📝 Options
✅ Option 1: Beijing Pass for Tourists (Available at Airports)
From BEIJING PASS The People’s Government of Beijing Municipality Official Website:
BEIJING PASS is a multi-purpose travel card issued by Beijing for overseas visitors coming to China. This rechargeable card is distributed through sales, and supports usage in the transportation field in Beijing as well as in designated (authorized) commercial and cultural tourism fields. You can purchase it at the BEIJING PASS self-service machines at the “Beijing Service” airport service counter. Staff at the ”Beijing Service” airport service counter will provide you with related consultation services on-site.
Image From The People’s Government of Beijing Municipality Official Website
Official Purchase Guide
Quick Summary
- This is a prepaid transportation card designed for international tourists.
- You can get it at the Beijing Capital or Daxing Airport upon arrival.
- It can be used on subways and buses across the city.
- No deposit is required, but you need to add money before using it.
- Look for signs that say “Beijing Pass” or ask at the airport info desk.
✅ Option 2: Yikatong Transportation Card (Standard Metro Card)
- This is a reusable smart card for public transport.
- You can buy it at any metro station service counter (not the vending machines).
- Bring your passport, pay ¥20 deposit + at least ¥20 balance to start.
- You can recharge it at station machines or counters (cash, WeChat, Alipay).
- It works for metro, buses, airport express, and some taxis or convenience stores.
- When you’re done, return it to get your deposit and unused balance back.
✅ Option 3: Mobile Payment (QR Code or NFC)
- You can ride the metro using your phone with Alipay or WeChat Pay.
- Alipay:
- Open the app → Tap “Transport” or search “Metro” → Get a QR code for Beijing.
- You can bind international credit cards (Visa/MasterCard).
- WeChat Pay:
- Similar process. You need to activate the wallet and link a payment method.
- NFC options (like Apple Wallet or “Beijing Yikatong” app) work if you have a Chinese phone number and bank card.
- Not always suitable for short-term tourists.
✅ Option 4: Single-Journey Tickets
- You can always buy paper tickets from ticket machines at metro stations.
- Follow the on-screen map to select your destination.
- Machines support cash, Alipay, WeChat Pay, and sometimes international cards.
🔁 Comparison
| Option | Best for | Deposit Needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beijing Pass (Tourist Card) | First-time visitors | No | Only available at airports |
| Yikatong Card | Longer stays | Yes (¥20) | Reusable, refundable, convenient |
| Mobile Payment (Alipay, Wechat Pay, NFC) | Tech-savvy travelers | No | Requires phone setup & linked payment |
| Single Tickets | Short trips | No | Easy but less convenient for transfers |
📌 Tips for Foreign Visitors
- If you arrive at the airport, get the Beijing Pass right away – it’s easy and made for tourists.
- For longer stays, consider the Yikatong card – it’s accepted almost everywhere and saves time.
- If you already use Alipay or WeChat Pay, set up the QR code metro access in advance.
- Return your Yikatong card at the end of your trip to get your deposit and unused money back.
