Getting around China is one of the first things you figure out as a visitor or expat. Taxis, metro lines, buses and the unwritten rules locals follow shape your daily routine more than any guidebook.
In China, getting around comes down to a few things: high-speed rail is transformative, metro systems are massive, and didi for rides.
China's HSR network is the world's largest. Beijing to Shanghai in 4.5 hours. Book on 12306 app or Trip.com. Second class is comfortable and half the price of first.
Tip: Passport required for booking and boarding. Arrive 30 minutes early — stations are airport-sized.
Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu have enormous metro networks. Use Alipay or WeChat Pay for tickets. English signage exists in major cities.
China's Uber equivalent. Works everywhere. Download before arrival and link a payment method. Taxis exist but drivers rarely speak English — having your destination in Chinese characters is essential.