Kurokun Posted on 2026-5-22 10:45:30

Getting Around China: Metro, High-Speed Rail & Didi Guide (2025–2026)

Stay2CN Guide | First 72 Hours — Getting Around | Updated May 2026

China's transportation infrastructure is world-class. Here's how to navigate it like a local.

Metro / Subway
• Available in all major cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Xi'an, Hangzhou, etc.)
• English signage is standard in tier-1 and tier-2 cities
• Payment: Use Alipay or WeChat transit QR code — just tap and go
• Cost: ¥2–10 per ride depending on distance
• Tickets: Single-trip tickets available at machines with English interface
• Download MetroMan app for offline subway maps

High-Speed Rail (HSR)
China's HSR network is the largest and fastest in the world.

Booking:
• Trip.com — Full English, easiest for foreigners
• 12306.cn — Official site (Chinese only; foreigners can register with passport)
• Station counters — bring passport

Train Types:
• G-train: Fastest (~300 km/h)
• D-train: Fast (~250 km/h)
• C-train: Intercity

Popular Routes:
• Beijing → Shanghai: 4.5 hrs, ¥550–650
• Beijing → Xi'an: 4.5–5.5 hrs, ¥520–650
• Shanghai → Hangzhou: 45–60 min, ¥73–93
• Chengdu → Chongqing: 1.5–2 hrs, ¥120–160

Tips:
• Book 15–30 days ahead for popular routes
• Arrive 30 minutes before departure
• Passport required for booking AND boarding

DiDi (Ride-Hailing)
• Download the DiDi app — English version available
• Also accessible via WeChat/Alipay mini-programs
• Very affordable: city rides typically ¥10–30
• You can choose "Express" (cheaper) or "Premier" (nicer car)

Taxis
• Readily available everywhere
• Insist on using the meter
• Most drivers do NOT speak English — have your destination in Chinese
• Starting fare: ¥8–14 depending on city

Bike Sharing
• Meituan (yellow) and Qingju (green) bikes everywhere
• Scan with Alipay or WeChat — ¥1.5–2 per ride
• Great for short trips and exploring neighborhoods

Buses
• Cheapest option: ¥1–3 per ride
• Use AMap (Gaode) or Baidu Maps for routes
• Less foreigner-friendly than metro

Useful Transport Apps
• Didi: Ride-hailing (English available)
• AMap (Gaode): Best maps & navigation in China
• Trip.com: Trains, flights, hotels (English)
• MetroMan: Offline subway maps

Need help with a specific route? Ask below!
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