Public Transportation
Introduction
Public transportation in China is fast and extensive—especially in major cities. Subways, buses, and high-speed trains are often the most efficient way to get around. With a bit of preparation, navigating the system is easy even if you don’t speak Chinese.
Metro and Bus Systems in China
How to Use the Metro in China
Metro networks in cities like Beijing and Shanghai are fast and simple to navigate. Most stations have English signs and announcements, and ticket machines offer bilingual options. You'll need to tap in and out with a transit card or QR code, and go through a quick security check before boarding.
How to travel by bus in China
City buses in China are cheap and widely available, but they can be tricky for foreigners due to limited English signage. Most buses require exact fare or a local transit card—mobile payments work in some cities, but foreign cards aren’t always accepted. Stop names are announced in Chinese, so it helps to track your route using a map app.
Train Travel in China
Types of Trains in China and Seat Classes
China’s trains come in two types: high-speed (G, D, C) and regular services (Z, T, K). G trains are the fastest, D run slightly slower, and C trains serve short intercity routes. Regular services are categorized by letters reflecting speed and stops: Z trains are non-stop or direct, T are express with limited stops, and K are the slowest, with frequent stops along the way.
High-speed trains offer second class, first class, and business class seats—with business class being the most spacious and expensive. Regular trains have soft seats, hard seats, and sleeper berths, which are commonly used for long-distance or overnight travel.
How to Buy Train Tickets
Tickets can be purchased through official apps like 12306, third-party platforms such as Trip.com, or at train stations in person. Booking online is more convenient, especially for high-speed trains, and foreign passports are accepted on major platforms. Even if you book online, you’ll still need to show your passport at the station—ID checks are required before boarding.
What to Expect Onboard
High-speed trains are clean, modern, and usually punctual, with assigned seating and luggage racks above the seats. Regular trains are more basic—overnight rides often involve shared sleeper compartments, and onboard conditions can vary. Hot water, restrooms, and food carts are available on most trains, though most locals bring their own snacks.
Taxi and Ride-Hailing Services in China
How to Take a Taxi in China
Taxis are widely available in most Chinese cities, especially near hotels, train stations, airports and shopping areas. Fares are charged according to distance travelled and waiting time, measured by a meter on board. Not all drivers speak English, so it helps to have a screenshot of the destination's Chinese name or have it pinned in your map app.
How to Use Ride-Hailing Apps
Didi is the most widely used ride-hailing app in China and offers an English-language version for foreign users. You can book a ride by entering your pickup and drop-off points, then pay with a foreign credit card or mobile wallet. GPS and price estimates are built into the apps, so you don’t need to worry about drivers taking unnecessary detours.
Navigation Apps in China
Apps for Route Planning
It’s advisable for travelers to use local apps as they are more accurate and reliable. The two most commonly used are Amap (Gaode Maps) and Baidu Maps. Amap offers an English-language version and supports metro routes, bus transfers, walking navigation, and even ride-hailing within the same app. Baidu Maps has excellent walking directions and detailed building-level maps, but it’s only available in Chinese. So for most international travelers, Amap is easier to use and more accessible.
Related Travel Tips
Currency Tips
China is a largely cashless society, with mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay used almost everywhere. However, carrying a small amount of cash is still useful for taxis, markets, or rural areas. Foreign cards aren’t widely accepted, so it’s best to exchange some RMB upon arrival.
SIM Cards & Internet
Staying connected in China is easy—mobile networks are fast, widely available, and generally reliable. Purchasing a SIM card requires passport registration, and the process may differ from what travelers are used to in other countries. Some international apps may not function properly, so it’s a good idea to prepare your connectivity options in advance.
Packing Essentials
Packing for China can be tricky if it’s your first time visiting. Climate, tech access, and local habits can make a big difference in what you’ll need to pack. Bringing the right things helps you avoid hassles and travel more comfortably.
Essential Apps For China
From payments to navigation, apps are part of everyday life in China. Alipay and WeChat Pay handle most purchases, while Baidu Maps and Pleco help with directions and translation. Download the key apps before your trip and make sure they’re usable with your current phone setup.