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How to Take the Metro in China
China's metro systems are clean, affordable and practical for tourists, but the first ride can feel confusing. Learn ticket options, QR codes, security checks, transfers and exit numbers before you go underground.
Video tutorial
How to take the metro in China video guide
Watch this 56-second China metro walkthrough covering station entrances, security, tickets, transport QR codes, platform direction, transfers and exit numbers.
Metro workflow reviewed August 2026. Shanghai Metro photographs are used under CC BY-SA 4.0; ticketing and transport-code procedures can vary by city.
Platform photo: SCJiangGate photo: ShwangtianyuanExit photo: Another BelieverLicense: CC BY-SA 4.0
Read the video transcript
Taking the metro in China is easy when you follow six steps. First, confirm the station name, line color and nearest entrance on your map. Save a screenshot before going underground.
At the entrance, put your bag through the security scanner. Then buy a single ticket or open the city's transport QR code. Keep a ticket as backup if mobile data or payment fails.
Before choosing a platform, check the direction carefully. Follow the final station name shown on the line signs.
For a transfer, follow the next line number and color. Some transfers involve a long walk, so allow extra time.
On the train, watch the station display and listen for your stop.
Before leaving, check the correct exit number on your map. The wrong exit can place you across a large road or building complex.
Remember the order: station, security, ticket, direction, transfer and exit.
Keep your phone charged and carry a small payment backup. Find the complete China metro checklist on ChinaEasy.
Continue with the guide
Turn the 56-second overview into a confident first metro ride
First metro ride
Follow the same four-step flow in most Chinese cities
Route planning, security, entry and the correct exit matter more than memorizing station names.
Plan the route
Check the line number, direction, transfer station and destination exit.
Pass security
Put bags through the scanner and keep drinks ready for inspection.
Enter the gate
Use a ticket, transport QR code or supported payment method.
Save the exit
Large stations have many exits, so record the correct number before arrival.
Step-by-step
What to do first
Find the correct station
Use maps to confirm the station name, line color and entrance nearest to you.
Pass security
Place bags through the scanner and walk through the security gate. This is normal in many Chinese metro systems.
Choose ticket or QR code
Buy a single ticket at a machine, use a transport QR code, or follow local city payment options.
Check direction
Look for the final station name on the line. This tells you which platform direction to take.
Transfer carefully
Follow line color and number signs. Some transfers require long walks inside the station.
Use the right exit
Check exit numbers before leaving the station. A wrong exit can put you on the other side of a large road or building complex.
Real travel scenario
Real scenario: taking metro from hotel to a landmark
- Scenario step 1Open maps and choose metro route.
- Scenario step 2Screenshot the station names and transfer line.
- Scenario step 3Enter station and pass security.
- Scenario step 4Use QR code or buy ticket.
- Scenario step 5Follow final-station direction and exit number.
Troubleshooting
Common problems and quick fixes
Ticket machine has no English
Look for language button, use translation camera, or ask staff at the service counter.
QR code does not open
Check mobile data, app login and city transport setting. Use a single ticket as backup.
Wrong direction
Get off at the next station and cross to the other platform if needed. Do not panic.
Wrong exit
Open maps above ground and walk to the correct entrance or destination.
Checklist
Before you rely on this in China
FAQ
Questions foreign visitors usually ask
Is China metro foreigner-friendly?
Major cities are generally manageable with English signs, maps and translation apps.
Can I use Alipay for metro?
Many cities support payment or transport codes through Alipay or related mini programs, but setup varies by city.
Do I need to go through security every time?
In many metro systems, yes. Bag scans are common and usually quick.