Starting from December 20, two ferry lines will launch self-service ticketing. In many old Shanghaineses’ memories, Shanghai Ferry used to be the most important public transportation method between Puxi and Pudong. Ferries have also witnessed the changes in Shanghai's urban development and people’s lives.

However, people will never forget the history of using ferry tickets. As early as 1958, Shanghai Ferry used plastic chips as tickets, each valued at 0.06 yuan. It was not until 1990 that the value of the chip increased to 0.20 yuan.

There were also monthly passes. Initially, the first class and business class tickets looked different and the prices were not low in the 1940s. Later, the fares became reasonable, with monthly and annual passes available with more favorable prices.

Starting from the 1980s, the monthly passes were decorated with colored patterns.

Later, various kinds of electronic chips and electronic cards began to dominate the ferry stations. Electronic cards were launched in 1996, while electronic chips were first put into use in 2005.

The uniquely designed and colorful ferry tickets are like an encyclopedia of Shanghai Ferry’s history and the urban landscape. It is also a historical testimony of Shanghai's economic development.

(Photos/Shanghai Morning Post)