Getting Around Beijing: Metro, Taxis & More

Introduction

Beijing has an extensive transportation system that makes getting around the city easy. This guide covers all your options.

Getting around Beijing is simpler than it looks. the subway covers almost everything a visitor needs, and the rules below cover the rest.

Metro System

• Lines: Over 20 lines covering most of the city.
• Stations: Hundreds of stations with English signs.
• Cost: CNY 3-7 per trip based on distance.
• Hours: Approximately 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
• Tip: Buy a transportation card for easy access.

the subway is the backbone: cheap, frequent, and signed in English on the main lines. Buy a transport card or use a mobile payment app rather than queueing for single tickets.

Bus System

• Routes: Thousands of bus routes.
• Cost: CNY 1-2 with transportation card.
• Tip: Use apps like Baidu Maps to plan bus routes.

Taxis fill the gaps and are inexpensive by most standards. Have your destination written in the local script, and use a ride-hailing app if you want the fare fixed in advance.

Taxis and Rideshare

• Taxis: Metered, starting at CNY 13 for first 3 km.
• Didi: Popular rideshare app, often cheaper than taxis.
• Tip: Have your destination written in Chinese.

For arrivals and departures, Beijing Capital and Beijing Daxing international airports handles the long-haul side. Allow more time than the journey seems to need – security and check-in queues at peak hours are the variable.

High-Speed Trains

• Stations: Beijing West, Beijing South, Beijing North.
• Destinations: Shanghai, Tianjin, Xi’an, and many other cities.
• Tip: Book tickets in advance via 12306.cn.

Airports

• Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK): Main international airport.
• Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX): New airport serving domestic and international flights.
• Transport to City: Express train, airport bus, taxi, or Didi.

Transportation Tips

• Avoid Rush Hour: 7:30-9:00 AM and 5:30-7:00 PM.
• Transportation Card: Buy a Yikatong card for easy use.
• Navigation Apps: Baidu Maps or Amap for directions.

Practical Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Is public transport signed in English?

On main lines and at major stations, yes.

How do I pay?

Transport cards and mobile payment apps are standard. Cash works but is slower.

Are taxis metered?

In most cities yes. Where they are not, agree the fare before setting off.

Quick Checklist

• Get a transport card on arrival
• Save your destination in the local script
• Allow extra time for Beijing Capital and Beijing Daxing international airports
• Use apps for late-night rides

Last Updated: July 2026