Public Transport

Question

I am receiving conflicting advice re buses/subway.

Can we use "foreign" credit/debit cards to tap on and off.

Can we pay cash

Should I buy a "travel card?

I have been told I can buy a card that is accepted in several cities.

Many thanks

Answer

Beijing has an extensive public transportation network, including buses and subways. Here’s detailed guidance on payment methods and travel cards for visitors:

Payment Methods:

Foreign credit/debit cards: Most Beijing subway and bus systems do not accept foreign contactless credit or debit cards directly at the turnstiles. You will need a local card, mobile payment app, or a transit card.
Cash: Cash payment is usually only accepted on buses, and even then, exact change is often required. Subways do not accept cash at the gates; you must use a ticket, travel card, or mobile payment.
Mobile payment: Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted, but these require either a Chinese bank account or a foreign card linked via their international versions. Some international credit cards can be linked to these apps now.

Travel Cards:

Beijing Transportation Smart Card (Yikatong / 市政交通一卡通): Can be purchased at subway stations. It works on subways, buses, and some taxis within Beijing. You tap in and tap out, and fares are deducted automatically.
Intercity or multi-city cards: Some Chinese cities have cards that are interoperable, such as the China T-Union card. These cards can be used in multiple cities’ public transport systems, but availability for tourists may require registration and/or a local ID.
Single tickets: For occasional use, you can buy single subway tickets at machines or counters using cash or a local payment card.

Recommendations for visitors:

For convenience, buy a Beijing Yikatong card at the subway station. Load it with enough balance for your planned trips.
If you plan to visit multiple cities in China, check whether your travel card is compatible elsewhere (China T-Union or other regional cards).
Keep some cash handy for buses or taxis that may not accept cards.
Mobile payments like Alipay/WeChat are very convenient but may require setting up a tourist-friendly version or using a local SIM.

Overall, the easiest approach for first-time visitors is a Yikatong card for Beijing’s subway and buses, supplemented with cash or mobile payment for occasional taxis or smaller bus lines.

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