China's metro systems are cheap, clean, and fast. Here's how to ride them without Chinese.
In most cities, you can pay by scanning a QR code at the gate. Alipay and WeChat Pay both have built-in metro codes — just switch the city.
Ticket machines have an English option. Select your destination, pay, and tap the token at the gate.
All metro stations have a security check — put bags through the scanner.
Follow the colored line signs and English station names. Transfer by walking to the other platform without leaving the station.
Yes. Alipay's metro QR code works in most Chinese cities.
Most stations have English signs and ticket machines with an English option.
Usually 2-8 RMB per ride, depending on distance.