Beijing Transport Guide 2025: Getting Around Beijing Easily

Beijing is huge, how on earth am I gonna get around?😅 But surprisingly, once I got the hang of it, navigating the capital wasn’t as intimidating as I expected. 

Beijing’s transport system is older in parts, but also fast, cheap, and way more extensive. Plus, you get these incredible views of historic landmarks while riding around—like zipping past the Forbidden City on Line 1. Totally surreal!

The vibe? Let’s just say, you feel the pulse of the city when you’re on the move. During peak hours, the subway is packed but punctual. And the high-speed trains? Game-changer for day trips outside the city.

So, whether you’re commuting, exploring, or just trying to find your next bowl of something delicious—here’s everything you need to know about getting around in Beijing.

✈️ Beijing Airport Transfers

For Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), the fastest way into the city is the Airport Express Line. It connects you to key subway stations like Dongzhimen and Sanyuanqiao in about 20 minutes.

If you're arriving at the newer Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX), you’ve got a few solid options:

• 🚄 The Daxing Airport Express zips you into the city in around 30–40 minutes.
• 🚇 The subway Line 19 links up nicely if you're heading south.
• 🚕 And of course, taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi work well too.

Both airports also have airport buses and shuttle services to popular city hubs and hotels.

👉 Read the full Beijing Airport to City Guide for all the routes, tips, and local hacks!

🚇 Beijing Subway

Source: Travel China Guide

The Beijing Subway（北京地铁） totally surprised me—in a good way! When I first landed, I expected it to be a bit old-school or confusing (given how massive Beijing is), but nope—it’s modern, reliable, and seriously a budget traveler’s dream. 

With one of the largest subway networks in the world, Beijing’s subway has 29 lines and keeps expanding. It links up nearly every major sight—from the Forbidden City to the 798 Art Zone, and even to both airports (PEK & PKX). 

Most signs are in Chinese and English, and the newer trains are clean, air-conditioned, and even have digital maps to track your ride.

🕒 Operating Hours & Frequency

💳 Ticket & Payment

It’s super affordable: ¥3–10 per ride (about S$0.55–1.79).

Most locals (and savvy travelers) use the Yikatong card (一卡通), Beijing’s version of the EZ-Link. Just tap in and out—easy. You can get one at most subway stations and recharge at machines.

If you’ve got Alipay or WeChat Pay linked to a Chinese bank card, you can scan a QR code directly at the gates too. Super convenient if you're set up digitally.

Source: Every day journey from Trip Moments

📍 Key Tourist Stops

Here are a few major stations you’ll likely pass through—always busy, but well-marked and helpful for sightseeing:

• Tiananmen East/West (Line 1): For the Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square.
• Dongzhimen (Line 2/13 + Airport Express): Airport link + food streets nearby.
• Beijing Railway Station (Line 2): Train connections and central access.
• Qianmen (Line 2): For Qianmen Street, hutongs & Peking duck restaurants.
• Beijing South Railway Station (Line 4/14): High-speed rail hub.
• National Library (Line 4/9): For museums & scenic walks.
• Beijing Zoo (Line 4):  If you're traveling with kids.

⚠️ Tips

• Line 1 & Line 2 (the circle line) can get really packed during rush hour—brace yourself during 7–9am and 5–7pm.
• Some stations have multiple exits (like A to H!)—so double-check the signs or use navigation apps like Amap (Gaode Map) or Baidu Maps.
• Always stand on the right side of the escalator—left is for walking.
• Prepare small change or a transport card if you’re not using mobile payment.

🚌 Buses

Source: Wikipedia

Beijing’s buses are cheap, reliable, and go to places the subway skips, like hidden hutongs, older neighbourhoods, and scenic parks. A typical ride costs just ¥2 or less (about S$0.36), and many seniors ride for free with their local card and QR code.

While most tourists stick to the subway, hopping on a bus can give you a more local feel of the city. It’s not the most foreigner-friendly mode (Mandarin-only signs, older buses), but if you’re feeling adventurous—or just want a window seat ride through the hutongs—it’s worth a try.

🕒 Timings & Frequency

💳 How to Ride?

You can pay with a Yikatong card（一卡通）, which works across the subway, buses, and even airport express lines. Just tap when you get on. Some buses charge based on distance, so don’t forget to tap out when you exit.

More and more buses now support Alipay/WeChat Pay QR codes—look for the little scanner near the door. If you're paying with cash, prepare exact change (usually ¥1 or ¥2)—no change is given.

Tip: Always board from the front door, and exit through the middle or back.

⚠️ Tips

• No English signs or announcements—so use Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode Map) to track your route in real-time.
• Some buses have no air-con in older fleets, especially in less central areas (but still safe and clean).
• Buses can get crowded during rush hour, especially routes near schools, hospitals, and government offices.

🚕 Taxis & Ride-Hailing in Beijing

Source: Wikipedia

Getting a taxi in Beijing is usually quite easy—especially around hotels, malls, or train stations. Most are blue, yellow, or green cabs, and they’re all government-licensed with meters. It’s generally safe, but do stay alert and avoid any “private car” touts.

That said, just like in Singapore, locals now mostly use ride-hailing apps. It’s quicker, more transparent, and you don’t have to explain your destination in Mandarin (which can be tough with regular taxi drivers).

📱 Popular Ride-Hailing Apps

The most common app is Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行)—basically China’s Grab. It works well with Singapore credit cards, shows fixed upfront prices, and has English support (though some translations can be a bit quirky).

Another option is Meituan (美团打车) or Amap Taxi (高德打车), which compare fares from different providers—but they’re mainly in Chinese, so best if you're comfortable with the language or have a Chinese-speaking friend.

💸 Fare Estimates in Beijing

Here’s a quick sense of the prices:

• Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) to city center: ~¥100–150 (about S$18–28).
• Daxing Airport (PKX) to city: ~¥200–260 (about S$36–48).
• Typical short city ride: ~¥15–35 (about S$3–7).

💰 How to Pay?

If you're using Didi, you’ll pay in-app via card, Alipay, or WeChat Pay.

For street taxis, too. Many support digital payments, but don’t count on it. Always check the meter is running when you hop in.

⚠️ Tips

• Taxi drivers rarely speak English—if you're going somewhere tricky, show the Chinese name or address.
• Use GPS to track your route—it helps avoid detours.
• During peak hours or bad weather, getting a Didi can be tough—try booking in advance, or be flexible with wait times.

🚴‍♂️ Bike Sharing

Source: Wikipedia

In Beijing, bike-sharing is everywhere—and honestly, it’s one of the best ways to explore the city’s wide streets and hutong alleys.

You won’t find Grab-style motorbike taxis like in Southeast Asia, but if you're up for a bit of pedalling (or e-bike cruising), shared bikes are a super fun and cheap way to get around—especially for short distances or last-mile rides from the subway.

📍 Where to Find Bike Sharing in Beijing?

Look around any subway exit, shopping street, or residential block, and you’ll likely see a colourful lineup of parked bikes. They're dockless, so you can unlock them almost anywhere and park in any designated zone.

The two most common:

• Hello Bike (哈啰单车) – Blue or light blue.
• Meituan Bike (美团单车) – Bright yellow.

📲 How to Use?

You’ll need the Hello Bike or Meituan app, or access through Alipay/WeChat.

1. Open the app or scan within Alipay/WeChat.
2. Find a bike nearby.
3. Scan the QR code to unlock.
4. Ride and park in a proper spot.
5. Tap "End Ride" in the app.

💸 Most rides cost ¥1–2 (S$0.20–0.40) for every 15 minutes.

⚠️ Tips for First-Time Riders

• Helmets aren't provided—so ride with care, especially on main roads.
• Avoid rainy weather—Beijing roads get slippery fast and there’s little shelter.
• Stick to bike lanes (Beijing has quite a few!), and never ride on expressways or highways.

⛴️ Boat & Ferry

You might not think of boats when planning a trip to Beijing—but if you're visiting in spring or autumn, taking a leisurely boat ride is actually one of the most relaxing ways to see the city.

It’s not meant for daily commuting like in some cities, but rather for scenic experiences—great for families, couples, or anyone who enjoys a slower pace.

📍 Where You Can Take a Boat in Beijing?

Boats mainly operate in parks and lakes, especially in central Beijing. These aren’t ferries in the usual sense, but more like small leisure boats and tourist water shuttles.

Here are some popular spots:

• Beihai Park / Shichahai (什刹海): Pedal boats, electric boats, and scenic cruises through the lakes and old hutong areas.
• Summer Palace (颐和园): Gorgeous lake cruises across Kunming Lake with mountain views.
• Grand Canal (通惠河段): Limited seasonal boat tours from Tongzhou; less touristy, more local vibe.
• Chaoyang Park: Fun pedal boats and family-friendly options.

📅 When & How to Ride?

Seasonal only: Most boats run from April to October, closed in winter due to frozen water

Opening hours: Typically 9am to 5pm, with last rides around 4:30pm

No app needed: Just head to the dock, pay at the counter, and go

💸 Prices

• ~¥30–¥60 (S$5–12) for pedal/electric boats.
• ~¥80–¥120 (S$15–22) for scenic cruises or group boats.

Note: Often priced per boat, not per person.

⚠️ Tips

• Weekends can get crowded—especially around Beihai and Summer Palace.
• Most boats are cash-only or use WeChat/Alipay, so have a backup just in case.
• No English signage or commentary, but it’s still a peaceful ride.

🚗 Car Rentals & Driving in Beijing

Honestly, driving in central Beijing can be pretty overwhelming if you’re used to Singapore’s smooth roads. Expect heavy traffic, lots of rules (and restrictions), and a constant battle for parking spots. It’s not the easiest place to self-drive unless you’re prepared for a challenge.

That said, if you’re planning trips outside the city—like hitting the Great Wall, or exploring areas like Miyun or Huairou—renting a car can actually be a smart move. Especially if you’re travelling with family or a group and want more freedom.

📍 Where to Rent?

Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) and the new Daxing Airport (PKX) have plenty of rental counters. You can also book online through platforms like Trip.com, which offer English interfaces and solid customer support.

📄 Requirements for Tourists

Here’s the tricky part: your Singapore licence alone won’t cut it. You need to apply for a temporary Chinese driving permit before you can legally drive here. The basic requirements usually are:

You must apply for a temporary Chinese driving permit, which requires:

• A valid Singapore driving licence
• Passport
• Recent photo
• Short health check (sometimes at airport rental counters)

Make sure to get this sorted well before your trip.

💸 Cost

• Daily rental: From ¥250–400 (about S$45-72), economy to mid-size cars
• Deposit: ¥3,000–5,000 (about S$540-900)
• Fuel: Usually full-to-full policy
• Extra fees: Toll roads are common; parking in downtown can cost ¥10–20/hour  (about S$1.8-3.6) 

⚠️ What to Watch Out For?

• Driving here is on the right side of the road, opposite of Singapore, so be careful especially at junctions
• Traffic cameras are everywhere—speeding or running red lights = instant fines.
• Beijing has strict traffic restrictions: odd-even plate rules during pollution or peak times.
• Parking is a headache; many residential zones restrict non-local cars.

Unless you’re heading far out or need the flexibility, public transport and ride-hailing apps like Didi will save you a lot of stress in Beijing city. Enjoy the ride without the traffic headache! 

🚶 Exploring on Foot in Beijing

Is Beijing walkable? Definitely—though it’s a different vibe from Shanghai or Singapore. Beijing’s mix of wide boulevards, historic hutongs, and sprawling parks means walking can be both refreshing and a little adventure-filled.

If you’re staying near the city center or popular spots like the Forbidden City or Wangfujing, you can cover quite a lot on foot. But be prepared—some areas are huge, so for longer distances, hopping on the subway or a bike might save your feet.

🛣️ Walking Around Beijing

Beijing’s sidewalks are generally spacious, but watch out for busy intersections and occasional street vendors. The hutongs (traditional alleys) offer some of the best walking experiences—quiet, winding lanes full of local life, cafés, and quirky shops.

For navigation, Google Maps works if you have a VPN, but locals rely on Baidu Maps or Amap—both mostly in Chinese. For offline backup, Maps.me is a solid choice.

Street signs in touristy spots are mostly bilingual, but less so in residential areas. Beijing is quite safe to walk around during the day, but at night, it’s best to stick to well-lit main streets.

🌦️ Weather in Beijing

Beijing’s climate is more extreme than Singapore’s. Summers can get very hot and dry, so sunscreen and water are must-haves. Winters? Cold and sometimes snowy, so bundle up! Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather for long walks, with crisp air and colourful leaves in parks.

📸 Top Walks to Try

• The Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square area: Iconic, grand, and packed with history.
• Nanluoguxiang Hutong: A lively lane with cafes, shops, and a real hutong feel.
• Houhai Lakes: Scenic and perfect for an afternoon stroll by the water.
• Olympic Park: Modern green spaces with wide paths and cool architecture.

⚠️ Tips

• Some sidewalks are uneven or narrow—watch your step.
• Traffic lights can be hit or miss on pedestrian wait times; be patient but alert.

🚄 China High Speed Train

China’s high-speed rail (HSR) system is seriously impressive—fast, sleek, and super reliable. Zooming along at speeds up to 350 km/h, it lets you travel in just a few hours, cutting down travel time massively.

The trains are spotless, run on time, and offer a comfy ride with seating options ranging from economy to business class. Booking tickets online is easy (Trip.com is a fave among travelers), and major stations usually have English signs to help you navigate. For most trips, hopping on the high-speed train is often quicker and less hassle than flying.

🎯 Which Option is Best for You?

Getting around Beijing is part of the charm—whether you’re cruising on the subway, catching a taxi after a day of sightseeing, or enjoying a stroll along the lakes in the hutongs. Beijing moves at its own pace: busy and historic, but surprisingly manageable once you know the ropes.

Mix and match your rides—subway for quick citywide travel, taxis or Didi for convenience, and maybe a bike or a walk to soak in the local vibe. Having mobile data is a game-changer here, so be sure to check out the best eSIM options for China.