghai, Shanghai. The nearest airport (PVG) is approximately 55 km away. Most hotels near the circuit are within a 5-30 minute drive.
We recommend browsing all 6 curated properties above to find the best match for your budget, travel style, and race weekend plans. Each property has been selected for its proximity to the circuit and quality of service.
Expect to pay $200-500 per night during major race weekends at Shanghai International Circuit, compared to $80-180 during off-peak periods. Booking 3-6 months in advance typically secures the best rates.
Yes, Shanghai International Circuit provides parking facilities for race weekend visitors. Parking fills up quickly on race day — arriving before 8am is recommended. Many visitors prefer to book hotels with parking included.
For the best rates and availability, book your accommodation 3-6 months before the Formula 1 Grand Prix at Shanghai International Circuit. Hotels within 10km of the circuit sell out first.