How to Get Around in Beijing

Would you be surprised to find out that car ownership in Beijing, and all of China, is very low? Given the level of traffic bottleneck here, a lot of tourists would. The fact is that private car ownership in Beijing is extremely low compared to other cities, but it has given rise to a good public transport network. So, if you are planning to spend a few days in Beijing and want to find out how to get around, this guide is for you.

Buses

This is the most common and inexpensive way to get around Beijing. There are plenty of regular buses that will take you anywhere you want, and the cost doesn’t usually exceed 2 Yuan. However, the fare changes according to the distance and is also a matter of how many stops you need to make along the way.

A lot of tourists wonder whether or not it’s safe to take the bus. It is, but you should be extra vigilant during rush hours. Buses get jampacked in the morning and the evening, so avoid those hours if you can. If it’s not an option, however, make sure you don’t have any valuables on you, but if you do, keep them close to you, and always keep your bag with you.

Subway

This is a very extensive transport network that Beijing offers. There are about 13 subway lines creating links between every region of the city. This means that you can use the subway to get anywhere in the city.

Tickets are not that expensive, but their validity expires the next day. Also, don’t lose the ticket; you need to feed it into the turnstile machine when you leave the subway station.

Sanlunche and Pedicabs

Sanlunche is essentially a tuk-tuk, a mode of transport prevalent in all of Southeast Asia. Chinese people call it boing boing on account of it being a bumpy ride. This is one of the best and least expensive ways to get around Beijing.

On the other hand, you have pedicabs. These are rickshaw taxis popular in touristy areas. Excellent for travelling short distances, pedicabs are a great way to get around and get a feel of the local life. However, pedicabs aren’t recommended for long rides on busy streets.

Cars

Staying at a luxury serviced residence in Beijing? Go to the reception and ask one of the staff to find a car for you. You can get one with a driver, which is not the most cost-effective way to get around, but it’s the safest.

Driving is possible, but it’s not an immediate option; China requires foreigners to get a Chinese driver’s license before they are allowed to drive.

If you are new here, you should get someone to arrange transport for you, which would be an easily available option if you choose the likes of Ascott Raffles City Beijing.

Scooters and bikes

Bikes and scooters are among the most popular methods of transport in Beijing. This is largely due to the bike share apps like OFO and Mobike. You can rent a bike or scooter and get to any destination within the city with relative ease. There are bike lanes as well, but you need to share them with other motorised vehicles.

Locals don’t wear helmets when riding bikes. Roads in Beijing are safe when compared to those in Southeast Asia. But if you don’t want to take any chances, you can wear a helmet.

Also, you don’t need a license to ride bikes, so bike riding is an immediately available option to you.

Walk

Be prepared to walk a lot as there are vast distances between bus stops and intersections. Local women walk long distances in high heels, but if you are not used to it, you should bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes.