Beijing Transportation

Beijing transportation system is well-developed and efficient that makes it easy to get around the city. The metro is the main mode of public transportation, with over 20 lines that cover almost all major areas and attractions. It’s fast, affordable, and has signs in both Chinese and English, making it user-friendly for visitors.

In addition to the metro, Beijing has a large bus network that reaches places the subway doesn’t cover. While buses can be slower due to traffic, they are a cheap way to travel, especially for shorter trips. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Didi are also widely available, but it’s helpful to have your destination written in Chinese to avoid communication issues.

For those who prefer eco-friendly options, Beijing has a popular bike-sharing system, with bikes available for rent all over the city. Traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours, so planning ahead is important. The city’s airports and train stations are well-connected to the center, making it easy to travel long distances.

Getting to Beijing

By Air

Beijing is served by two major international airports:

• Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK): As the main international gateway to the city, Beijing Capital International Airport is located 32 kilometers northeast of the city center. It is one of the busiest airports in the world, with a wide range of domestic and international flights. The airport is well-connected to the city by various modes of transportation, including the Airport Express train, buses, and taxis, making it convenient for travelers to reach their destinations.
• Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX): Opened in 2019, Beijing Daxing International Airport is a state-of-the-art international hub located 46 kilometers south of the city center. Known for its futuristic design and advanced technology, Daxing Airport is quickly becoming a key airport for international and domestic flights. The airport is connected to the city by high-speed rail, metro lines, and express buses, providing travelers with multiple options to reach the city center efficiently.

Both airports offer a range of amenities, including shopping, dining, and business services, ensuring a comfortable experience for travelers. Whether you are arriving from abroad or traveling within China, these airports provide excellent facilities and connectivity to explore Beijing and beyond.

By Train:

Beijing is a major railway hub, with several key stations serving different regions of China:

• Beijing Railway Station: Located near the city center, Beijing Railway Station is one of the oldest and most iconic train stations in the city. It serves many domestic routes, particularly those heading to northeastern China and nearby regions. The station is well-connected to the rest of the city by metro, buses, and taxis, making it a convenient starting point for your journey.
• Beijing West Railway Station: This is one of the largest and busiest train stations in Beijing, serving as a major hub for trains traveling to southern and western China. It’s a key departure point for high-speed bullet trains, including those to Xi’an, Chengdu, and other major cities in these regions. The station is equipped with modern amenities and is connected to the city center by metro and bus lines, ensuring smooth transit for passengers.
• Beijing South Railway Station: Primarily dedicated to high-speed rail, Beijing South Railway Station is a modern and efficient station that handles some of the fastest trains in the country. It’s the main terminal for the Beijing-Shanghai high-speed route, one of the busiest and most popular rail lines in China. The station features a sleek design and is easily accessible via the metro, making it a top choice for travelers looking to quickly reach destinations like Shanghai, Tianjin, and other cities along the high-speed rail network.

Each of these stations is equipped with various facilities, including waiting areas, food outlets, and ticketing services, ensuring a comfortable experience for travelers. With Beijing’s extensive rail network, getting to other parts of China by train is both convenient and efficient.

By Bus:

Beijing transportaton is well-served by an extensive network of long-distance buses that connect the city with major cities, towns, and rural areas across China. These buses are a popular option for travelers looking to reach destinations that may not be directly accessible by train or for those who prefer a more flexible travel schedule.

• Long-Distance Bus Stations: Beijing has several key long-distance bus stations, including the Beijing Bawangfen Bus Station, Beijing Liuliqiao Passenger Transport Terminal, and the Beijing Zhaogongkou Bus Station. Each of these stations specializes in routes to different parts of the country, offering services to provinces such as Hebei, Shandong, Shanxi, and beyond. These stations are usually well-equipped with amenities like waiting areas, food vendors, and ticket counters.
• Comfort and Convenience: Long-distance buses in China range from basic services to more luxurious options, with some offering reclining seats, air conditioning, and onboard restrooms. For longer journeys, sleeper buses with bunk beds are available, providing a unique and restful way to travel overnight. These buses are a cost-effective option, especially for budget-conscious travelers or those looking to explore less accessible regions.
• Scenic Routes: Traveling by bus offers the added benefit of enjoying scenic routes, especially when heading to more rural or mountainous areas. Whether you’re journeying through the countryside, passing by historic sites, or traversing mountainous terrain, the bus ride can be a memorable part of your travel experience.

Overall, long-distance buses provide a reliable and affordable way to travel in and out of Beijing, making them a viable option for those looking to explore the diverse regions of China.

Transportation Within Beijing

Metro:

• Extensive network with 25 lines covering most areas of the city. This comprehensive network makes it easy to reach major attractions, business districts, and residential areas, whether you’re a tourist or a local resident. 
• Operating Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm.
• Fares: ¥3-¥10 based on distance.

Bus:

• Over 1,000 routes covering the entire city. Buses are an essential part of the city’s public transport, providing an affordable and accessible way to navigate Beijing. 
• Fares: ¥2 for standard buses, ¥3-¥5 for air-conditioned buses.
• Beijing Bus Guide: Available at major stops and online.

Taxi and Ride-Sharing:

• Taxis: Readily available, fares start at ¥13 for the first 3 km.
• Ride-Sharing Apps: For a more modern approach, ride-sharing services like Didi Chuxing offer an alternative to traditional taxis. Available via a mobile app, Didi provides various options, from standard rides to premium services, making it easy to book a ride tailored to your needs. The app is similar to Uber and offers cashless payment options, making the process seamless for users.

Bicycles:

• Bike-Sharing:  Bike-sharing services like Mobike and Ofo have made cycling even more accessible, with bikes available for rent through mobile apps. These services allow you to pick up and drop off bikes at various locations around the city, providing flexibility and convenience for short trips or casual rides. 
• Bike Lanes: With the dedicated bike lanes, cycling in Beijing is generally safe and efficient, making it an excellent option for getting around, particularly in the flatter areas of the city.

Airport Express Train:

• Connects Beijing Capital International Airport with the city’s metro network.
• Fares: ¥25.

Connecting to Other Cities

High-Speed Rail (Bullet Train):

• Routes: Beijing to Shanghai, Tianjin, Xi’an, and other major cities.
• Stations: Departures primarily from Beijing South and Beijing West Railway Stations.
• Speeds: Up to 350 km/h (217 mph).

Regular Train:

• Extensive network connecting Beijing to various regions of China.
• Fares: Vary based on distance and class (soft sleeper, hard sleeper, seat).

Long-Distance Bus:

• Connects Beijing to nearby cities and provinces.
• Stations: Major terminals include Liuliqiao and Bawangfen.

Travel Tips

• Apps: Use Baidu Maps or Google Maps for navigation and transport information.
• IC Card: Purchase a Beijing Transportation Smart Card for convenient access to metro, buses, and some taxis.
• Language: Have destinations written in Chinese to show drivers, as English is not widely spoken.