China Metro Guide: Maps, Riding & Payment Tips

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China Metro

About China Metro

Clean, fast, and wallet-friendly, the China Metro is the easiest way to zip around cities like Beijing and Shanghai. With English signs and Alipay for quick payments, it’s a no-brainer for stress-free exploring—just hop on and go!

​City​Total Length (km)​Lines​StationsGeneral ​Operating Hours
Beijing727274905:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Shanghai831205085:30 AM - 11:30 PM
Guangzhou621163146:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Shenzhen547163696:00 AM - 12:00 AM
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How to Use the China Metro

How to Use the China Metro

Source from Wikipedia

Entering the Station


Look for the metro logo (usually red and white) and follow signs in both Chinese and English. Most stations have elevators for heavy bags or strollers.

Security Check


Pass your bags through an X-ray machine and walk through a security gate. It’s quick and painless—just like airport security but faster!

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How to Use the China Metro

Source from ENGLISH.GOV.CN

Getting a Ticket

    • Mobile Payment: Use apps like Alipay(Recommended) or WeChat for QR code scanning at the gates.
    • Physical Tickets: Buy from self-service machines (English option available) or ticket counters.
How to Use the China Metro

Source from Wikipedia

Getting to the Platform


Follow color-coded signs for your line. Insert your ticket or scan your QR code at the turnstile, then head to your platform.

Waiting and Boarding


Stand behind the yellow safety line and let passengers exit before boarding. Trains arrive every 2-7 minutes, depending on the time of day.

How to Use the China Metro

Source from Wikimedia Commons

During Your Ride


Watch the screens and listen to announcements (in Chinese and English) to track your stops. Trains are clean, air-conditioned, and comfortable.

Exiting the Station


Scan your ticket or QR code to exit. Check the exit guides for nearby landmarks (or see on map app) and choose the right one for your destination.


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🎁 Book the Cheapest flights to China & search the best China hotels! Get connected fast with China eSIM.

How to Pay for China Metro?

How to Pay for China Metro?

Single Journey Tickets


Great for one-time trips, these tickets are available at ​automated machines (with English options) or ​service counters in every station. Just tap your destination on the map, pay with cash or card, and you’re good to go. Keep your ticket flat—it’s a magnetic card you’ll need to insert at exits.

How to Pay for China Metro?

Public Transportation Card


A reusable smart card that’s perfect for frequent travelers.

    • Cost: 20 yuan deposit (refundable).
    • Perks: Works on metros, buses, and taxis, with a ​10% discount on metro transfers within 30 minutes.
    • Top-Up: Add money at station machines, service counters, or convenience stores (minimum 20 yuan).
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Source from viajeroslowcosteros

Mobile Payments (The Best Option!)

    • Alipay: My personal favorite! Just download Alipay, go to the "Transport" section on the homepage, and select "Transport. Shanghai(or other city)." You will find many transport options:metro, bus, bike taxi. Link your card, get a QR code, and scan it at the gates—super easy and foreigner-friendly.
    • WeChat: While it works similarly, it requires a lot of identification and setup, which can be tricky for foreigners. Stick with Alipay for a smoother experience.

China Metro Maps - Top City Metro Maps in China

Beijing Metro Map

China Metro Map

Beijing Metro Map

The Beijing Metro is not only the largest metro system in China but also one of the busiest in the world. With over 27 lines and 500+ stations, it connects every corner of the capital city, from the historic Forbidden City to the modern CBD areas. The metro map is color-coded and easy to navigate, with English signs and announcements to help international travelers. Pro tip: Avoid peak hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) to escape the crowds!

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🎁 Book the Cheapest flights to China & search the best China hotels! Get connected fast with China eSIM.

Shanghai Metro Map

China Metro Map

Shanghai Metro Map

Shanghai Metro holds the title for the world’s longest metro system, spanning over 800 kilometers of track. It’s a lifeline for the city’s 24 million residents and a convenient option for tourists visiting iconic spots like the Bund, Nanjing Road, and Disneyland. The metro map is well-organized, and the system is known for its punctuality and cleanliness. Don’t forget to use mobile payment options like Alipay or WeChat Pay for a hassle-free experience!

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NO.1
Youli Hotel (Shanghai People's Square)
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Blossom House · Shanghai On The Bund
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NO.3
Shijia Homestay (Lujiazui Shanghai Branch)
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NO.5
Guisu Homestay (Nanjing West Road)
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NO.6
Waiting Century Hotel (Shanghai Jing'an Railway Station)
9.1/105039 reviews
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Guangzhou Metro Map

China Metro Map

Guangzhou Metro Map

Guangzhou Metro is a shining example of modern urban transportation in southern China. With 16 lines and counting, it seamlessly connects the city’s business hubs, cultural landmarks, and transportation hubs like Guangzhou South Railway Station. The metro is known for its efficiency and affordability, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. If you’re exploring the Canton Tower or Shamian Island, the metro is your best bet for getting around.

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Shenzhen Metro Map

China Metro Map

Shenzhen Metro Map

Shenzhen Metro is a testament to the city’s rapid development and innovation. As one of the youngest metro systems in China, it boasts cutting-edge technology, including driverless trains and smart ticketing systems. With 16 lines and extensive coverage, it’s perfect for exploring Shenzhen’s tech hubs, shopping districts, and theme parks like Window of the World. Plus, the metro is incredibly clean and safe, making it a joy to use.

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Other Metro Systems in China (Chengdu, Hangzhou, etc.)

Beyond the top four cities, China is home to several other impressive metro systems. Chengdu Metro, for instance, is expanding rapidly and is a great way to explore the city’s vibrant food scene and cultural sites. Hangzhou Metro, on the other hand, offers a scenic ride to the famous West Lake and other tourist attractions. These systems may not be as large as Beijing or Shanghai, but they are equally efficient and user-friendly.

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Bethy

Bethy

Trip.com Travel Expert

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Hey there! I’m Bethy (Huang Lan, 黄澜) – a travel enthusiast and content creator for Trip.com. I live as a digital nomad, mostly based in China, and I’ve also lived in awesome places across Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe. I love traveling all over the world, sharing useful travel tips and guides for fellow wanderlusters. When I’m not on the road, I’m a huge cat lover and play guitar for fun~

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