Taking Buses and the Subway in Beijing: A Foreign Visitor’s Guide to Entry, Transfers, and Payment

Beijing’s dense subway network is convenient for foreign visitors getting around the city. Single-journey tickets can be purchased from station vending machines or customer service centers. Beijing Subway currently accepts several types of domestic and international contactless bank cards at its gates; use the same card when entering and exiting. For buses, you can pay with coins or follow the onboard instructions to use a transit card or ride code. When checking routes in a map app, note the first and last service times, transfer stations, and subway exit numbers. Generally, board buses through the front door and exit through the rear. On routes with distance-based fares, follow the instructions to tap or scan both when boarding and alighting. Allow extra time for queues during rush hour and keep your belongings secure. If you are unsure of your route, show station staff the Chinese name of your destination.