Getting Around China

From high-speed rail to bike-sharing, here's your complete transport guide

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High-Speed Rail

200-350 km/hLong distance between cities

China has the world's largest high-speed rail network. It's fast, punctual, and comfortable.

How to Book

Use Trip.com or China Highlights (English friendly), download 12306 app (Chinese, official), buy at train station with passport, book 15-30 days in advance for popular routes

Tips

Arrive 30 minutes early for security check. Keep passport handy - required for boarding. Second class seats are comfortable and affordable. Business class = luxury, First class = spacious, Second class = standard

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Metro/Subway

30-80 km/hGetting around cities quickly

Major cities have extensive metro systems. Clean, efficient, and cheap.

How to Book

Buy single-ride tickets at machines (cash or mobile pay), get a transit card for multiple rides, use Alipay/WeChat transit QR codes, download metro app for your city

Tips

Avoid rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM). Shanghai and Beijing metros have English signage. Keep belongings secure - crowded during peak times. Some stations have security checks.

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Didi (Uber of China)

Varies by trafficDoor-to-door convenience

Didi is China's ride-hailing app. Works like Uber but with more options.

How to Book

Download Didi app (Didi-Greater China for English), register with foreign phone number, link credit card or pay with WeChat/Alipay, input destination and choose ride type

Tips

Have your destination in Chinese ready. Express = budget, Premier = comfort, Lux = premium. Peak hours have surge pricing. Some drivers may call to confirm location.

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Traditional Taxi

Varies by trafficWhen you don't have app access

Traditional taxis are still available but less convenient than Didi.

How to Book

Hail on street or at taxi stands, hotel concierge can help book, ensure meter is running, pay with cash or mobile payment

Tips

Have destination written in Chinese. Taxi drivers rarely speak English. Some may refuse foreigners - be patient. Get a receipt if needed.

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Bike Sharing

10-20 km/hShort distances, sightseeing

Millions of shared bikes everywhere. Scan and ride!

How to Book

Use Meituan Bike, Hello Bike, or DiDi Bike apps, scan QR code on bike, unlock and ride, park in designated areas and lock

Tips

Very cheap - about 1-2 RMB per 30 mins. Must park in designated zones (green zones on app). Watch for traffic - bikes share roads with cars. Helmets not commonly used but recommended.

✈️

Domestic Flights

800+ km/hVery long distances (1500km+)

Good for cross-country travel but trains are often better for medium distances.

How to Book

Use Trip.com, Ctrip, or airline websites, compare prices across platforms, book early for better prices, check luggage allowances carefully

Tips

Airports are often far from city centers. High-speed rail may be faster for routes under 1000km. Delays are common - build in buffer time. Keep electronics easily accessible for security.

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Essential Transport Apps

12306

Chinese only

Official train booking app

Trip.com

English

English-friendly booking platform

滴滴

English available

Ride-hailing app

高德地图

Chinese only

Better than Google Maps in China

MetroMan

English

Metro maps for major cities

美团

Mostly Chinese

Bike sharing + food delivery

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