Transportation in China

Navigate Chinese cities efficiently with comprehensive transport options

Transportation Options

Metro/Subway

Fast, clean, and efficient urban transport

Key Features

English announcements

Digital payment accepted

Extensive coverage

Air-conditioned

Travel Tips

Download metro apps
Rush hours: 7-9am, 5-7pm
Keep right on escalators
No food/drinks allowed

High-Speed Rail

World-class intercity travel experience

Key Features

300+ km/h speed

Comfortable seating

Punctual schedule

Multiple classes available

Travel Tips

Book tickets in advance
Arrive 30 mins early
Bring passport for booking
Download 12306 app

Taxis & Ride-sharing

Convenient door-to-door transportation

Key Features

DiDi ride-hailing app

GPS navigation

Mobile payment

English-speaking drivers available

Travel Tips

Use DiDi app for better rates
Show destination in Chinese
Keep hotel card handy
Confirm plate number

Public Buses

Economical way to explore cities

Key Features

Very affordable

Extensive routes

Night buses available

Electric/hybrid fleet

Travel Tips

Use transport apps for routes
Pay with mobile or transport card
Signal when getting off
Keep valuables secure

City-Specific Transportation

Beijing

Highlights

22 metro lines
Extensive bus network
Bike-sharing available
Traffic can be heavy

Special Tips

Avoid Line 1 during rush hour, use outer ring roads

Shanghai

Highlights

World's longest metro system
Maglev train to airport
Efficient taxi service
Well-integrated transport

Special Tips

Maglev train is tourist attraction itself, metro covers most areas

Guangzhou

Highlights

Clean and modern metro
BRT system
Pearl River ferries
Bike-friendly city

Special Tips

Metro connects to high-speed rail, ferries offer scenic routes

Shenzhen

Highlights

All-electric bus fleet
Integrated metro system
Cross-border transport to HK
Tech-forward features

Special Tips

Green transportation leader, easy connection to Hong Kong

📱 Essential Transportation Apps

Navigation & Maps

Baidu Maps (most accurate in China)
Google Maps (basic functionality)
Citymapper (major cities)

Ride-Hailing & Taxis

DiDi (Chinese Uber equivalent)
Uber (limited availability)
Cao Cao Chuxing (eco-friendly option)

Public Transport

12306 (train tickets)
Metro apps (city-specific)
Transport cards (mobile payments)