Quick Answer

Taking the subway in China is usually one of the easiest ways to move around large cities. The basic workflow is: find the right line and direction, pay with a city transport QR code, bank card, transport card or single ticket, scan or tap into the gate, follow transfer signs, and scan or tap out at your destination. Shanghai’s official English metro guidance explains that fares are distance-based and lists payment options including international bank cards, Alipay/WeChat-linked QR services, single tickets and public transport cards.

City details vary, so treat this as a general China metro workflow and check local signs.

Before You Enter the Station

  1. Search the route in Amap or a local map app.
  2. Check the line number and final direction station.
  3. Note the transfer station.
  4. Note the exit number near your destination.
  5. Keep your payment method ready.

The exit number matters. In large stations, the wrong exit can put you on the opposite side of a road, mall or railway complex.

Payment Options

Transport QR code

Many cities support transport QR codes inside Alipay, WeChat or local transit apps. Open the correct city and mode before reaching the gate. Some city transport codes require identity verification or card setup.

Single ticket

Ticket machines are useful if QR setup fails. Choose destination station, pay and keep the ticket until exit.

Public transport card

Some cities sell physical stored-value cards. They are useful for longer stays but may be unnecessary for a short trip.

Bank card tap-to-ride

Some systems support international card tap-to-ride or card purchase through station POS machines, but this varies by city and station.

Step-by-Step: Ride the Metro

  1. Enter the station through security.
  2. Buy a ticket or open your QR code.
  3. Scan or tap at the gate.
  4. Follow signs for your line and direction.
  5. Stand on the correct platform side.
  6. Transfer if needed.
  7. Check the destination exit before leaving the platform.
  8. Scan or tap out at the exit gate.

Common Problems

QR code does not work

Check that you selected the right city and transport mode. Refresh the QR code and make sure your payment method is active. If it still fails, buy a single ticket.

You entered the wrong direction

Get off at the next station and cross to the opposite direction if the station layout allows it.

The transfer is long

Some Chinese metro transfers require a long walk. If you have luggage, choose fewer transfers even if the route is slightly slower.

You cannot find the exit

Use station signs and Amap. Search for the destination inside the station and check the recommended exit.

Luggage Tips

Avoid rush hour if carrying suitcases. Use elevators where possible. At major railway stations and airports, give yourself extra time because security, walking distance and crowding can slow you down.

Sources Checked

Last source check: 2026-05-27

  • How to take metro in Shanghai — Shanghai Municipal Government

URL: https://english.shanghai.gov.cn/en-Transportation/20231214/c727f5e15eff4b8c9340651dd95f3f7c.html

Supports: Shanghai metro fare basics and payment options including international bank cards, Metro Daduhui, Alipay/WeChat Pay, single tickets and transport cards.

  • A guide to using AMap in English — Shanghai Municipal Government

URL: https://english.shanghai.gov.cn/en-UsefulApps/20241213/59a549d4bdf1440c8e86251d5ac7d5a9.html

Supports: AMap/Gaode Map provides English support for overseas users and route planning for driving, public transit, walking and biking.

  • Payment service guide for overseas visitors to China — The State Council, PRC

URL: https://english.www.gov.cn/news/202404/11/content_WS6617c858c6d0868f4e8e5f4d.html

Supports: Overseas visitors can use mobile payments, bank cards and cash; Alipay and WeChat Pay can link international cards including Visa and Mastercard; mobile payment limits and cash/card guidance are described.

Disclaimer

App interfaces, payment rules, station practices, hotel policies and local procedures may change. Treat this guide as a source-checked practical guide, then verify important details with the official service, your hotel, transport staff or your card issuer before relying on it in an urgent situation.