China is a great destination. It is a vast country with a dynamically developing transportation system, which is crucial when it comes to getting around as a tourist or a businessperson. Navigating China can be challenging at first for them, especially if they don’t have a guide or an interpreter, and are unfamiliar with the Chinese language and local transportation customs. In this guide, you’ll learn how to get around China by plane, train, subway, bus, taxi, and bike, how to save money on travel, which apps to use, and how to book tickets without a Chinese phone number.
How to get around in China by plane – a fast way to travel long distances
China boasts one of the largest air transport networks in the world, with hundreds of airports serving passengers. Airplanes are the most convenient way to travel long distances between cities, such as from Beijing to Guangzhou or from Shanghai to Xi’an.
How to book flights in China
- You can search and book flights in China through websites such as Ctrip/Trip.com, Expedia, Kayak, and Google Flights.
- Check that the platform accepts international credit cards if you don’t have a Chinese bank account.
- It’s worth comparing prices and taking advantage of promotions from airlines such as China Eastern, Air China, and China Southern.
How to save on flights in China?
- Use smaller local airports, such as Hangzhou Xiaoshan instead of Shanghai Pudong, to find cheaper connections.
- Book 3–6 weeks in advance for the best fares.
- Compare prices on different days of the week; flights are usually more expensive during weekends and holidays.
How to get around in China by train – fast, comfortable, and popular
China is renowned for its modern high-speed trains and extensive network of standard connections. There are many options, from budget fares to business class.
Types of Trains
- G Trains (高速列车) – the fastest, up to 350 km/h, ideal for routes between major cities.
- D Trains (动车组) – high-speed trains, slightly cheaper than the G type.
- K, T, and Z Trains – standard-speed trains, including overnight options. Slower but affordable and convenient for overnight travel.
How to buy train tickets in China
- The most foreign-friendly portal for booking trains in China is Trip.com. Alternatively, you can use 12306.cn (requires registration, but you don’t need to provide a Chinese phone number if you register as a foreigner).
- You can also buy tickets at train stations, preferably with your passport.
- When booking a train, select your route, class, and departure time. In some cases, online booking allows you to choose your seat.
How to save on train fares in China
- Use second-class tickets instead of first-class.
- If you’re planning a long journey, consider overnight trains, which combine travel with an overnight stay.
- Check out train promotions on booking platforms.
China’s Metro – rapid urban transit
Most major Chinese cities, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, have modern metro systems that are user-friendly even for non-Chinese speakers.
Using the metro in China as a foreigner
- Tickets are purchased from vending machines or ticket counters. In Shanghai and Beijing, the Metro Card (交通卡) is popular.
- Apps like DiDi Metro Map and Google Maps (with an offline map enabled) help plan routes.
- Peak hours (7–9 AM and 5–7 PM) can be crowded; travel outside these times if possible.
How to get around in China by bus – economical intercity and city options
Getting around by bus in China is inexpensive but may require some local knowledge or apps to navigate efficiently.
Intercity buses in China
- Available at long-distance bus stations in major cities.
- Tickets can be purchased at ticket offices or through apps such as Trip.com, Ctrip, or Fliggy.
City buses
- In cities, use Baidu Maps or Moovit, which show schedules and route numbers.
- Many buses require a transport card or small cash for payment.
How to get around in China by taxi – are taxis in China safe?
Taxis are convenient, but in large cities, you need to be careful of scams and unfair rates.
How to take a taxi in China safely
- Choose licensed taxis, preferably those booked through apps.
- Popular apps for foreigners: DiDi, Meituan Ride, Dache.
- If you don’t have a Chinese phone number, you can use an international SIM card or a VPN for apps that support foreign accounts.
How to save on taxi rides in China
- Use DiDi’s shared taxi (carpool) option, if available.
- Compare prices between different apps to get the best fare.
Bicycles and e-scooters in China – affordable and eco-friendly
China was once known for promoting cycling as the primary mode of transportation for shorter journeys. More and more cities in China are offering shared bicycles and electric scooters for rent by the minute.
- Popular apps: HelloBike, Mobike, DiDi Bike.
- Registration requires a phone number, but many apps allow for international verification
How to get around China on your own – top tips for saving money and booking travel
To avoid frustration while traveling in China, it’s important to prepare for your stay there. Here are some tips for foreigners:
- Use apps like Trip.com, DiDi, Moovit, and HelloBike – many work without a Chinese number.
- Book tickets in advance and keep an eye on promotions to save on travel.
- When using taxis and ride-hailing, keep safety and prices in mind.
- Choose flights for long distances, trains for convenience and time savings, and metros and buses for city trips.
- A bicycle or scooter is a great choice for short distances and quick travel in city centers, avoiding traffic jams.
Whether you’re traveling to China for tourism or business, this guide will definitely be useful and will make your stay in China more enjoyable.