Transportation in Beijing

Public Transportation

Public transportation fares in Beijing have increased since the end of 2014. Here are the current fares for different modes of transport:

• Subway:
  • Up to 6 km: CNY 3
  • 6-12 km: CNY 4
  • 12-22 km: CNY 5
  • 22-32 km: CNY 6
• Buses and trolleybuses: CNY 2 per 10 km (additional CNY 1 for every 5 km after that).

To use public transportation, you can obtain a plastic card called "ikatun" (卡通). The card itself costs 20 CNY, and you can refill it at ticketing kiosks. Alternatively, you can purchase single tickets if you prefer not to use the card.

Here are some key features of Beijing's public transportation:

• Metro: The subway is the most convenient and fastest mode of transportation in Beijing. Subway stations are marked with 地铁 (Di Te) in blue and a square pole with a "D."
• Buses and trolleybuses: City buses are numbered #1-122, while suburban buses are numbered #300-949. Using buses can be challenging for tourists who don't speak Chinese, and there is a risk of pickpocketing.

• Taxis: Taxis in Beijing can be identified by the yellow stripe on the body. The initial fare for boarding and the first 3 km is CNY 13, and then you'll be charged an additional CNY 2.3 for each kilometer. There's also a CNY 3 fuel surcharge, and at the end of the trip, the taxi driver should provide a receipt. From 23:00 to 5:00, the night fare applies, which is 20% more expensive. Pro tip: When taking a taxi, have a note in Chinese with the name of your hotel or the address you want to reach.
• Bicycles: You can rent bicycles at your hotel or from various city points. A deposit of CNY 400 is required, and you can rent a bicycle for any duration you need.

• Velorikshi: Velorikshaws are primarily a tourist mode of transportation, especially useful in the old town with its narrow streets. Velorikshaws operate from 9:00 to 14:00, and the fee depends on the route, your weight, and your bargaining skills. Typically, it costs around 150-200 CNY for 2-3 hours.

Our advice to tourists: among all the modes of transportation in Beijing, it's usually best to opt for taxis or rent a car with a driver.