Learn how to navigate Beijing with this guide to the Beijing Metro and taxis

Beijing, home to iconic landmarks like the Great Wall of China and Tiananmen Square, is a bustling city that’s surprisingly easy to navigate even for first-time visitors. From getting around Beijing with efficient subways and convenient ride-hailing options to paying for your shopping and especially with TNG eWallet, as it allows you to spend globally like a local with fast, cashless payments.

Metro: Fast, affordable, and tourist-friendly

Beijing’s subway is one of the world’s largest, with over 20 lines and over 500 stations. Operating from 5am to 11pm (some lines until midnight), it’s the best way to travel quickly and affordably.

How to get tickets to the Beijing Metro:

Vending machines: Self-service ticket vending machines can be found in every subway station in Beijing. It also lets you select your preferred language so you can choose your destination and station from the map, and how many tickets you’ll need without complications.

Manned ticket counters: Not sure where you are or where you are heading? No worries, you can get help from the employees at ticket counters who will gladly point you in the right direction.

Payment method: You can pay using cash, credit card, or using your TNG eWallet by scanning the Alipay+ QR logo or your Touch ‘n Go eWallet Visa card to make payment. Just ensure you have sufficient eWallet balance for the amount to be conveniently deducted from your TNG eWallet balance.

Other methods: You can also get the Yikatong card, a reloadable travel card that is also usable on buses and taxis. This card can be purchased and reloaded at any authorised card issuing/top-up outlets which can be found at subway stations, bus stations, long-distance bus stations, and Yikatong business halls. If you want an easier alternative, you can also download the Yikatong app on your phone and use this card on your phone instead.

Tips for taking the metro in Beijing

Avoid weekday peak hours, which are 7–9am and 5–7pm as the metro will be crowded by the locals commuting to and from work.
Use metro apps like MetroMan or Explore Beijing for easy navigation. Both these apps allows the user to access accurate Metro maps even while offline, allowing for easy navigation and route planning.
The subway typically runs from 5am to 11pm with some stations open until midnight. Always check your line or station’s schedule using the metro apps so you can plan your itinerary ahead.

Taxis: Door-to-door convenience

Taxis are everywhere in Beijing—just hail one with a green light or use ride-hailing apps like DiDi.

How to get a taxi in Beijing

Taxi stands: You can easily hop into one at taxi stands, which can be found in all major establishments like malls and airports. If you’re at a location without any taxi stands, just hail any one you see on the streets if you see the green light on the taxi dashboard.

Ride-hailing apps: Smartphone apps like DiDi can help you get a taxi in Beijing. Just download it, sign up, book a ride or schedule it for later, and communicate and get updates from your driver. . 

How much does a taxi cost in Beijing?

All taxi cabs in Beijing use a meter. For the first 3 kilometers, the flat rate is CNY 13 and increases to CNY 2.30 for every kilometer taken.  If it’s a long-distance ride, usually 15 km or longer, there will be a CNY 3.50 surcharge, and the same applies for waiting times. Beijing taxis charge differently at night. Night rate starts at 11 p.m., increasing to CNY 3 for every additional kilometer.

How to pay for a taxi in Beijing:

Cash or credit card so your Touch ‘n Go eWallet Visa Card can be used here.
Scan Alipay+ QR with your TNG eWallet for a smooth, cashless ride. TNG eWallet will even show you how much you were charged for your ride in Malaysian Ringgit, allowing for easy tracking of your spending.
The Yikatong card is also accepted by taxis in Beijing.

Tips for taking the taxi in Beijing:

Use a map or a translator. Some drivers don’t understand foreign languages, so it’s always better to show your driver your destination in Chinese characters.
Always check that the taxi is using the meter. If the driver refuses, find another taxi.
Keep your receipt for lost items or fare disputes in case you think your taxi driver overcharged you.

Book tours on KKDay for a seamless adventure

During your trip to Beijing, don’t forget to visit some of Beijing’s best attractions. Use KKDay to book your tickets to Beijing’s most popular attractions such as:

Pay smarter with TNG eWallet overseas QR

Whether you're shopping, dining, or grabbing a drink, TNG eWallet lets you pay seamlessly across Beijing. Just scan the Alipay+ QR code or show your QR code to pay at participating merchants.

Use your TNG eWallet at popular stores like KKV, PopMart, Anta, and Bestore, or grab a drink at well-known chains like Luckin Coffee, Chagee, and Chapanda.

Plus, enjoy added value with A+ Rewards, which allows you to earn vouchers on overseas transactions and help you save while you explore the world.

Travel smart and pay effortlessly with TNG eWallet in China.