Skip to content

Transport

China Transport Guide

Practical reference for navigating China's transport network: airports with transit visa rules and lounge guides, high-speed railway stations with entry and security tips, and urban metro systems with fare and ticketing guidance.

Getting around China

China's domestic transport network is one of the most extensive in the world. The high-speed rail (HSR) system covers over 45,000 kilometres of track and connects nearly every major city. For intercity journeys of up to three hours, HSR is generally faster and more convenient than flying once airport transfer times are included. For longer distances — Beijing to Kunming or Shanghai to Urumqi — domestic flights remain necessary. Within cities, metro systems now operate in more than 40 urban areas and are the most practical way to navigate urban China without a private car.

HSR network

45,000+

kilometres of high-speed track

Metro cities

40+

urban areas with operating metro

Daily HSR trips

8m+

passenger journeys by high-speed rail