Transportation & Navigation FAQ

1. How to call taxis with phone?

Recommended apps: DiDi Chuxing (international version DiDi-Ride supports English + international credit cards) Meituan/Gaode taxi (need Chinese phone number registration, cash payment) Cash payment

2. Can I use credit cards for subway?

No, but can buy tickets through: Automatic ticket machines (cash/Alipay/WeChat) Purchase transportation union cards (like Beijing Yikatong, ¥20 deposit, nationwide use).

3. How to use shared bikes?

Steps: 1. Download Hellobike (supports passport real-name verification). 2. Scan QR code to unlock (¥199 deposit, some models are deposit-free). Note: OFO/Mobike have basically exited the market.

4. How to buy high-speed rail tickets?

Recommended channels: 12306 official website (English version) or Trip.com (international version, supports foreign card payment). Station windows (passport purchase, need to queue 1 hour in advance). Tip: Choose 'G' trains (faster than 'D' trains).

5. How early should I arrive at high-speed rail station?

Recommend: At least 45 minutes (passport manual verification + security check). Emergency channel: Can use 'green channel' 15 minutes before departure (need to show ticket to staff).

6. Are long-distance buses convenient?

Not recommended: Need ID card to buy tickets, and language barriers are significant (prioritize high-speed rail).

7. Can I drive in China with international license?

No! Must exchange for Chinese temporary driver's license (bring passport + home country license + translation to vehicle management office, requires exam). Exception: Hainan Free Trade Port pilot recognizes some countries' licenses (like UAE).

8. Which map app is best?

Baidu Maps (English version) or Gaode Maps (Chinese, but can voice input English addresses). Alternative: Maps.me (offline maps, marks useful info like attractions and toilets).

9. How to input English addresses for navigation?

Search 'pinyin + landmark' (like 'Beijing Zhongshan Park'). Ask hotel front desk to write destination in Chinese.

10. Can wheelchairs/strollers go on subway?

Yes, but need to: Use accessible elevators (usually need staff assistance). Avoid morning and evening rush hours (Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou subway crowding exceeds 200%).

11. Is there public transportation at night?

Major cities: Some subway lines operate until 23:30, night buses are scarce. Solution: DiDi night service fee +30%.

12. Can I use cash for taxis/subway?

Taxis: Yes (but drivers may not have change). Subway: Cash ticket purchase only supports ¥5/10 bills (prepare small change!).

13. Do scenic area shuttle buses need separate tickets?

Usually yes (like Jiuzhaigou ¥90/person), and only supports WeChat/Alipay QR code scanning.

14. How to avoid unlicensed taxis?

Identification methods: Refuse drivers who actively solicit customers. Insist on metered fare (ask for 'meter' Dǎ biǎo). Safe channels: Book through hotel.

15. What to do if navigation is inaccurate?

Reason: Chinese cities update quickly, maps lag behind. Solutions: Ask for directions: 'Excuse me, how do I get to XX?' (Qǐngwèn XX zěnme zǒu?). Use AR navigation (Baidu Maps feature).