Getting Around
Taxis, trains, metro, bikes — here's how to navigate China like a local.
There are 3 ways to use DiDi. Only one works reliably for tourists.
| Method | Status | Why |
|---|---|---|
| DiDi International App | Not Recommended | Limited coverage, higher prices, fewer drivers |
| DiDi Chuxing App | Difficult | Chinese-only interface, requires Chinese phone number |
| DiDi via Alipay | Recommended | English UI, your Alipay payment, full driver pool |
China's HSR network is the world's largest (45,000+ km). Often faster than flying when you factor in airport time.
| Comparison | HSR | Flying |
|---|---|---|
| Beijing → Shanghai | fastest 4hours and 18 minutes, city center to city center | 2h flight + 2h airport time + summer delays |
| Security check | 15 min before | 60-90 min before |
| Delays | Rare (<5%) | Common in summer |
| Booking | 12306 or Trip.com | Trip.com or airline app |
商务座
一等座
二等座
Seat Layout Comparison
▣ ▣ ▣
A B C
▣ ▣ ▣ ▣
A B C D
▣ ▣ ▣ ▣ ▣
A B C D E
• 二等座 (Second Class) — 3+2 layout, comfortable, cheapest
• 一等座 (First Class) — 2+2 layout, more legroom
• 商务座 (Business Class) — 2+1 layout, lie-flat seats, meals included
- Train codes: G (highest-speed, fastest) · D (fast) · C (intercity)
- Channels: 12306 official (no fee) · Trip.com (English, foreign cards) · station ticket window
- Tickets open 15 days in advance — popular routes sell out quickly
- Payment: Visa / Mastercard / Alipay / WeChat Pay
12306 ID verification — register early ▸
You can't buy tickets until your passport is verified by 12306.
How to register
- Open the 12306 China Railway app or 12306.cn → Register → choose Passport (护照)
- The phone field only accepts CN / HK / MO / TW numbers — use email instead
- Online verification takes 3–5 working days (or instant in person at any station counter)
Name entry — wrong format means you can't board
- Surname first, then given name (same order as your passport)
- Keep spaces — between surname/given name, and inside names like
VAN DER BERG - Keep punctuation —
MARY J. SMITHnotMARY J SMITH - Max 30 characters — use the first 30 if yours is longer
- The exact same name must appear on every booking, including Trip.com
If online verification stalls
- Upload your passport bio page + a selfie holding your passport — system auto-verifies, OR
- Walk into any station ticket counter with your original passport
- Large stations (Beijing South, Shanghai Hongqiao): arrive 40–60 min early
- Security: passport ready, liquids ≤100ml, no knives or lighters
- Foreigners must use the MANUAL gate — self-service turnstiles don't read passports
- Boarding opens 15 min before departure, gates close 5 min before (no late entry)
- Power outlets at every seat on newer Fuxing trains (most G-trains); older Hexie sets share one outlet per pair. USB ports are common but not guaranteed — bring a power brick.
- Newer trains let you scan a QR at your seat to order meals (a snack trolley also passes)
No refund after departure — but you can change to another same-day train via the 12306 app or station window (pay any price difference).
Every major city has a metro system. Cheapest and fastest way to get around within a city.
- Alipay QR code entry: Open Alipay → search city name + "Metro" (e.g. "Shanghai Metro") → scan QR at turnstile
- Fares: typically ¥3-8 per ride depending on distance
- Security screening at every station — bags go through X-ray
| Brand | Color | Unlock via |
|---|---|---|
| Hellobike | Blue | Alipay |
| Meituan Bike | Yellow | Alipay + WeChat |
| Didi Bike | Turquoise (青) |
Rules: Park in designated areas (painted white boxes). Ride in bike lanes. Helmets not required but recommended.
- Power banks must have 3C mark (CCC certification). Without it, security will confiscate them.
- No lighters on any Chinese flights — zero tolerance
- All lithium battery devices (laptops, cameras, power banks) must be carry-on, not checked luggage
- Book via Trip.com for English interface and international card support
China uses 220V/50Hz. Outlets accept Type A (US flat 2-prong) and Type I (Australian angled 3-prong).
US/Canada travelers: Your 2-prong plugs will work in most outlets. 3-prong grounded plugs may not fit.
UK/EU travelers: You will need an adapter.
Recommendation: Bring a universal adapter with USB ports. Available cheaply on Amazon before your trip or at convenience stores in China.
Temporary Driving Permit (临时驾驶许可)
Foreigners can apply for a temporary permit valid for up to 3 months. Since 2024, the process has been simplified — no driving test required for most applicants.
How to Apply
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We buy tickets on Chinese platforms that don't accept foreign cards.
Tell us your vibe and we suggest spots locals actually go to.
川家本帮
上海市黄浦区中山东一路外滩附近
Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu, near The Bund, Huangpu District
Show this to your DiDi driver. Enjoy dinner!
慕田峪长城
北京市怀柔区渲海镇慕田峪村
Mutianyu Village, Bohai Town, Huairou District
I recommend booking a DiDi for ~150 RMB one way (~1.5 hrs). Want me to arrange a round-trip driver instead? About 500 RMB for the day with waiting time.
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