China Travel Transport Guide
China’s public transport system is one of the largest, most modern and most convenient in the world. Travelling around China is often easier and more comfortable than in many other countries. There is no need to worry if you are visiting for the first time. Foreign visitors can buy tickets online or via mobile apps such as 12306. Below is a summary of transport options for you to choose from.
City Transport
‑ Subway / Metro: Major cities including Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou and Suzhou have fast metro systems. You will not get stuck in traffic jams. You can scan a phone QR code for entry or buy tickets at stations. ‑ Bus: Buses are cheap. However, small‑city buses may have no English signs, so routes can be hard to understand. ‑ Ride‑hailing: Use the app Didi for taxi‑like rides. It is a great choice for places hard to reach by public transport.
Domestic Flights
China is a huge country. Domestic flights are a fast way to travel between far‑away cities. You can book flights on the Trip app. Book early during peak travel seasons, or ticket prices will be very high.
Car Rental & Self‑Driving
Car rental is not recommended in big cities because of heavy traffic and difficult parking. Renting a car works well for remote areas such as Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang. Important: Foreign drivers need both an International Driving Permit (IDP) and a temporary Chinese driver’s license. Please prepare these documents in advance.
Shared Bikes & E‑scooters
Shared bicycles and electric scooters are very popular across China. Scan the QR‑code via Alipay or Didi to unlock them. Riding bikes is highly recommended, especially in central Shanghai.
