Public transportation in China

Public Transportation in China

China has one of the world's most extensive and efficient public transportation systems. Learn how to navigate metros, trains, and taxis like a local.

πŸš‡ Metro / Subway

Most major Chinese cities have modern metro systems. They're fast, cheap, and the easiest way to get around cities.

How to Use:

  • Payment: Use Alipay/WeChat Pay at gate, or buy a transportation card
  • Apps: Metro apps show routes and real-time arrivals (try Amap or local apps)
  • Hours: Usually 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM
  • Peak hours: 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM are very crowded

Tip: During rush hours, women-only carriages are available in some cities (marked with pink signs).

🚌 Buses

Buses complement metro networks and reach areas metros don't.

  • Payment: Alipay, WeChat Pay, or exact cash
  • Finding routes: Use Amap or Baidu Maps to plan bus journeys
  • Announcements: Most buses announce stops in Chinese and English
  • City buses: Usually 1-2 RMB, very affordable

πŸš„ High-Speed Trains

China's high-speed rail network is the world's largest. It's fast, comfortable, and often faster than flying (when you include airport time).

Classes:

  • G-Train: Fastest, up to 350 km/h
  • D-Train: Slower high-speed, up to 250 km/h

How to Book:

  • 12306: Official app and website (requires Chinese phone number)
  • Trip.com: International booking platform, English support
  • At station: Use automated machines with passport

πŸ’‘ Booking Tip: Book tickets 15 days in advance for popular routes. Second class seats sell out quickly.

πŸš— Didi (ζ»΄ζ»΄)

Didi is China's equivalent of Uber. It's the safest and most convenient way to take a taxi.

How to Use:

  • Download: Didi app (in English available)
  • Payment: Link Alipay, WeChat Pay, or foreign card
  • Features: Economy, Premium, and dedicated taxis
  • Communication: Driver can call you, or use in-app chat

Note: Didi drivers may not speak English. Have your destination written in Chinese characters.

πŸ’³ Transportation Cards

Transportation cards (δΊ€ι€šε‘) work for metro, buses, and some other transit. They offer discounts and faster entry.

  • Where to get: Metro stations, convenience stores
  • Deposit: Usually 20-50 RMB, refundable
  • Top up: At service counters or machines
  • Digital option: Add to Alipay for virtual card

πŸ’‘ Pro Tips

  • Download apps before arrival: Get Didi and map apps set up beforehand
  • Carry cash: Some situations still require it
  • QR codes everywhere: Have Alipay/WeChat ready for quick payment
  • Ask for receipts: Helpful if you need to claim expenses
  • Download offline maps: In case of poor connectivity

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