Getting Around in Beijing

Getting around in Beijing is cheap and convenient at the best of times, and claustrophobic and dangerous at the worst. Plenty of public transport options are readily available for those averse to life as a pedestrian, and for the brave, it's also possible to drive a car.

The city is built around five main 'ring roads' – highways that make basic circles around the city centre, each further out than the last. Most areas outside 5th Ring Road are considered quite far from the actual centre, though they are technically still part of Beijing. 

As expected in a city of more than 22 million people, heavy traffic is commonplace throughout, but new government regulations have been working to reduce congestion.

Public transport in Beijing

The main public transport options are subways and buses, which operate throughout the city and its outskirts. These systems are well-maintained and continuously improved. You can buy a rechargeable Yikatong card to use on subways and buses. This card also gives you discounted fares.

Subway

The Beijing Subway is quite easy to use, with clear maps in Standard Chinese Mandarin and signs in English and Pinyin (Chinese characters written out phonetically). The subway is an economical means of transport in Beijing, but the biggest difficulty tends to be crowded cars, especially during rush hour.

The subway boasts 24 lines that run through more than 390 stations. The system typically operates from 5am to around 11pm, and there are special express services that travel to the airport. You can purchase tickets at vending machines or counters at the station. 

Suburban Railway

Operated by the China Beijing Railway, the Beijing City Rail connected the city's suburban areas outside the main ring roads to the city centre. This service is operated separately from the city's subway system, and while there are currently only four main lines in operation, the railway network is expanding.

Buses and trolleybuses

Passengers can travel by Beijing's bus rapid transit system, and multiple lines connect different areas and suburbs. Trolleybuses also operate in the city, particularly within the Third Ring Road.

There are several bus lines available in Beijing, including urban, night, and suburban lines. Night buses typically operate after 11pm. Bus fares can either be charged as a flat fee or measured fee based on the distance.

Buses can be slightly intimidating since the routes are more complicated and less clearly marked, but signs in Pinyin as well as in Chinese characters are common. Learning the bus system will involve a bit more trial and error than learning the subway or taxi systems, but the price makes it a worthwhile adventure.

Useful links

• Beijing Subway
• Beijing MTR Corporation Limited
• Beijing Public Transport

Taxis in Beijing

Taxis are easy to find in most areas. There is a basic fee for the first 1.86 miles (3 km), with extra charges applied for longer trips. Taxi fares are higher after 11pm, when most public transport stops running. While taxis are generally affordable, they can become expensive if you're stuck in traffic.

Some drivers might try to overcharge foreign passengers, but using taxis is simple if you know your destination or have it written down.

In Beijing, taxis are the only public transport available 24/7. That said, fewer taxis operate at night. Ride-hailing apps like DiDi are a convenient option. They let you track your driver and show the trip cost upfront. They can also help navigate the language barrier for expats. 

Useful links

• DiDi

Driving in Beijing

It is recommended that you take some time to learn the traffic patterns before deciding to drive in Beijing. Those who do decide to pursue a Chinese driving licence will need to navigate through a fair bit of bureaucracy and pass a relatively simple test, but one that can be confusing in translation.

Most expats will find that they do not need to own a car in Beijing, but some choose to get one for more independence and the ease of transporting groceries and travelling with children.

Read Transport and Driving in Beijing for more on securing a driving licence in China. 

Cycling in Beijing

Cycling is a popular way to get around Beijing and is often faster than sitting in traffic during rush hour. However, the city's air pollution can make cycling less appealing, and it might take some time to figure out the bike lanes.

Many expats decide to buy a bike in Beijing, whether it's a pedal bicycle, electric bike, or petrol-powered scooter. There are plenty of options to pick from, and many don't need a licence. Getting a strong lock and securing your bike to something solid is important, as bike theft is common in the city.

If you're looking for a bike for a short trip, renting is easy. Several companies offer e-bikes you can pick up and drop off at different spots around Beijing.

Useful links

• DiDi Bike
• Hello Bike

Walking in Beijing

Many find that their definition of what is within 'walking distance' changes dramatically upon moving to Beijing. Suddenly, a few kilometres is not a long walk. Getting to places on foot – or with a combination of walking, riding buses and the subway – is not only possible, but is quite common and generally safe.

Beijing is a large city, which means it's not particularly walkable. However, some areas are more pedestrian-friendly than others, and you can certainly explore the city's main attractions on foot.