How to Get Around in Chinese Cities: Subways, Buses, Bikes, and All the Unexpected Stuff

So you’ve landed in China and you’re ready to explore — but how do you actually get around without going insane or ending up in the wrong part of town? 😅

Whether you’re in Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, or a smaller city, urban transportation in China is modern, cheap, and surprisingly efficient — once you know how it works. This guide breaks it all down in plain English, with real-life tips to help you move like a local (or at least fake it convincingly).

1. 🚇 Subways: The Foreigner’s Best Friend

Most major cities in China have an extensive subway system. It’s cheap (usually 2–5 RMB), fast, and avoids surface traffic chaos.

• ✅ Why use it? English signs, numbered exits, clean stations
• 📱 How to pay: Alipay/WeChat QR code, metro card, or vending machine tickets
• 🔁 Tips: Avoid rush hour unless you enjoy human Tetris. Line 13 in Beijing? Prepare for a squeeze.

2. 🚌 Buses: Cheap But Not Always Easy

Buses are dirt cheap (1–2 RMB), but they can be tricky for foreigners because most routes and announcements are in Chinese only.

• 🧭 Best for: Areas not served by subways
• 📲 Use apps like: Baidu Maps (with translation) to check bus lines
• 🚫 Watch out: You may need exact change if QR isn’t accepted

3. 🚖 Taxis: Hit or Miss

Taxis are everywhere, but… they don’t always stop, they rarely speak English, and they sometimes avoid short trips.

• 💸 Start fare: Around 13 RMB in most cities
• 📍 Show your destination: Written in Chinese on your phone helps A LOT
• 🚩 Pro tip: Avoid fake taxis near tourist spots

4. 🚘 Ride-hailing Apps (Like Didi)

Didi is the Chinese Uber, and it’s widely used in cities big and small. You’ll need a phone number and possibly help navigating the Chinese UI.

• 📲 App: Didi — available in English version too (if your app store allows it)
• 💳 Payment: Alipay, WeChat, or international card in some cases
• 📌 Choose ride type: Express (cheaper), Premier (nicer car), Taxi (real taxis via app)

5. 🚲 Shared Bikes: Fun, Cheap, and Ubiquitous

You’ll see bright-colored bikes scattered around everywhere — Mobike, Meituan, etc. Just scan and ride.

• 🧾 Need to Know: Register with ID (passport), deposit may be required
• 📍 Drop-off: Park in designated zones or risk a fine
• ⚠️ Beware: Traffic in China can be intense — ride carefully

6. 🧭 Apps That Will Save Your Life

• Baidu Maps: Best for transit directions, but interface is in Chinese
• Apple/Google Maps: Limited coverage but okay for walking
• AutoNavi (高德地图): Great for real-time bus arrivals
• Alipay & WeChat: For paying literally everything, including buses, subway, bikes

7. 😅 Things That Might Surprise You

• 🚦 You’ll need to scan a QR code to enter some metro stations — and sometimes scan again to leave
• 🔄 No transfer discount on buses + subways — each trip is charged separately
• 🔇 Bus stops may not be announced in English — track your location using an app
• 🎒 Don’t block the subway doors or stand on the left side of escalators — locals will glare

Final Thoughts 💡

Chinese cities are built for convenience — once you learn the systems, you’ll move around like a pro. Subways are your best bet for simplicity. Buses are cheap but require some bravery. Bikes are fun if you can survive traffic. And taxis or Didi? Just don’t forget to bring your phone and patience.

Once you get the hang of it, getting around in Chinese cities can actually feel easier than back home. Now get out there and explore! 🧳