China has one of the most advanced and efficient transportation systems in the world. However, the system works differently from many other countries, especially when it comes to payments and apps.
Public Transportation Within Cities
Metro (Subway)
The metro is the easiest, fastest, and most tourist-friendly way to move around major Chinese cities. Cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, and Hangzhou have extensive metro networks covering almost all major attractions.
- Cost: Usually between ¥ 3–8 (USD 0.40–1.10) per ride, depending on distance.
- How to pay: Alipay or WeChat Pay QR codes, metro apps, or ticket machines.
- Why it’s good for tourists: Clear station layouts, English station names, and frequent trains.
City Buses
Buses cover areas not reached by metro and are extremely cheap, but they can be challenging for tourists due to Chinese-only signage.
- Cost: Around ¥ 1–3 (USD 0.15–0.40) per ride.
- How to pay: Scan QR codes via Alipay/WeChat Pay or use transportation cards.
- Best for: Short distances or areas outside metro coverage.
Taxis
Taxis are widely available in all cities and are regulated with meters.
- Cost: Starting fare usually ¥ 10–14 (USD 1.50–2), increasing per kilometer.
- How to pay: Alipay, WeChat Pay, or cash (less common).
- Tip: Always have your destination written in Chinese.
DiDi (Ride-Hailing)
DiDi is China’s version of Uber and one of the most convenient transport options for tourists.
- Cost: Slightly higher than taxis but still affordable.
- How to pay: Alipay or international bank cards.
- Best for: Airport transfers, late-night travel, or moving with luggage.
Transportation Between Cities in China
High-Speed Trains (Bullet Trains)
China’s high-speed rail network is the best way to travel between cities. Trains are fast, comfortable, and punctual.
- Cost:
Beijing–Shanghai: ¥ 550–700 (USD 75–95)
Shanghai–Hangzhou: ¥ 80–150 (USD 11–20)
- How to pay: Trip.com, Alipay, WeChat Pay, or international cards.
- Travel time: Often faster than flying when considering airport time.
- Tip: Arrive early for security checks and passport verification.
Regular Trains
Slower than high-speed trains but cheaper, especially for overnight trips.
- Cost: 30–50% cheaper than bullet trains.
- Seat types: Hard seat, soft seat, and sleeper beds.
- How to pay: Book and pay via Trip.com, Chinese railway apps, Alipay, WeChat Pay, or international bank cards.
- Best for: Budget travelers or long-distance overnight trips.
Domestic Flights
Flights are useful for very long distances, such as traveling from eastern China to western regions.
- Cost: Prices vary widely; budget flights can start from USD 50–100.
- How to pay: Trip.com, airline websites, Alipay, or international cards.
- Downside: Airport security and delays can make flights less efficient than trains.
Long-Distance Buses
Used mainly for rural areas or destinations not connected by rail.
- Cost: Very affordable but slower.
- Comfort: Varies significantly.
- How to pay: Usually paid via Alipay, WeChat Pay, or in some cases cash at the station.
- Note: Not recommended for first-time visitors unless no other transport options are available.
Cities with the Easiest Transportation for Tourists
Shanghai
A city with the most tourist-friendly transportation system in China, with one of the world’s largest metro networks. Almost all stations have English signage, clear maps, and direct airport and train connections, making navigation very easy.
Beijing
Beijing offers an extensive subway system that connects major historical landmarks such as the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven. Station names and announcements are available in English, which helps first-time visitors.
Shenzhen
Also known for its modern, clean, and highly efficient transport system. The metro is well-organized, easy to understand, and seamlessly connected to Alipay and WeChat Pay for quick access.
Guangzhou
It has a reliable metro network and is a major transportation hub in southern China. It offers excellent high-speed train connections to nearby cities like Shenzhen and Hong Kong.
Hangzhou
This city features a simpler city layout with a modern metro system. Clear signage and compact attractions make it easy for tourists to explore independently.
What to Prepare Before Visiting China
- Set up Alipay and link your international bank card before arriving. Most payments in China rely on QR codes, and setting up Alipay in advance ensures you can pay for transportation, food, and shopping immediately upon arrival.
- Download essential transport apps like Amap, Trip.com, and DiDi. These apps help you navigate cities, book trains and hotels, and order rides easily, especially since many services are not accessible without local apps.
- Carry your passport at all times, especially when using trains, domestic flights, or checking into hotels. Passport checks are frequent, and you may need it to enter stations, attractions, or verify bookings.
- Install a reliable VPN if you need access to global apps. Popular apps and websites like Google, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Gmail are blocked, so a VPN must be installed and tested before entering China.
- Bring a CCC-certified power bank, as airport and train security may confiscate power banks without a visible CCC (China Compulsory Certification) logo. A power bank is essential since you’ll rely heavily on mobile apps throughout the day.
- Prepare a travel eSIM, as stable internet access is critical for maps, payments, translations, and ride-hailing. Having mobile data from day one will make traveling around China much smoother and less stressful. Even better, Eskimo eSIM is now offering a free 500MB global data trial to use in 109 countries, including China.
FAQs
Do transportation services operate late at night?
Metro systems usually stop around late evening, but taxis and ride-hailing services remain available 24 hours in most major cities.
How early should I arrive at train stations or airports?
It’s recommended to arrive at least 45–60 minutes early for trains and 2–3 hours early for domestic flights due to security checks and ID verification.
Are there luggage size limits on trains and public transport?
Yes, trains have luggage size and weight limits, but enforcement is generally flexible unless you carry very large or excessive items.
