Transport Info Line

Transport Info Line

Transport Info Line

Traveling around China can be intimidating for first-timers in the country. There are several options for short and long-distance transportation, including metros, taxis, buses, trains, and airplanes.

Taking the Metro in China’s Big Cities

When staying in any big city in China, the metro can be the best way to get around. The metros in China are clean, quick, and easy to use. Signs are posted in English, and English is often spoken over the speakers within the metro cars.

Those spending a greater length of time in any city may be interested in purchasing a metro card, to avoid having to purchase numerous single-journey tickets. There is a deposit fee of 20 RMB for the card, which is returned when the card is turned in. These cards can be purchased at any metro station, but they can only be returned to a select few.

Taxis in China

Taxis are great for moving around inside a city or town, but are much more expensive than other means for covering long distances. Most inner-city journeys in China will cost less than 40 RMB, with many being less expensive. A taxi to and from an airport usually costs between 70-180 RMB, as airports are often located far outside of the city. Most taxis in China are metered, so tourists can expect to pay what the locals pay. Travelers should always ensure the meter is on to avoid a much higher price when reaching their destination.

While there is no hassle regarding prices, there are other challenges that arise when taking taxis in China. Many of the drivers do not speak English, so it is very important to know the name of the desired destination in Chinese. Because pronunciation can be difficult, it is best to have written directions in Chinese characters. This can be obtained by asking staff members at any hotel.

Bus Travel in China

Buses can be a cheap alternative to taxis, but there are a few drawbacks that one should be aware of. Chinese buses range from small mini-van type vehicles to large modern buses found in more developed countries. Inner city travel can be as cheap as fifteen cents, while long distance travel is approximately 15 RMB per hour.