Metro Riding 101
China's metro systems are world-class — clean, efficient, and insanely affordable. A typical ride costs 3-7 RMB ($0.40-$1.00).
How to Ride
- Find the station — look for the metro logo (varies by city)
- Go through security — put your bag through the X-ray scanner
- Tap in using Alipay's transport QR code or a single-trip ticket
- Follow the signs — all major cities have English signage
- Tap out at your destination
Payment Options
- Alipay QR code (recommended) — open Alipay → Transport → select your city
- Single-trip tokens — buy at machines with cash or mobile pay
- Transit cards — reloadable cards if you're staying longer
Survival Tips
- Avoid rush hours (7:30-9:00 AM, 5:30-7:00 PM) if possible
- Stand on the right of escalators, walk on the left
- Let passengers exit first before boarding
- Download the local metro app for real-time maps (e.g., Metro Man works for most cities)
- Last trains typically run around 10:30-11:00 PM
Cities with Best Metro Systems
Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen all have extensive networks. Even smaller cities like Chengdu, Hangzhou, and Nanjing have excellent metro coverage.