The Beijing Metro is one of the most extensive and busiest metro systems in the world, serving as the backbone of public transportation in China’s bustling capital. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned resident, this guide will provide everything you need to know about navigating the Beijing Metro.
Overview of the Beijing Subway System
Source: travelchinaguide.com
Beijing Metro is a common way to go around Beijing since traffic will be serious in central Beijing. As a visitor, it's best to avoid taking the subway during rush hours (7–10 AM and 5–8 PM on weekdays) to avoid the crowds.
Beijing Metro Popular Line Information
Line 1: The East-West Artery
Key Stations:
- Gucheng: Western terminus, providing access to residential areas.
- Tian'anmen West: Proximity to Tian'anmen Square and the Forbidden City.
- Wangfujing: Famous shopping street with numerous retail outlets and eateries.
- Huanqiu Dujiaqu (Universal Resort): Eastern terminus, serving the Universal Beijing Resort.
Line 2: The Circular Loop
Key Stations:
- Beijing Railway Station: Major hub for national rail services.
- Qianmen: Access to historic Qianmen Street and Dashilan shopping area.
- Lama Temple (Yonghegong): Proximity to the renowned Lama Temple.
Line 3: New East-West Connector
Key Stations:
- Dongsi Shitiao: Transfer to Line 2, close to Sanlitun nightlife area.
- Tuanjiehu: Near Sanlitun shopping and entertainment district.
- Chaoyang Park: Provides access to Beijing’s largest city park.
- Chaoyang: A key transportation hub in eastern Beijing.
Line 4: North-South Connector
Key Stations:
- Beigongmen: Closest station to the Summer Palace.
- Zhongguancun: Known as China's Silicon Valley, a hub for technology and electronics.
- National Library: Access to the National Library of China.
- Beijing South Railway Station: Major station for high-speed trains.
Line 5: Central Axis Route
Key Stations:
- Tiantongyuanbei: Northern terminus serving residential areas.
- Yonghegong (Lama Temple): Access to the Lama Temple and Confucius Temple.
- Tiantan Dongmen: East gate of the Temple of Heaven Park.
- Songjiazhuang: Southern terminus with transfer options.
Line 6: Northern Parallel
Key Stations:
- Ping'anli: Transfer point with Line 4.
- Nanluoguxiang: Access to historic alleyways and traditional architecture.
- Dongdaqiao: Proximity to the Central Business District.
- Lucheng: Eastern terminus serving suburban areas.
Line 10: The Outer Loop
Key Stations:
- Bagou: Access to the Xijiao Line.
- Sanyuanqiao: Transfer to the Capital Airport Express.
- Guomao: Major interchange in the Central Business District.
- Shuangjing: Residential and commercial area with shopping centers
See All Attractions
411024 booked
Ticketing Options
Single-Journey Tickets
Available at ticket vending machines in all stations. Fares are distance-based, starting at ¥3 for trips up to 6 km, with incremental increases for longer distances. You can directly buy a ticket through vending machine:
Source: beijing.gov.cn
Yikatong Card (Beijing Transportation Smart Card)
A rechargeable card offering convenience and fare discounts. It can be used on subways, buses, and even some taxis. Purchase and recharge the card at service counters within subway stations.
Alipay Digital Metro Card
The easiest way to ride Shanghai Metro is using Alipay's digital transport card, especially for international visitors. Just download Alipay, go to the "Transport" section on the homepage, and select "Transport. Beijing." You will find many transport options: metro, bus, bike taxi.
Source: beijing.gov.cn
Beijing Metro Hours & Ticket Prices
Fare Structure
The Beijing Metro employs a distance-based fare system:
- Base Fare: ¥3 for the first 6 kilometers.
- Incremental Charges:
| Distance | Fare | Common Routes |
| 6 - 12 km | ¥4 | Beijing Railway Station → Wangfujing (Line 2 & 1) |
| 12 - 22 km | ¥5 | Dongzhimen → Beijing South Railway Station (Line 2 & 4) |
| 22 - 32 km | ¥6 | Olympic Park → Qianmen (Line 8 & 2) |
| 32 - 52 km | ¥7 | Beijing West Railway Station → Capital Airport (Line 7, 10, Airport Express) |
| 52 - 72 km | ¥9 | Changping → Tiananmen (Changping Line & Line 4) |
| 72+ km | +¥2 per 20 km | Daxing → Haidian (Daxing Line & Line 4) |
| Airport Express | ¥25 | Dongzhimen → Capital Airport |
Operating Hours
The Beijing Metro operates daily, with most lines running from approximately 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM. However, exact times can vary by line and station:
- First Trains: Typically depart between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM.
- Last Trains: Generally depart between 10:00 PM and 11:00 PM.
During peak hours (around 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM), trains arrive every 3 to 5 minutes. In off-peak times, intervals may extend to 6 to 10 minutes.
How to take Beijing Metro to Attractions
1. The Forbidden City (Palace Museum)
Subway Directions:
- Line 1: Take Line 1 to Tiananmen East Station (天安门东站) or Tiananmen West Station (天安门西站).
- Exits: Use Exit B at Tiananmen East Station for the Forbidden City.
Tips:
- The Forbidden City requires advance ticket booking.
- Allocate at least half a day to explore the vast complex.
2. Temple of Heaven (Tiantan Park)
Subway Directions:
- Line 5: Take Line 5 to Tiantan Dongmen Station (天坛东门站).
- Exit: Use Exit A1 to reach the East Gate of the Temple of Heaven.
Tips:
- Morning visits offer a chance to see locals practicing Tai Chi.
- The park is expansive; wear comfortable walking shoes.
3. Summer Palace (Yiheyuan)
Subway Directions:
- Line 4: Take Line 4 to Beigongmen Station (北宫门站).
- Exit: Use Exit D to arrive near the North Gate of the Summer Palace.
Tips:
- Plan for a half-day visit to enjoy the gardens, lakes, and historic structures.
- Boat rides on Kunming Lake are available during warmer months.
4. Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple)
Subway Directions:
- Line 5: Take Line 5 to Yonghegong (Lama Temple) Station (雍和宫站).
- Exit: Use Exit C to reach the temple entrance.
Tips:
- The temple is an active place of worship; maintain respectful behavior.
- Photography is restricted in certain areas; observe posted signs.
5. Beihai Park
Subway Directions:
- Line 6: Take Line 6 to Beihai North Station (北海北站).
- Exit: Use Exit B to access the park's North Gate.
Tips:
- The park features a large lake; consider renting a boat for a leisurely experience.
- Visit the White Dagoba and the Nine-Dragon Screen within the park.
6. National Stadium (Bird's Nest)
Subway Directions:
- Line 8: Take Line 8 to Olympic Sports Center Station (奥体中心站).
- Exit: Use Exit B2 and walk north approximately 800 meters to the stadium.
Tips:
- Evening visits offer a chance to see the stadium illuminated.
- The nearby Water Cube (National Aquatics Center) is also worth a visit.
7. Sanlitun Bar Street
Subway Directions:
- Line 10: Take Line 10 to Tuanjiehu Station (团结湖站).
- Exit: Use Exit A and walk west to the first traffic light, then turn right to reach Sanlitun.
Tips:
- Sanlitun is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, restaurants, and shops.
- The area can be crowded during weekends; plan accordingly.
What should notice for Beijing Metro?
1. Security Checks at Every Entrance
2. No Eating or Drinking Allowed
3. Mobile Payment is the Easiest Way to Pay
4. Announcements are Bilingual
5. Transfers Can Be Long
6. First and Last Train Times Vary by Line
Beijing Hotels Recommodation
From now until stock last, you can enjoy up to 8% off hotel deals on Trip.com when you register as a member on desktop or app!
FAQs
How much does the Beijing Metro cost?
The fare is based on distance. The base fare is ¥3 for the first 6 km, with additional charges as distance increases.Do I need a Yikatong card, or can I buy single tickets?
Both options are available. The Yikatong card is convenient for multiple rides, while single tickets can be purchased at vending machines.What time does the Beijing Metro open and close?
Most lines operate from around 5:00 AM – 11:30 PM, but times vary. Always check the schedule for specific lines.How do I get to Beijing Capital International Airport by metro?
Take the Airport Express Line from Dongzhimen (Lines 2, 13) or Sanyuanqiao (Line 10) to Terminal 2 or Terminal 3.