Getting Around
Transport in China
China has the world's best public transport. High-speed trains, modern metros, and cheap ride-hailing — here's how to navigate it all without speaking Chinese.
High-Speed Trains
China's high-speed rail network is the world's largest — 45,000+ km connecting every major city. Trains run at 300-350 km/h. Beijing to Shanghai takes 4.5 hours. It's the best way to travel between cities.
How to Book
- • A: 12306 app — Official app in English. Book 15 days ahead. Pay with foreign card.
- • B: Trip.com — Most foreigners use this. Small booking fee (~$3) but super easy in English.
- • C: Station counter — Can buy same-day. Bring passport. Some stations have English-speaking windows.
Seat Classes
Comfortable, 3+2 seating. Good enough.
Wider seats, 2+2. Worth it for trips over 3h.
Lie-flat seats, lounge access. Like first class flying.
City Metro Systems
Every major city has a modern metro with English signs, announcements, and ticket machines. Clean, safe, and incredibly cheap — most rides cost $0.30-0.80.
Ride-Hailing & Taxis
Didi (Recommended)
- • English interface available
- • Accepts foreign credit cards
- • 3-5x cheaper than Western Uber prices
- • Available in 400+ Chinese cities
- • Options: Express, Premier, Taxi, Hitch
Taxis
- • Green light = available
- • Have your destination in Chinese characters
- • Drivers rarely speak English
- • Always get a receipt (发票 fapiao)
- • ~$1.50 base fare + $0.30/km
Domestic Flights
For long distances (Beijing to Guilin, Chengdu to Zhangjiajie), flying is often cheaper than the train and saves a full day of travel. Book on Trip.com or Ctrip for English interface.
Note on Delays
Chinese domestic flights are frequently delayed due to military airspace control. Don't schedule tight connections on the same day. The train is more reliable for trips under 5 hours.