of some 270 meters. It is made out of polycarbonate and aluminium sunblades, and supported by 18 branch-shaped beams resting on 3 columns each. The steel structure weight is 6000 T, for 56 000 square meters, and a 150 m maximum span. The steel structure was built by Shanghai Jiangnan shipyard and erected by SMCC. The trains arrive below the waiting areas, which are not interrupted by the structure itself, which is roughly divided into three levels. The mid-level contains the station platforms, at the same rough height as ground level, and contains thirteen tracks and six passenger platforms. The VIP waiting section and the Public Security Office is also on this level. In addition the mid-level has direct access to the northern and southern squares. The upper level is the departure level. With a circumference of over 800 meters, the waiting area can fit over 10,000 passengers at any given time. Passenger tickets are also validated in this area. The lower level is the arrivals level, which contains various tunnels to exit the station and the waiting area of the Line 1 and Line 3 in the Shanghai Metro system. In the future it will also contain a transfer tunnel to the newly opened L1 Line as well as access to long-distance and tourist buses. The underground level of the North and South Squares has various commercial establishments and a parking lot. The soft-seat waiting area requires a soft-class train ticket to access. The seating in the area is generally more comfortable, and it is an enclosed area, with security personnel on shift at the entrances. The regular waiting area is in the middle of the station, and can house thousands of passengers. The VIP waiting area is only accessible with special identification, such as diplomatic documents. Shanghai South is serviced by Shanghai Metro Line 1 or Line 3 via the interchange station named after the train station, which is within walking distance of the train station. Transfer corridors in the station building allow indoor transfer between the train station and the metro station. See also Urban rail transit in China Shanghai North railway station References Citations Sources Shanghai Delta news Circular station is centre of attraction Shanghai South Railway Station External links Shanghai Train Guide - Timetables & Tips & Routes & Schedule Railway stations in Shanghai Railway stations in China opened in 1908 Railway stations in China