Tips for Traveling in Chinese Buses
How to Use the Chinese Public Transportation Systems
Nov 10, 2009
Most Chinese people do not own a private car, so the population depends on the extensive public transportation system. Thanks to the Olympic Games, most tourist locations now have street signs, subway stations, and route information posted in both Chinese and English which makes getting around much easier for independent travelers.
In the larger cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu, Chinese travel agents offer many discounted coach tours that enable tourists to see a variety of the most popular sights and save money, if they shop carefully. Unfortunately not all agents are reputable, so before agreeing to anything, check out the company.
The Most Common Mode of Getting Around – In China, Buses Go Into the Neighborhoods
Chinese Buses are easy to take and the fares are inexpensive, ranging from one to two yuan. Change is not given on buses so when utilizing city bus services, carry ample one yuan notes or coins. Unlike parts of Europe, buses do not stop to pick up or let off passengers between marked stops.
Rural buses will provide change because fares vary according to the distance traveled. Be prepared to be crammed in, possibly sitting next to live animals, sitting on a makeshift wooden bench or even standing because Chinese country buses transport everything that the riders need to take with them.
Except in the largest cities, timetables for buses are not always accurate, so do not rely on long distance or express buses to leave on time. If there are not enough passengers the driver may cancel the trip, postpone it or even drive around the city looking for more riders. Bus stops for buses that service outlying areas near cities are frequently unmarked. Such transport networks are nearly impossible to locate without the aid of a local.
Convenience and Safety Issues for Travelers Who are not with a Tour Group
Many people consider traveling without having to fumble for small change for a fare to be a convenience. In Beijing, a "Yikatong" (one card pass) smart card is available at ticket booths. It allows the passenger to travel on buses and the subway by deducting the fare from a prepaid amount. When necessary, additional funds can be added to the card. Other cities also offer smart card prepaid passes that are good for riding any of the local buses.
When exiting a bus, always look both ways before taking the final step out. Bicyclists often cut between the curb and the bus and may be traveling in either direction.
Beware! When traveling on public transportation pickpockets will gladly relieve any careless person of excess goods or money. Prepaid passes, cameras and cell phones are favorite targets.
As a safety precaution, visitors should always carry a card from the hotel or the address of the place they are staying written in Chinese. If lost, the easiest thing to do is simply show the card to a taxi driver.
Knowing Chinese Traveling Etiquette is Important
The elderly, pregnant women, and people with small children or many packages are given preferential treatment at all times. Standing so they may sit will be appreciated by the Chinese people who are watching. Someone is always watching!
Although the government is trying to educate the population, Chinese people do not usually utilize queues or lines. At a stop, everyone usually crowds to the bus door. Unlike Westerners with a buffer zone around them, the Chinese have no hesitation about pushing and shoving to get on a bus. Be especially mindful that in such close quarters, with unintentional jostling rampant, pickpockets have many advantages.
Although many Chinese people speak a little bit of English, it may be difficult to get anyone to talk because they fear making a mistake. When needing help it is often easier to ask another foreigner.
Like it or not, traveling foreigners are unofficial ambassadors of their home country. Learning to travel like the locals is a great way to learn more about China, build self-confidence and have fun. Don’t be afraid to smile at strangers, or talk to young children.
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