Complete Guide to Transportation in China

When asking, “How do people get around in China?” the first answer should be: by train. China’s high-speed railway system is the most efficient and comfortable way to travel between cities. Known locally as Gāotiě (高铁), these trains connect major destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Guangzhou, and more, reaching speeds of up to 350 km/h. Trains are punctual, clean, and offer different class options for various budgets, including Business, First, and Second Class.

With online platforms like Rail.Ninja and High-Speed trains, it’s easy to plan and book tickets in advance. Compared to domestic flights, high-speed trains offer faster boarding, scenic views, and avoid long airport queues. If you’re wondering how to travel in China, this should be your go-to option for covering long distances efficiently.

China’s major cities boast some of the most extensive and modern subway systems in the world. Cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Chengdu have metro networks that are fast, reliable, and foreigner-friendly with English signage. Subways are ideal for short-distance travel and getting around urban centers. Fares are inexpensive and based on distance, and trains run frequently throughout the day. Rush hour can get crowded, but platforms are well-organized, and stations often include shopping areas and rest zones. For tourists staying within a city, metro lines provide a fast way to reach landmarks and neighborhoods. This is an essential part of Chinese transportation that’s easy to navigate.

Taxis are widely available in Chinese cities, though finding one during peak hours or in remote areas can be challenging. Most drivers don’t speak English, so having your destination written in Chinese is helpful. Ride-hailing apps like DiDi Chuxing (China’s Uber alternative) are a more reliable choice for many travelers. These apps offer English interfaces, fare estimates, and card payment options. Prices are generally affordable, but rates increase during traffic or rainy days. While convenient for shorter city rides, this method is less practical for long-distance travel. Still, for door-to-door service or late-night trips, DiDi makes getting around smooth and safe.

Intercity and local buses cover nearly every town and village in China, making them a valid option for budget-conscious travelers. Long-distance buses can be booked at stations or online, but schedules may only be in Chinese, and staff may not speak English. Within cities, public buses are cheap but harder to navigate for non-locals, as they lack English signage.

Some routes accept mobile payments or local transit cards, but not all. While buses are a slower alternative to trains, they can be useful for reaching remote areas not connected by rail. They’re part of how people get around in China, but usually not the first choice for tourists.

China’s domestic airline network is vast, offering flights to almost every province and region. If you’re heading to remote areas like Tibet, Xinjiang, or Hainan Island, flying might be the only practical option. However, flights often face delays due to air traffic control or weather, and check-in procedures can be time-consuming. Trains are often faster for city-to-city trips under 1,000 km. That said, for time-sensitive travel or far-flung regions, domestic flights are worth considering. Booking is easy through international platforms or local apps, and prices can vary depending on the season.

In many Chinese cities, bike-sharing and e-scooter services are a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore short distances. Apps like HelloBike, Meituan Bike, and Mobike allow users to unlock bicycles or e-scooters using QR codes.

Most locals use Alipay or WeChat Pay for access, but some bikes can now be unlocked using a foreign credit card. These are great for short sightseeing detours, park rides, or getting from a subway station to your hotel.

In cities like Shanghai, Chongqing, and Guangzhou, ferries and river cruises offer not just a means of transportation, but also scenic views of skylines and local life. In places like the Yangtze River, multi-day cruises are available and offer a unique experience of traveling slowly through nature and cultural sites.

These cruises often include guided excursions to historical landmarks, traditional villages, and breathtaking natural gorges. They’re ideal for travelers seeking a more relaxed and immersive journey through China’s inland beauty.