How to Use China Metro

Getting tickets and paying

In most cities you can pay with Alipay or WeChat Pay by scanning a QR code at the gate. Some cities also offer tourist passes and single-journey tickets from machines. Cash is accepted at ticket machines in most major stations.

Children under a certain height often ride free, but the policy varies by city.

Navigation and station layout

• English signs and announcements are common in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and other major cities.
• Station exits are numbered. Confirm the right exit before you walk out.
• Transfers within the same station are usually free and clearly signed.
• Security checks are at every station entrance. Bags go through a scanner.

Rush hour and etiquette

Avoid metros during morning and evening rush hours if you are carrying luggage. Lines can be intense on Line 1 and Line 2 in Beijing and Shanghai. Let people exit before boarding, keep phones charged for the fare QR, and stand right on escalators.

Conclusion

Use this guide with the site tools to turn general advice into a concrete plan. Before paying for anything non-refundable, verify live prices, official rules, transport availability, and holiday schedules.