Beijing's Subway System

Think like a local and travel smart with the Beijing subway
Noteworthy for: During rush hour, the trains and the platforms are chock-full of people who will happily push you aside to grab a space.

Word to the wise: Choose your exit well; walking on Beijing crossroads can be intimidating, so it's best to move underground when you can.
Beijing's clean and efficient subway system is a great way to travel like a local without having to speak Mandarin as fluently as they do. When the traffic overhead is paralysed - as it often is - this cost-effective option is a comforting certainty, running daily from 5am to 11pm. Rush hour is hectic though, so make sure you watch your wallet as you make your way through the sea of commuters.

With 14 lines and counting, this rapidly expanding transportation system is able to take you most places within the city and its suburbs. All maps and ticket dispensers are bilingual and you can get your RMB 2 one way ticket from the dispenser at the station's entrance. Once you've gone through the security check, just swipe your card thorough the barrier and off you go.