China has some of the best public transport in the world, and travelling between its cities is easier than most first-time visitors expect. The main decision is usually train versus plane; within cities, the metro is almost always the fastest option.

High-Speed Rail

China’s high-speed rail network is the backbone of independent travel in the country. Trains are fast, punctual and comfortable, with reserved seats, luggage space and food trolleys.

Two things are worth knowing:

• G trains are the fastest services, stopping less often. D trains are slightly slower but often cheaper.
• Your passport is your ticket. There is no separate paper ticket for most services — your passport is scanned at the gate. Carry it on you at all times.

At large stations you will pass through a security check before the departure hall, then find your gate and platform. Arrive 40–60 minutes before departure in major cities; stations are large and boarding closes a few minutes before the train leaves.

Book in advance for popular routes and especially around public holidays. Tickets usually open for sale roughly two weeks ahead.

Domestic Flights

Flying makes sense for long distances — for example, Beijing to Chengdu or Shanghai to Yunnan — where rail would take most of a day. For journeys under about four or five hours by rail, the train usually wins once you account for airport transfers and check-in.

Domestic airports are modern and efficient, but they are often far from city centres. Factor the transfer into your planning.

Overnight Trains

For very long routes, an overnight sleeper can save a hotel night. Conditions vary considerably between train classes, so check what you are booking — a soft sleeper berth is a very different experience from a hard seat.

Getting Around Cities

Metro

In Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Xi’an, Chongqing and most other large cities, the metro is cheap, fast, air-conditioned and signed in English. It is usually the best option for getting across a city. You can pay with a transport card, a QR code in Alipay or WeChat, or a single-journey ticket machine.

Taxis and ride-hailing

Didi is the dominant ride-hailing app and has an English interface. It is generally cheaper than a traditional taxi and removes the language barrier, since the destination is entered in the app rather than explained to the driver.

Metered taxis are widely available and reliable in major cities. Have your destination written in Chinese, and keep small notes for payment in case mobile payment is not accepted.

Buses and bike share

City buses are extensive and very cheap but harder to use without Chinese. Shared bikes are everywhere in larger cities and are useful for short hops — they are unlocked through Alipay or WeChat.

River Cruises

The classic multi-day option is the Yangtze River cruise between Chongqing and Yichang, sailing through the Three Gorges. It is a comfortable way to see a part of the country that is difficult to reach overland.

Planning Your Route

A good rule of thumb is to limit yourself to a maximum of one intercity move every two or three days. China’s cities are large, and the time spent getting to stations, checking in and finding your hotel adds up quickly. Fewer cities, more time in each, almost always makes for a better trip.