Travel in China

Buy an airplane ticket. There are dozens of domestic airlines that fly between hundreds of Chinese destinations. This mode of transportation is best when you need to go a long distance in as little time as possible. Purchase a ticket directly from the airline. Example airlines include China Southwest Airlines via their site (see Resources) or by phone at 011 (+86) 028 666 8080; Air China via their site (see Resources) or via telephone at 011 (+86) 010 6601 7755, and China Southern Airlines online (see Resources) or by calling 011 (+86) 020 8668 2000. When calling these numbers from North America, you must substitute the standard dialing prefix of "00" for "011." On most domestic airlines, you can bring up to 44 lbs. of luggage as well as a carry-on bag. Most flights include a snack or meal, though some airlines are still operated with older planes from the 1930s.

Hop onto a train. Trains are an economical way to get between major cities, see the local countryside and meet Chinese residents and other tourists. Tickets can be purchased directly at the station. You will find direct routes between most urban centers, including Shanghai, Tianjin and Shenyang. Many cities also have their own local metro service, such as the Shanghai metro system that connects major attractions and destinations, such as the Pudon airport, to other areas of the city.

Ride a boat. You may buy your boat fare at boat and ferry terminals on the day you wish to travel. Ferry service runs regularly between mainland China and offshore islands such as Hong Kong, as well as between coastal cities. You will also find ferries plying major rivers such as the Yangzi and the Li, allowing travelers to bypass the roads and highways to reach cities upstream or downstream.

Get a bicycle. This method of travel is best when staying within cities such as Beijing, as the streets are crowded and a bicycle gives you the flexibility required to navigate quickly to your destination. You can hire a bike from storefronts in most downtown districts. In most areas, bicycles can be rented for five yuan an hour or up to 60 yuan per day. You may be asked to place a deposit of several hundred yuan before taking the bike.