Beijing’s subway is a lifesaver for travelers. With 27 lines spanning every corner of the city, it’s the fastest way to avoid traffic jams. Stations are labeled in English and Chinese, and digital maps show up-to-date train arrivals. Download the Beijing Subway or Metro China app for offline maps and contactless payments. For popular areas like Wangfujing or Sanlitun, look for signs in red (Line 1) or blue (Line 10)—they’ll get you there in minutes.
How Reliable Are Buses and Taxis in Beijing?
Buses are cheaper but slower due to traffic congestion, though routes like the Yuyuantan-Qianmen Sightseeing Line offer hop-on-hop-off convenience. Taxis are plentiful but avoid them during rush hour (7:30–9:30 AM, 5–7 PM). Use Didi (China’s Uber) for English-friendly rides. Tip: Always ask the driver to turn off the meter before starting the trip to avoid disputes.
What’s the Best Way to Pay for Transportation?
Cash is rare, but don’t worry—mobile payments rule. Link your card to Alipay or WeChat Pay for seamless subway/bus rides. If you prefer physical cards, buy a Beijing Yikatong card (¥20 deposit, refundable) at any subway station. It offers a 50% discount on bus fares and faster subway entry. For short trips, even street vendors accept QR codes for small purchases.
Transport Cost Comparison (Approx.)
| Type | Cost (RMB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Subway | ¥3–10 | Depends on distance |
| Bus | ¥2–5 | Cash or QR code |
| Taxi | ¥15–30/km | Metered, plus ¥10 airport fee |
| Bike Rental | ¥1.5⁄30 min | Mobike, Ofo, or Didi apps |
Are There Alternative Ways to Explore the City?
For a slower pace, dockless bikes (e.g., Mobike, Hellobike) let you cycle along Houhai Lake or the Summer Palace trails. The Old Town area (near Nanguan Lu) is pedestrian-friendly, perfect for strolling past hutongs (traditional alleyways). At night, buses like the Shichahai Sightseeing Line offer open-top tours with English audio.
How Do I Avoid Traffic Jams and Peak Hours?
Plan trips early! Subway lines close at midnight, so night owls should rely on taxis or rideshares. During national holidays (e.g., Golden Week), book tickets ahead via the 12306 app. For airport transfers, the Express Train (Line 2, ¥25) takes 30 minutes from Beijing Capital Airport to Dongzhimen—skip the