China flagTransportation & Infrastructure Guide

Public transit, airports, and getting around in China

China boasts the world's largest transportation network, featuring over 45,000 km of high-speed rail, 738 airports including 313 major ones, and extensive expressways. Key strengths include world-leading HSR connectivity and rapid infrastructure expansion, while challenges involve urban congestion and rural-urban disparities. Residents and visitors enjoy affordable, efficient mobility via metro, buses, trains, rideshares, and flights, driving on the right side.
Public Transport
Good
Road Infrastructure
Good
Public Transport
8.7/10

World-class high-speed rail network exceeding 45,000 km connects major cities efficiently. Extensive metro systems in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou with high frequency and reliability. Bus networks cover urban and suburban areas; good intermodal integration via apps like Alipay. Limited in rural areas but expanding.

Road Infrastructure
7.8/10

Extensive expressway network over 160,000 km, well-maintained in urban and intercity areas. Ongoing upgrades for smart traffic management. Urban roads congested but improving with intelligent systems. Good safety features; rural roads adequate but variable maintenance.

Internet Speed
9.2/10

Exceptional broadband speeds driven by widespread fiber deployment. Urban areas exceed gigabit capabilities; rural gap narrowing rapidly via state investments.

Avg: 520+ Mbps • Over 90% urban coverage, expanding to 70% nationwide by 2026; leading global fiber infrastructure

Airport Connectivity
9.1/10

738 airports with 313 major hubs provide unmatched domestic coverage; strong international links via key airports. Beijing PEK/PKX, Shanghai PVG major global hubs with extensive routes.

Hubs: Beijing Capital (PEK), Beijing Daxing (PKX), Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), Chengdu Shuangliu (CTU), Shenzhen Bao'an (SZX)

Transportation Costs

Metro Pass
¥180-300/month (major cities)
Bus Trip
¥2 per ride
Taxi
¥10-14 start + ¥2.3-3/km
High-speed Train
¥500-600 Beijing-Shanghai (2nd class)

Mobile Network

5G Coverage: Nationwide coverage by China Mobile, China Telecom, China Unicom; over 3 million base stations by 2026
4G Coverage: 99%+ nationwide, full rural penetration

Top-tier reliability with leading 5G speeds; urban areas exceed 1Gbps download. Strong signal even in remote regions due to massive carrier investments.

Driving License

IDP requiredConversion needed

Foreign licenses valid up to 90 days with IDP (English/Chinese translation). Long-term residents must convert to Chinese license via exam after 90 days. Drive on right side.