Plan · Transport
Transport in China — overview
Modern China runs on rails. The high-speed network is the largest in the world and connects almost every provincial capital. For most travellers, the choice on a 1,500-km hop is whether to fly or take the train — and the answer is increasingly the train.
High-speed rail
The G-class and D-class high-speed services run at 300–350 km/h. Beijing to Shanghai 4h 28m, Beijing to Guangzhou 8h, Shanghai to Chengdu 11h. Punctual, second-class fare roughly half the equivalent flight. See the dedicated high-speed-rail page.
Domestic flights
Cheap, frequent, sometimes more time-efficient (Beijing–Urumqi, Shanghai–Lhasa). Major carriers Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, Hainan Airlines. Booking via Trip.com is reliable.
Intercity buses
For routes the train doesn't cover. Quality varies. Use only for places without rail or air service.
City metros
Most large cities have a metro. Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou are huge networks. Fares ¥3 and up. Pay by Alipay/WeChat scan-and-pay or transit card.
Taxis and ride-hailing
Metered taxis everywhere. Drivers rarely speak English; have your destination written in Chinese. Didi is the dominant ride-hailing app with an English version.
Driving
International Driving Permits are NOT valid for driving in mainland China. Renting a car as a tourist is impractical.
Boats and ferries
Limited role except for specific routes (Yangtze cruises, HK–Macau ferries, Shanghai–Putuoshan).