How do I find the correct departure gate for my train?

From the hotel to Hongqiao Railway Station by walk with the total distance of about 8km? I think you need to take bus and metro to the train station. It's fine to enter from either side. At the Shanghai Hongqiao metro station, there are many bilingual signboard leading to the train station. And you should arrive at the train station at least 30min before the departure.

The station has a screen showing the trains that will depart. Find your train number and see which gate it says you need to go . Reach the departure gate by following the signage. For train departing at 08:26, you need to arrive there 08:00 the latest.

BTW, you can also collect your paper ticket on arrival, on which the boarding gate is printed.