In this guide, we’ll explore the types of public transport cards available, how to purchase and top them up, and tips for making the most of your travel experience in China.
Navigating public transportation in China is made easier with public transport cards. These cards offer convenience, cost savings, and ease of use for both locals and expats.
Types of Public Transport Cards
China’s major cities each have their own public transport cards, which can be used across various modes of transportation including buses, subways, and even taxis in some cases.
Here are some of the most popular ones.
Beijing Yikatong Card (北京市政交通一卡通)
| Usage | Additional Benefits |
| Valid for buses, subways, the Airport Express Train, S2 trains, taxis, and public bicycles in Beijing. | Can be used for payments at parking lots, gas stations, supermarkets, convenience stores, and more. |
Shanghai Public Transportation Card (上海公共交通卡)
| Usage | Additional Benefits |
| Can be used on buses, metros, ferries, and even some taxis in Shanghai. | Offers discounts on fares and can be used for small purchases at select stores. |
Guangzhou Yang Cheng Tong Card (羊城通)
| Usage | Additional Benefits |
| Accepted on buses, subways, ferries, and taxis in Guangzhou. | Can be used for payments at various retail outlets and for public services. |
Shenzhen Tong Card (深圳通)
| Usage | Additional Benefits |
| Usable on buses, subways, and taxis in Shenzhen | Offers fare discounts and can be used for small purchases. |
How to Purchase a Public Transport Card
Buying a public transport card in China is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Locate a Sales Point
- Public transport cards can be purchased at subway stations, bus stations, and authorized retail outlets such as convenience stores and supermarkets.
- Pay the Deposit
- Most cards require a small deposit, usually around 20 yuan, which is refundable when you return the card.
- Initial Top-Up
- You will need to load an initial amount onto the card. The minimum top-up amount is typically 20 yuan.
- Get Your Card
- After paying the deposit and initial top-up, you will receive your card, which is ready to use immediately.
How to Top Up Your Card
Topping up your public transport card is easy and can be done in several ways:
- Manual Top-Up
- Visit any subway station, bus station, or authorized retail outlet to add funds to your card.
- Self-Service Machines
- Use self-service machines available at subway stations and some bus stops. These machines usually accept cash and sometimes mobile payments.
- Mobile Apps
- Many cities offer mobile apps that allow you to top up your card using your smartphone. For example, the Beijing Yikatong app supports NFC-enabled top-ups.
- Online Top-Up
- Some cities provide online top-up services through their official websites or apps.
Using Your Public Transport Card
Using your public transport card is simple and convenient:
- Buses
- Swipe your card at the card reader when boarding the bus. In some cities, you may need to swipe again when alighting.
- Subways
- Swipe your card at the entry and exit gates of subway stations. The fare will be automatically deducted based on the distance traveled.
- Taxis
- In some cities, you can use your card to pay for taxi rides. Simply swipe your card on the card reader in the taxi.
- Other Services
- Depending on the city, you can use your card for public bicycles, parking fees, and small purchases at select stores.
Tips for Expats
- Keep Your Card Topped Up
- Always ensure your card has enough balance to avoid inconvenience. Most cities allow overdrafts, but it’s best to keep your card topped up.
- Use Mobile Apps
- Download the relevant mobile app for your city’s transport card. These apps offer features like balance checks, top-ups, and route planning.
- Take Advantage of Discounts
- Many cities offer fare discounts for using public transport cards. For example, Beijing offers a 50% discount on bus fares after the first 100 yuan spent in a month.
- Return Your Card
- If you’re leaving the city or no longer need the card, return it to get your deposit back.
Conclusion
Public transport cards are an indispensable tool for navigating China’s extensive public transportation network.
They offer convenience, cost savings, and ease of use, making them a must-have for both locals and expats.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to purchase, top up, and use your public transport card efficiently, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free travel experience in China.