Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
be a convenient time to pick up a travel card, also known as an Yikatong card, which you
can purchase for RMB20 from one of the tellers in the subway station, with no ID or form
filling required. This will help you swipe your way on and off Beijing's public transport,
including the Airport Express. It's recommended to add RMB50-100 of credit to the card,
and any remaining balance can be refunded when you return it.
Leaving the airport by road is less predictable than the Airport Express. The airport is
about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) from the city center. On a good run you might get to Lido
within 20 minutes, Guomao within 30 minutes, or Wangfujing within 45 minutes. Land
at the wrong time of day and these times could triple. For these locations, expect to pay
RMB80-120, including road tolls. More information for all transport options can be found
at
http://en.bcia.com.cn
; click on Traffic.
As a final pointer, it will help to have your first destination written down in Chinese
characters and ready to hand to the driver when you get in the car. Having it written in Piny-
in probably won't be helpful, and English almost certainly won't be. It's also unnecessary
to tip your driver as tipping is not a custom in Beijing, and some drivers may even refuse to
accept it if you try.
RENT A BIKE
Why not rent a bicycle to make your visit a little more interesting? Whether you're
here for a few days or a long-term stretch, you can rent one of the thousands of public
bicycles around the city. Simply swipe your card at a bike station, ride wherever you
want, and then return the bike to any other bike station in the city. The first hour is
free, then it's just RMB1 for every hour thereafter up to a maximum of RMB10 per
day. You can keep the same bike for a maximum of three days at any one time.
Before you begin, you'll first need to go to one of the registration points with your
passport and a travel card (Yikatong). Long-term residents will also need to show
their temporary residence permit. Short-termers then pay a RMB400 deposit, while
long-termers pay a RMB200 deposit. You'll also need to sign a contract and have at
least RMB30 credit on your card. After you've returned the bike your deposit will be
returned. Riders must be aged 18-65 and at least 130 centimeters (4'3”) tall.
REGISTRATION POINTS
• Tiantan Dongmen subway station (Line 5), exit A2
