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出行指南

Getting Around in China

China's transportation infrastructure is world-class. Here's how to navigate it.

Ride-Hailing

  • **Didi (滴滴):** China's Uber. The app has an English version. Link to Alipay or international card.
  • **Tip:** Didi is available in all major cities. Much cheaper than taxis in most countries.

Metro / Subway

  • **Guangzhou Metro:** 16 lines, clean, efficient, signs in English and Chinese.
  • **Shenzhen Metro:** 12 lines, equally modern.
  • **Payment:** Buy single tickets at machines (English available) or use Alipay/WeChat transit QR code.
  • **Tip:** Avoid rush hour (8-9 AM, 6-7 PM) — it gets extremely crowded.

High-Speed Trains

  • **Guangzhou ↔ Shenzhen:** 30 minutes, ~¥75
  • **Guangzhou ↔ Yiwu:** 6-7 hours
  • **Booking:** Trip.com or 12306.cn (Chinese only). Book 1-2 weeks ahead for busy routes.

Buses

  • Cheapest option but harder for non-Chinese speakers.
  • Alipay transit QR codes work on most city buses.

Shared Bikes

  • **Meituan Bike (美团单车)** and **Hello Bike (哈啰单车)** are everywhere.
  • Scan QR code with Alipay or WeChat to unlock. ~¥1.5 per ride.

From the Airport

  • **Guangzhou Baiyun Airport (CAN):** Metro Line 3 to city center (40 min, ¥8). Taxi ~¥120 to Tianhe.
  • **Shenzhen Bao'an Airport (SZX):** Metro Line 11 to city center. Taxi ~¥100 to Huaqiangbei.