Getting around and finding your way
Everything worth preparing and knowing for a trip to China: documents, internet and payments, along with practical advice for transport, food and day-to-day travel.
Railway stations and airports in China can be enormous, extremely well organised, and still take time. There is security screening, gates, walking between zones, and sometimes moving between floors or halls. On trains the boarding gates usually open only ten to fifteen minutes before departure, but given the size of the stations and the screening process it is worth arriving about 45 minutes ahead rather than counting on a last-minute entry.
Save place names in two forms: English and Chinese. Drivers, ticket desks and hotels won't always recognise an English transliteration, and in some places the Chinese name is simply the easiest way to get to the right destination.
For taxis and ride-hailing, DiDi (滴滴出行) is the most common and convenient option in China. You can also reach the service through Alipay under its transport or ride-hailing services. Set up a payment method in advance, and check the pickup point carefully before confirming — railway stations, airports and large shopping centres can have several pickup zones a considerable distance apart.
For navigation inside China, use Amap Global / 高德地图, which handles local addresses, walking routes and public transport well. If you use an iPhone, Apple Maps is also a good alternative: its map service in China uses AutoNavi/Amap data and supports navigation and public-transport directions. In either app, search using the Chinese place name or address when there is any doubt.
The metro is easy to navigate by line numbers, colours and exits. Before you get off the train, check which exit is closest to your destination — the wrong exit in a large station can add ten minutes of walking and a lot of unnecessary confusion.
In summary
- Check the exact station name in advance, especially in cities with several railway stations.
- For intercity trains, aim to arrive around 45 minutes before departure.
- Set up DiDi through Alipay or the local service, including a payment method, before you need a ride.
- Use Amap for navigation; iPhone users can also use Apple Maps.
- Photograph or note the metro exit number before you arrive.
- Leave time for security, walking inside the station and collecting tickets when needed.