China boasts one of the world's most extensive and modern transportation networks. From bullet trains that hit 350 km/h to bike-share systems on every corner, getting around is easier than you might think.
High-Speed Rail (HSR)
China's high-speed rail network is the longest in the world — over 42,000 km of track. It is the best way to travel between cities.
Booking Tickets
- 12306 app — the official booking platform. Foreigners can register using a passport number. The app now supports English.
- Trip.com (Ctrip) — English-friendly alternative with a small service fee.
- Train station counters — bring your passport; English support is limited.
Classes of Service
| Class | Description | Price Level |
|---|---|---|
| Second Class | Standard; comfortable reclining seat | $ |
| First Class | Wider seats, more legroom | $$ |
| Business Class | Lie-flat seats, meals included | $$$ |
Tip: Book 2–3 days ahead for popular routes (Beijing–Shanghai, Chengdu–Xi'an). Tickets sell out during holidays.
Useful Routes & Travel Times
- Beijing → Shanghai: ~4.5 hours
- Shanghai → Hangzhou: ~1 hour
- Guangzhou → Shenzhen: ~30 minutes
- Chengdu → Xi'an: ~3.5 hours
Metro Systems
Major Chinese cities have world-class metro systems. Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen each have extensive networks.
How to Ride
- Buy a single-trip token at a ticket machine (accepts cash and mobile pay) or use Alipay / WeChat transit codes.
- Pass through security (bags are X-rayed at every station).
- Follow signs in English and Chinese to your platform.
Tip: Download Baidu Maps or Amap and use the transit directions feature — it shows exact metro routes and transfer stations.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
DiDi (滴滴)
DiDi is China's Uber. Download the DiDi app (international version available) to:
- Request rides with an English interface.
- See fare estimates before confirming.
- Pay via Alipay, WeChat Pay, or international card.
Hailing Street Taxis
- Look for the red "空车" (empty) sign on the dashboard.
- Always use the meter — no negotiating.
- Have your destination written in Chinese characters to show the driver; screenshot from Baidu Maps works perfectly.
Domestic Flights
For longer distances (e.g., Beijing to Kunming), domestic flights save significant time.
- Book on Trip.com, Qunar, or airline apps.
- Arrive at the airport 2 hours early — security lines are long.
- Budget carriers like Spring Airlines offer cheap fares but strict baggage limits.
Bike Sharing
Dockless bike-share systems are everywhere in Chinese cities:
- Meituan Bikes (yellow) and Hello Bikes (blue) are the most common.
- Unlock with Alipay or the provider's own app. Costs about ¥1.5 per 15 minutes.
- Great for last-mile trips between metro stations and your destination.
Intercity Buses
Long-distance buses serve routes not covered by rail:
- Less comfortable but significantly cheaper.
- Useful for reaching scenic areas and smaller cities.
- Book at the bus station or through the Changtu (畅途) app.
Summary Tips
- Install the 12306 app and register with your passport.
- Download DiDi for taxi rides.
- Carry a screenshot of your destination in Chinese characters.
- Use metro + bike-share combos for urban exploration.
- Book train tickets early during holidays (Spring Festival, Golden Week, Dragon Boat).