Originally Posted by
spark787
FYI I almost got denied boarding at the gate when I flew into PVG (Pudong) and left via SHA (Hongqiao). I had to rummage through google to find any sort of document that looks official to the agent. However once I got to Pudong the customs didn't care.
That would be called TIMATIC which would be on the agent's screen
If you were 24 hour TWOV/TVOA you can have unlimited stops in China. If you were on 144 hour TWOV you can move freely within the regions included in the Shanghai area. Either way, fully compliant.
Originally Posted by
stringcheese
Just a follow up. We didn't have any problems in Ho Chi Minh regarding the TWOV. We told the gate agent our intention and she didn't have any issues even though we flew to Vietnam on a separate ticket. Once we arrived in Shanghai, we didn't have any issues either just a very long line with strict agents (not surprised). We also had a separate ticket flying from PVG to SEA. Personally, I would rather go to Hong Kong or Tokyo next time rather than deal with this policy. Not a huge fan of China.
The main advantage is if you want to visit China. Or if you want to take advantage of a good fare through China. Otherwise China isn't necessary a recommended transit/transfer place.