Getting Around China

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

🚄

High-Speed Rail (高铁)

200-350 km/hLong distance between cities

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

如何预订

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

小贴士

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

🚇

Metro/Subway

30-80 km/hGetting around cities quickly

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

如何预订

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

小贴士

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.

🚗

Didi (Uber of China)

Varies by trafficDoor-to-door convenience

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

如何预订

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

小贴士

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

🚕

Traditional Taxi

Varies by trafficWhen you don't have app access

Traditional taxis are still available but less convenient than Didi.

如何预订

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

小贴士

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

🚲

Bike Sharing

10-20 km/hShort distances, sightseeing

Millions of shared bikes everywhere. Scan and ride!

如何预订

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

小贴士

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.

如何预订

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

小贴士

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.

Premium Content

Complete Metro Guide

Master China's subway system with detailed step-by-step tutorials

Complete Metro Guide for Foreigners

Unlock detailed step-by-step tutorials for using China's metro system: Metro app registration, QR code payments, city-specific tips for Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou & Shenzhen, etiquette guide, and troubleshooting common issues.

What You'll Learn:

📱

Metro Apps

🏙️

City Guides

Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen

🎯

Pro Tips

Etiquette, peak hours, emergency help

🔧

Troubleshooting

Fix common payment & access issues

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

← Back to Home Back to Home →