Shenzhen and Shanghai ban smoking on high-speed rail platforms and bus stops. Fines: 50-500 RMB. Report violators via 'Don't Smoke' mini-program or 12345.
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Source: OT-Team(G), 光明网, 第一现场
A heated debate has recently emerged in China over whether smoking should be allowed on high-speed rail platforms and at bus stops. While national standards vary, two major cities — Shenzhen and Shanghai — have taken clear and strict measures to ban smoking in these public transit areas.
Shenzhen: All High-Speed Rail Platforms Are Smoke-Free
In response to public discussion, a reporter contacted the 12306 customer service hotline (Guangzhou Railway Customer Service Center). The operator confirmed that while there is currently no mandatory smoking ban on railway platforms under Guangzhou Railway's jurisdiction, there are also no designated smoking areas. They added that public feedback would be forwarded to relevant departments.
However, in Shenzhen, the rules are unambiguous. According to the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone Smoking Control Ordinance, all outdoor platforms of high-speed rail and train stations, as well as queuing areas, are designated smoke-free zones. The city's Smoke-Free Venue Construction Standards further clarify that smoke-free areas include:
(1)I ndoor workplaces, indoor public spaces, and public transport
(2) Within five meters of pedestrian entrances and exits of public transport terminals
(3) Outdoor public transport platforms and queuing areas
This means that high-speed rail platforms in Shenzhen — including Shenzhen North Station, Futian Station, and Shenzhen Station — fall under the smoking ban. The same applies to metro station entrances, bus stops, parks serving pregnant women and children, and outdoor sports venues.
Penalties in Shenzhen:
(1) Smoking in prohibited areas: 50 RMB fine (collected on the spot)
(2) Refusing to correct the behavior: 200 RMB fine
(3) Obstructing law enforcement or other serious violations: 500 RMB fine
Citizens are encouraged to report violations through the "Don't Smoke" (别抽啦) mini-program by uploading photos.
Shanghai: Smoking Banned at Bus Stops – Fines Up to 200 RMB
Shanghai has also stepped up enforcement. Recently, clear no-smoking signs have appeared at bus stops across the city, stating: "Maximum fine for individuals: 200 RMB," along with complaint hotline 12345 and quitline 12320. The signs are issued by the Shanghai Municipal Health Promotion Commission.
According to Shanghai's Public Places Smoking Control Ordinance, waiting areas of public transport where people gather are legally designated smoke-free zones. Individuals caught smoking in these areas who refuse to stop may face fines ranging from 50 to 200 RMB. Those who disturb public order or obstruct law enforcement may face police action or criminal liability.
The 2026 Shanghai Smoking Control Work Priorities outlines a citywide effort to designate bus stops as statutory smoke-free zones, including posting uniform signs, public health campaigns, and removing ashtrays from stops.
Other smoke-free areas in Shanghai include:
(1) Children's palaces, schools, kindergartens, and child welfare institutions
(2) Maternal and child health hospitals, children's hospitals
(3) Stadiums and performance venue seating areas
(4) Cultural heritage protection sites
Even outdoor concerts and large-scale events are smoke-free.
Regarding "smoking while walking," authorities say this falls under behavioral advocacy rather than legal prohibition. However, given the harm of secondhand smoke to those nearby, citizens are encouraged to use designated smoking points away from crowds.
Enforcement and Support:
Report violations via 12345 or the "Smoking Control Heatmap" mini-program
For quitting support, call 12320 or visit a professional smoking cessation clinic
Train platform? Bus stop? Sidewalk? Which public areas do you think should also be added to the no-smoking list? Share your thoughts and experiences with us!
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