Overview:
Public transportation Beijing has vast system and includes various modes such as trains, trams, metros, buses, taxis, bikes, and rickshaws. The city’s public transportation is known for its efficiency and convenience, serving millions of passengers daily.
Operators:
Rapid Transit Systems:
- Beijing Subway: Operated by the Beijing Mass Transit Railway Operation Corp., it’s the second-largest subway system in the world with 23 lines and around 390 stations.
Buses:
- Beijing Public Bus System: More than 1,200 bus routes, including regular downtown lines, suburban lines, night lines, and intercity lines.
Table: Transportation Systems:
| Transportation | Operator Name | Website URL |
|---|---|---|
| Metro | Beijing Subway | Official Site |
| Bus | Beijing Public Bus System | Official Site |
Guide on Ticket Purchasing:
- Fare Rates: Fares are based on distance travelled, ranging from 3 to 9 yuan. Airport Express Lines have fixed rates.
- Types of Passes: Single trip tickets and a stored-value card called Yikatong are available. Yikatongs can also be used for buses, taxis, and public bicycles.
- Digital Passes: iPhone users can use Apple Pay with Apple Wallet, while Android users can download Easy Pass.
- Yikatong Cards: Available at subway stations, Airport Express Train windows, Transportation Smart Card Service Centers, and some branches of the Agricultural Bank of China.
- Single Trip Tickets: Available at ticket vending machines in subway stations. Payment via WeChat or Alipay is also possible.
- Buses: Payment can be made by cash, Yikatong, Easy Pass app, or Apple Pay.
Major Passenger Airports and Ways to City Centre:
- Capital Airport: Connected by the Airport Express line to Dongzhimen, Terminal 3, and Terminal 2. It takes about 20 minutes to Dongzhimen and costs 25 yuan.
- Beijing Daxing International Airport: Linked to Caoqiao and Daxing New City stations. The trip takes 19 minutes, costs 10 to 50 yuan.
- Shuttles: Both airports have shuttle bus lines to the city centre.
Walking & Biking Facilities:
- Bikes: Beijing has 86,000 public bicycles for rent from docking stations. Almost every road has a bike lane. Bikes are free for the first hour and then cost 1 yuan per hour.
- Rickshaws: A fun way to see the hutongs, but fares must be negotiated with the driver.
- Walking: Many areas in Beijing are pedestrian-friendly, and walking is a common way to explore the city’s narrow streets and historical sites.
