China Transportation FAQ — Trains, Didi, Subways

Trip.com is the easiest option — English interface, international payment, e-ticket to your phone. You can also buy at the station with your passport. High-speed trains are excellent: clean, punctual, affordable. Beijing to Shanghai (4.5h) costs about ¥600 in second class. Book popular routes 3-5 days ahead. I recommend second class for short trips (it's like airline premium economy) and first class for journeys over 3 hours.

Download the app, register with your phone number, add your international card. The app has an English version. Enter your destination in English or Chinese, and a car arrives in 2-5 minutes. It's 30-50% cheaper than taxis. One tip: if you're at the airport or train station, follow the Didi pickup signs — there are dedicated waiting areas. I use Didi myself every time I'm in China.

Very. Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Shenzhen — all have extensive metro systems with English signs, English announcements, and ticket machines with English interfaces. You can buy single-ride tickets with cash or use Alipay's transport QR code. The Beijing subway is especially easy — it has a dedicated tourist line that connects all major attractions. Download 'Metro China' or 'Explore Metro' for offline maps.

I strongly advise against it. Chinese driving culture is different — lane markings are suggestions, scooters appear from nowhere, and parking is chaotic. International driving permits are not recognized in most of China. Your options: high-speed trains between cities, Didi within cities, and private drivers if you want comfort. I've been driving in China for 15 years and I still take the train whenever I can.