Transport & Getting Around
Getting around China: high-speed rail (CR400, 350 km/h between Beijing-Shanghai in 4.5 hours), Didi (Chinese Uber, in-app English support), Beijing/Shanghai metros (use Alipay or WeChat ride codes), airport transfers, and how to book trains as a foreigner using your passport. Also which Chinese taxi apps actually accept overseas cards.
34 answers
What is the recommended strategy for booking domestic flights and optimizing a long-term China itinerary?
Book flights via Trip.com 4-6 weeks ahead; expect ¥800-1,500 on routes like Beijing-Shanghai and prices that drop, not rise, closer to departure.
What is the best transportation route from Wangxian Valley to Suzhou?
Ride the Ganyuexing shuttle bus from Wangxian Valley to Shangrao East Bus Station for ¥30; runs 7:40 am to 3:30 pm, takes 1 hour.
What should I do if I encounter an MTR service disruption in Hong Kong?
Open the MTR Mobile app first — it pushes English service updates faster than the platform PA, which lags 30 to 60 seconds.
Which iPhone mapping apps work in China and Hong Kong, and do they display English street names?
Use Apple Maps in mainland China; it pulls AutoNavi data and shows Pinyin street names when iOS language is English.
What are the typical daily rates for hiring a private driver with English-speaking capabilities in Guilin?
Budget ¥600–800 (US$85–110) per 8-hour day for a 5-seater sedan with an English-speaking driver in Guilin.
What is the best itinerary and transport advice for visiting major sights like the Giant Buddha and Victoria Peak in Hong Kong during the May holiday?
Ride MTR Tung Chung Line to the Ngong Ping 360 cable car for Tian Tan Buddha; HK$235 return, 25 minutes each way.
What are the options for public transportation from Tashkurgan to Kashgar, and do I need to book tickets in advance?
Catch the 8 AM or 3 PM Tashkurgan–Kashgar bus for ¥51, a six-hour run along the Karakoram Highway.
What are the recommended time allocations for immigration and transport when leaving Hong Kong Airport during a layover?
Allow 5 hours minimum for a city visit; 7 hours is the safer threshold once immigration and Airport Express times stack up.
Which section of the Great Wall did you visit near Beijing, and what was the most convenient transportation method to get there?
Book the Mubus shuttle from Dongzhimen for ¥40 one-way through the 慕巴士 WeChat account; departures at 9 AM and 10 AM.
How do I book high-speed trains in China?
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