Transportation Guide: China’s vast and diverse landscape offers travelers an array of transportation options. From high-speed trains to subways, taxis, and flights, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate China’s transportation system with confidence.

1.Train Travel in China/Transportation Guide

China’s extensive railway network is an efficient and scenic way to explore the country.

Ticket Booking:

• Online: Use platforms like Trip app or Railway 12306, which support international payments and offer English interfaces.
• Offline: Purchase at train stations with staff assistance.

Online Booking Steps:

• Download the app (Railway 12306)
• Select departure and arrival stations, dates, and passenger numbers
• Enter passenger details exactly as they appear on passports
• Proceed to payment
• Receive e-ticket via app or email

Booking for Others:

• Sign in to your account on the booking app
• Add passenger information, selecting ‘Passport’ as ID type
• Complete submission (note: ‘Identity Verification Pending’ is normal)
• Select added passengers and proceed with payment

Onboarding:

• Arrive 30-60 minutes early with valid passport and Travel Permit
• Original passports scanned at manual check-in
• All luggage undergoes security screening
• Check electronic screens for train status and waiting room location
• Proceed to secondary ticket inspection at boarding gates
• Find your carriage and wait for the train

Key Tips:

• Book up to 15 days in advance, especially during peak seasons
• Trains run on time; disruptions are rare
• Seats are reserved
• Many cities have multiple departure stations; ensure you’re at the correct one
• Provide accurate passport details
• Use automated passport scanning for quick entry
• Foreign travelers must bring original passport used for ticket purchase
• Maximum of four tickets can be bought online per transaction

2.Navigating China’s Subway Systems/Transportation Guide

As of 2022, 53 Chinese mainland cities have metro systems, making public transportation accessible and reliable.

Ticket Purchase Options:
Mobile Apps:

• Alipay: Provides QR codes for subways and buses in most cities
• City-specific apps (e.g., Metro大都会 in Shanghai, 北京一卡通 in Beijing)

Onsite:

• Ticket vending machines (multiple payment methods, English available)
• Staffed counters (various ticket options available)

Safety Measures:

• Security checks at all stations
• Prohibited items: sharp objects, flammable/explosive materials, toxins, radioactive items, live animals (except service animals)
• Well-staffed stations with patrolling officers

Pricing:

• Based on mileage, most one-way tickets cost less than 10 RMB

Helpful Tips:

• Not all stations have restrooms; ask staff if unsure
• Bring your own tissues as most restrooms don’t provide them
• Listen for English announcements on all subways

3.Taking Taxis in China/Transportation Guide

Taxis and car-hailing services are widely available across Chinese cities.

Finding Taxis:

• Follow signs at airports and train stations
• Hail on the street by waving

Communication Tips:

• Prepare destination address in Chinese or Pinyin
• Show pictures of attractions to drivers
• Use translation apps for real-time communication
• Learn some simple Chinese phrases

Payment:

• Cash: Prepare small bills (50 RMB or smaller)
• Mobile: WeChat Pay or Alipay

Car-hailing Services:

• Available through Alipay app
• Follow in-app instructions for booking and payment
• English interface available

Key Tips:

• Choose legitimate taxis with official signage
• Ensure meter starts at 0
• Keep receipt for reference or complaints
• Tipping is not necessary

4.Flying in China/Transportation Guide

For longer distances, air travel is a convenient option.

Booking Flights:

• Use trusted websites like Trip.com
• Consider major cities for direct flights
• Check and amend luggage allowance

Pre-flight Preparations:

• Check visa requirements (Tourist (L), Business (M), etc.)
• Pack essentials: passport, visa, comfortable clothes, chargers, cards, and some cash

Arrival Procedures:

• Follow signs for immigration and customs
• Have translation apps ready
• Consider downloading digital wallets (Alipay, WeChat Pay)

Budget Tip: Consider flying to Hong Kong and taking a high-speed train to the mainland to save on costs. Note that separate visas are required for mainland China and Hong Kong.

5.Useful Maps for Navigation/Transportation Guide

• Apple Maps: Available for iOS users in China
• Alipay Maps: Features a “Plan Routine” function (Transport > Plan Routine > Enter destination > See map)
• A Map (Gaode Map): Great for Chinese speakers, offers real-time traffic info and public transport details
• City Maps: Offline English metro maps are particularly useful for real-time subway information and local attraction details

By understanding these various transportation options, you’ll be well-equipped to explore China efficiently and confidently. Remember to always check the most up-to-date information before your trip, as services and regulations may change.

FAQs:

Refer:

1.百度地图 (baidu.com)

2.高德地图 (amap.com)

3.中国铁路12306网站