Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
The Shanghai Comic Convention (SHCC) is a premier event dedicated to the vibrant world of comics, gaming, and pop culture. Scheduled for November 23-25, 2026, at the SHICC in Shanghai, this convention promises a unique experience for fans and exhibitors alike.
With a focus on the latest trends in comics and gaming, attendees can expect a rich program of activities, guest appearances, and exclusive merchandise. Shanghai Comic Convention takes place in Shanghai, China.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: Shanghai Comic Convention runs from November 23 to 25, 2026 at SHICC, Shanghai, China.
- 2Scale and Focus: This event showcases the latest in comics, gaming, and pop culture, attracting fans and exhibitors from across the globe.
- 3Organiser: The event is organised by Cool Expo Culture, a leader in the comic and gaming exhibition space.
- 4Buyer Authority: Attendees include comic book enthusiasts, gamers, and pop culture fans, influencing trends and purchases.
- 5Entry: Tickets will be available soon; check the official website for updates.
Why visit
Attendees will have the opportunity to meet their favorite creators, participate in engaging panels, and discover exclusive merchandise. The convention is a hub for networking with industry professionals and fellow fans, making it a must-visit for anyone passionate about comics and gaming.
Why exhibit
Exhibitors will gain unparalleled access to a dedicated audience of comic and gaming enthusiasts, providing a platform to showcase new products and engage with fans. This event showcases the latest in comics, gaming, and pop culture, attracting fans and exhibitors from across the globe. The event is organised by Cool Expo Culture, a leader in the comic and gaming exhibition space. Attendees include comic book enthusiasts, gamers,.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Comic book fans looking for exclusive merchandise
Gamers interested in the latest gaming trends
Cosplay enthusiasts showcasing their creativity
Families seeking fun activities and entertainment
Collectors searching for rare items
Pop culture aficionados eager to meet creators
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Comic publishers showcasing new releases
Gaming companies presenting upcoming titles
Merchandise vendors selling collectibles
Cosplay costume designers and retailers
Artists offering commissions and prints
Entertainment companies promoting films and series
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Comic books and graphic novels
Video games and board games
Merchandise related to popular franchises
Cosplay costumes and accessories
Art prints and collectibles
Toys and action figures
Location & Facilities
Venue
SHICC
Shanghai Shi, China
Facilities
Parking
SHICC in Shanghai typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: SHICC in Shanghai typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at SHICC for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
How the last edition performed
Previous edition
New this edition
- 1
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No verified post-show recap or new-feature list for the previous edition was captured from comiccon.com.cn at the time of enrichment. Check the official site for announced hall changes, guest additions or programme updates for 2026 rather than relying on unverified summaries.
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Shanghai, China
Why it matters
Attendees will have the opportunity to meet their favorite creators, participate in engaging panels, and discover exclusive merchandise. The convention is a hub for networking with industry professionals and fellow fans, making it a must-visit for anyone passionate about comics and gaming.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · CNY
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport
PVG is Shanghai's main international gateway and the most practical arrival point for overseas visitors. Taxi, ride-hail, Maglev plus Metro Line 2, and airport buses connect to the Lujiazui and SHICC area. Allow extra time during weekday peak hours
Approx. 30 km
to venue
40-50 min in normal traffic
by car
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport
SHA handles many domestic and regional flights and is closer to central Shanghai. Metro Line 2 and Line 10 connect to the city network; a taxi to SHICC is usually shorter than from PVG but still subject to traffic
Approx. 20 km
to venue
30-40 min in normal traffic
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Wanfeng Business Hotel
Pudong, near SHICC
Approx. nightly range for a standard room during the show week. Confirm taxes, breakfast and cancellation policy before booking.
Furao Zhixuan Hotel (Lujiabang Road Subway Station Branch)
Huangpu, Lujiabang Road metro area
Approx. nightly range for a mid-range room. The Lujiabang Road area has metro access with a transfer to Line 2 for SHICC.
Kyriad Marvelous Hotel
Shanghai city-wide listing near SHICC
Approx. nightly range for a mid-range business room. Verify the exact address and travel time to SHICC before booking.
Lujiazui riverside business hotel (typical international brand)
Lujiazui, Pudong
Approx. nightly range for a four-star international-brand room in Lujiazui during a late-November event week. Rates rise during major city events; book a refundable rate early.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
metro
Estimated costApprox. CNY 3-7 per single journey (confirm fares)
Best forShanghai Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui or Dongchang Road area for SHICC
Line 2 connects PVG, Hongqiao and central Shanghai to the Lujiazui area. Use the Shanghai Metro app or a journey planner for step-by-step routes and last-train times.
maglev
Estimated costApprox. CNY 50 one way for the Maglev single journey (confirm fares)
Best forPVG to Longyang Road, then metro or taxi to SHICC
The Maglev is the fastest rail option from PVG to the Longyang Road interchange, but you still need a metro or taxi connection to SHICC. It is not a direct venue service.
taxi
Estimated costApprox. CNY 170-220 by meter (confirm with driver)
Best forShanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) to SHICC
Allow 40-50 minutes in normal traffic. Use the official taxi queue at PVG and confirm the meter is running; ride-hail pickup points may be in a different terminal zone.
taxi
Estimated costApprox. CNY 80-120 by meter (confirm with driver)
Best forShanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) to SHICC
Allow 30-40 minutes in normal traffic. SHA is closer to the city centre, but weekday congestion around the elevated roads can extend the trip.
airport bus
Estimated costApprox. CNY 20-30 per person (confirm route and fare)
Best forPVG airport bus to central Shanghai / Lujiazui area
Airport buses are cheaper than taxis but less frequent and may not stop at the SHICC door. Check the route map and last departure time before choosing this option.
ride-hail
Estimated costApprox. CNY 180-240 from PVG in normal traffic (app quote)
Best forPVG or central Shanghai hotel to SHICC by Didi or app-based car
Ride-hail is widely used in Shanghai. Set the pickup point carefully at PVG and SHICC, and keep the app quote visible in case of disputes.
parking
Estimated costApprox. CNY 10-15 per hour, daily cap around CNY 80-120 (confirm venue rates)
Best forSHICC on-site or nearby commercial parking
On-site parking at major Shanghai venues fills early during popular events. Confirm the exact SHICC car park entrance and daily cap before driving.
Weather
Mid-to-late November in Shanghai is late autumn: daytime highs usually 15-20 C, nights 9-13 C, with grey and damp spells possible. Rain is not constant but a compact umbrella and a light jacket are sensible for the 23-25 November 2026 show week. Check the forecast five days before travel for the latest conditions.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
China uses 220V with plug types A, C and I; bring a universal adapter for laptops, phones and demo equipment. A local eSIM or SIM is available at PVG, but installing WeChat and Alipay before arrival makes payments, maps and ride-hailing easier. Venue Wi-Fi may require SMS verification, so keep a roaming data plan as backup. Download offline Shanghai maps and a translation app, and check your home carrier's roaming and VPN requirements before travel.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Visa and entry
China operates a 240-hour visa-free transit policy at selected ports, and business travellers normally use the M visa, which requires a passport, application form and invitation letter. Check the State Council Visit China page and Chinese embassy notices for current rules. Carry your passport, hotel registration and any organiser invitation during the trip.
Currency and payments
The local currency is the Chinese yuan (CNY, also shown as RMB). Mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used, so link an international card before arrival and keep some cash for smaller vendors or older taxis.
Tipping and etiquette
Tipping is not standard in Shanghai restaurants or taxis. For business meetings, a light handshake is common; bring digital or printed business cards and avoid sensitive political topics. Queueing and quiet carriage rules on the metro are generally observed.
Language
Mandarin is the main language in Shanghai, with some English spoken at international hotels and major venues. Carry a translation app, save your hotel address in Chinese characters and use metro signage in English where available.
Registration and arrival
Confirm visitor registration and badge collection with the organiser before travelling, and arrive early on the first show day to allow for ID and security checks at SHICC. Keep a screenshot of your registration and hotel booking offline.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: PVG
Sample round-trip economy fares for a 23-27 November 2026 Shanghai Pudong (PVG) itinerary were captured on 20 October 2026: Singapore SIN from about CNY 2,105 with Hainan (one stop); Tokyo NRT from about CNY 2,614 with Spring; Sydney SYD from about CNY 5,194 with Philippine Airlines (one stop); New York JFK from about CNY 6,376 with Asiana (one stop via ICN); London LHR nonstop with British Airways or China Southern from about CNY 6,467; Dubai DXB nonstop with Emirates from about CNY 7,110. Fares are per adult, include taxes and fees at capture time, and can change quickly. Recheck before booking, compare Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA) only if the fare gap is material, and allow for checked-bag fees on low-cost carriers.
Visa
Most foreign business visitors to mainland China require a visa before travel; the M (business/trade) visa is the standard category for commercial and trade purposes. China also operates a 240-hour visa-free transit policy for eligible nationalities passing through to a third country, and an online COVA application system was launched at Chinese missions including the Embassy in the United States on 30 September 2025.
Processing: Varies by nationality; apply several weeks before travel.
M visa applications typically require a passport, a completed application form and an invitation letter. Rules differ by nationality and by Chinese mission, so check the embassy or consulate covering your place of residence. Source pages: China State Council Visit China portal (https://english.www.gov.cn/services/visitchina/), Chinese Embassy in the U.S. COVA notice (https://us.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/lsfw/zj/notice/202509/t20250920_11712385.htm), Beijing municipal M visa guidance (https://english.beijing.gov.cn/serviceguides/personalservice/visa/202404/t20240417_3620950.html).
OfficialTransport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG): 40-50 min in normal traffic; Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA): 30-40 min in normal traffic. Allow road or rail time to SHICC; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near SHICC: Pudong, near SHICC: Wanfeng Business Hotel; Huangpu, Lujiabang Road metro area: Furao Zhixuan Hotel (Lujiabang Road Subway Station Branch); Shanghai city-wide listing near SHICC: Kyriad Marvelous Hotel.
Ride-hail: Didi is the dominant ride-hail app in Shanghai, with service also available through Alipay and WeChat mini-programs. Set your pickup point carefully at PVG and SHICC, because large venues often have designated app-car zones rather than kerbside pickup. Keep the app quote visible and avoid unlicensed drivers who approach you inside terminals.
Public transit: Shanghai Metro Line 2 is the main link between PVG, Hongqiao and the Lujiazui area near SHICC. Use a metro card or the Shanghai Metro app for tickets and route planning. Buses are cheaper but slower and less useful for first-time visitors. Allow extra time during weekday peak hours and check last-train times if you stay late at the show.
Parking: SHICC has on-site parking, but spaces fill quickly during popular events. Expect approximately CNY 10-15 per hour with a daily cap around CNY 80-120; confirm current rates and the correct car park entrance with the venue. Nearby commercial garages in Lujiazui are an alternative, but walk time to the hall can be 10-15 minutes.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: November 2026
Temperature: Approx. 9-20 C; daytime highs usually 15-20 C, nights 9-13 C
Seasonality: Late autumn in Shanghai can be grey and damp, with occasional rain rather than a distinct monsoon season. Humidity is moderate and evenings feel cool; check a five-day forecast before packing.
Packing: Pack a light jacket or trench coat, layers for cool evenings, a compact umbrella and comfortable walking shoes for the halls and metro. Bring a universal power adapter for China's 220V Type A/C/I sockets, a power bank for long show days, and a small bag for merchandise and artist prints.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at Shanghai Comic Convention usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
14 days before
Confirm registration and ticket type — Check comiccon.com.cn for your order status, badge collection method and any required ID. Do not rely on third-party resale tickets.
12 days before
Book hotel and check cancellation terms — Late November is a normal business travel period in Lujiazui; reserve a refundable room near a Metro Line 2 station if you want flexibility.
10 days before
Check visa or visa-free transit eligibility — Confirm whether you need an M visa or can use China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy. Carry an onward ticket and hotel booking if using transit.
7 days before
Plan your show schedule — Review the official programme for panels, signings, screenings and stage times. Prioritise limited-capacity sessions and leave buffer time between halls.
5 days before
Prepare cosplay and prop documentation — Read the official prop policy, measure large items and print any approval email. Pack costume repair tape, safety pins and a small sewing kit.
3 days before
Set up payments and connectivity — Install WeChat and Alipay, link an international card, download an offline Shanghai map and check your roaming or eSIM plan.
1 day before
Check weather and transport — Review the forecast for 23-25 November, confirm metro or taxi routes to SHICC and charge power banks for a full show day.
Show day 1
Arrive early for badge and security checks — SHICC entry can involve ID checks and bag screening. Arrive 60-90 minutes before your first must-see panel on the opening day.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at SHICC
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2Shanghai Comic Convention registration concourse
SHICC
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
SHICC
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nightsCN¥190.00
- Per diem × 2CN¥150.00
Estimated totalCN¥340.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether Shanghai Comic Convention fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
For Shanghai Comic Convention, what is your primary role on the show floor?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus and target suppliers align with the official exhibitor profile.
Best for
Buyers, engineers, and delegates sourcing Comic books and graphic novels and Video games and board games solutions and benchmarking suppliers at Shanghai Comic Convention in Shanghai.
Min. budget
$450.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration, hotels, and travel.
Risks
Session times and ticket tiers may change - confirm the official agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a defined lead-generation or distributor recruitment goal for this market.
Best for
Brands and manufacturers launching Comic books and graphic novels and Video games and board games products who need qualified meetings with the event's trade audience.
Min. budget
$2,200.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, staffing, and pre-show marketing.
Risks
Booth pricing and corner premiums vary by hall - confirm with the organiser sales team.
skip
Audience, geography, or commercial goals do not justify travel and stand costs this cycle.
Best for
Teams with weak category fit, budget constraints, or overlapping commitments during the Shanghai show week.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Skipping may mean missing buyer meetings if competitors exhibit or attend the same week.
Gallery
Photos
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
Glossary
- ACG
- Anime, Comic and Games - the three content pillars most Shanghai Comic Con exhibitors and fans use when describing the show floor.
- Artist Alley
- A dedicated zone where independent illustrators, comic artists and small presses sell prints, zines and original artwork directly to visitors.
- Cosplay
- Costume play based on anime, comic, game or film characters; cosplayers are a core visitor segment at SHCC and often use designated photo areas and changing rooms.
- Doujinshi
- Self-published comics, art books or fan works, typically sold in Artist Alley or small-press booths rather than by mainstream publishers.
- Guest of Honor
- A featured creator, voice actor, illustrator or studio representative invited by the organiser for panels, signings or stage appearances.
- IP licensing
- The business of licensing characters, brands or story rights for merchandise, publishing, games, animation or location-based entertainment; a key conversation topic for exhibitors at a comic and pop-culture show.
- Main exhibition hall
- The primary paid or badge-access hall at SHICC where publisher, toy, collectible, game and merchandise booths are located.
- Panel
- A scheduled stage or seminar session featuring guests, studios or publishers, usually followed by audience Q&A.
- Photo op
- A paid or ticketed photo session with a featured guest, or a free photo point with a branded installation or cosplay backdrop.
- Screening
- A scheduled viewing of an anime episode, film or trailer, often used by studios to promote upcoming releases.
- Booth
- An exhibitor's assigned floor space; at SHCC booth types range from small press tables to custom-built brand installations.
- Badge
- The credential worn by visitors, exhibitors, press and guests; badge collection usually requires ID and a registration confirmation.
- Fan meet
- A shorter, more informal meet-and-greet with a creator or voice actor, sometimes separate from a main stage panel.
- Prop check
- A security review of cosplay weapons and large props before entry; organisers usually publish size and material rules in advance.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- Shanghai Comic Convention 2026
- Shanghai Comic Convention Shanghai Shi 2026
- Shanghai Shi China
- Comic Convention Convention Shanghai Shi
- Comic books and graphic novels
- Shanghai China
- Comic Convention Shanghai 2026
- Video games and board games
- Merchandise related to popular franchises
- Cosplay costumes and accessories
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.