Quick answer: Each round targets one number. A single, double and triple of that number in one turn is a Shanghai and normally wins immediately.
Choose seven-round or twenty-round Shanghai
Seven-round Shanghai targets 1 through 7 and works well for groups because it finishes quickly. Full Shanghai continues 1 through 20 and tests the entire board. Create a scorecard with one column per active number and a running total. Decide who starts with a bull throw, then rotate the starting player in later games.
Every participant receives three darts in each round, even if someone previously scored zero. Only the current number counts. During round 6, triple 6 scores 18, single 6 scores 6 and a bull scores nothing. Remove and record darts after the turn.
Score the active wedge correctly
A single scores face value, a double scores twice face value and a triple scores three times. Thus single 5, double 5 and triple 5 total 30. The order of those hits does not matter. Three triples are worth nine times the round number but are not a Shanghai because they do not cover all three ring types.
Clarify whether both large single beds qualify; they normally do. Bounce-outs and darts in the wrong wedge score zero. If a dart's point position is disputed, the scorekeeper should call it before removal.
Recognize an instant Shanghai
A true Shanghai is one single, one double and one triple of the active number in the same three-dart turn. It normally ends the game immediately regardless of cumulative score. For example, in round 3, single 3, double 3 and triple 3 win. A double, triple and another double do not.
Some electronic boards use variations called Little Shanghai or Big Shanghai with different conditions. Use the game's displayed rules rather than assuming the traditional instant-win definition. In a home match, write 'instant Shanghai wins' on the scorecard if that condition is active.
Choose points or the Shanghai route
The first dart shapes the turn. If it lands in the single, the player can deliberately attempt double and triple for the win. If it lands in triple, the Shanghai remains available through single and double. If the first dart misses entirely, maximize points with the remaining darts because a Shanghai is impossible that turn.
Game position matters. A leader late in a seven-round match may favor the large single and triple rather than forcing the double. A player far behind should pursue the Shanghai because ordinary points may not close the gap. Use the lower-value early rounds to learn the target shape, then expect much larger swings in rounds 15 through 20.
Resolve ties and create fair variations
If no Shanghai occurs and final totals tie, use a one-round playoff on the next number when available or select a target by draw. Give each tied player three darts and repeat until the tie breaks after equal turns. State the playoff method before the final round.
For beginners, remove the instant-win condition or count any three scoring hits as a mini-Shanghai. For stronger players, require the single in a designated inner or outer bed, or play doubles-and-triples only. Avoid handicaps that secretly change scoring values; different finish conditions are easier to follow.
Turn the answer into a better game
Use the relevant tool or playing guide next instead of leaving the answer on the screen. You can play the Road to the Crown darts game, measure a lane with the setup calculator, or return to our dart boards homepage to compare board types and plan a complete setup.
Frequently asked questions
Does a Shanghai have to be hit in a particular order?
No. Single, double and triple of the active number can be hit in any order within the same three-dart turn.
Do three triples count as a Shanghai?
No. They score heavily, but a traditional Shanghai requires one single, one double and one triple.
How many rounds are in Shanghai darts?
Seven-round and twenty-round versions are common. Choose the length before play and use the corresponding numbered targets in order.
The Throw Lab verdict
Shanghai gives every player a clear target while preserving a dramatic comeback route. Choose the round length, score only the active wedge and define the traditional single-double-triple instant win before starting. The game rewards reading the first dart: pursue the missing rings when a Shanghai remains possible, then switch to reliable points after a miss. Seven rounds suit a party; twenty rounds create a complete-board test. Unlike a simple high-score game, Shanghai forces players to balance ring accuracy, cumulative position and the chance to end the match with one perfect visit.