The Beijing Subway is usually the fastest way to move between central sights, railway stations and many commercial areas. International visitors can buy a single ticket, use a Beijing Pass, activate a metro QR code or—at supported gates—tap an eligible overseas-issued Visa or Mastercard.
Choose the simplest payment method
For one or two journeys, an English-language ticket machine or staffed counter is straightforward. Frequent riders can consider a Beijing Pass or an Alipay transport code. Official Beijing guidance also describes tap-to-ride access across the metro network for supported contactless bank cards, but travelers should keep a second payment option because card type and issuer settings still matter.
- Single-journey ticket from a machine
- Ticket from a staffed service counter
- Beijing Pass designed for international visitors
- Alipay metro QR code
- Supported contactless Visa, Mastercard or UnionPay card
Plan by station, not only by attraction
Save the exact station name, line number and exit before leaving reliable internet. Large attractions may sit between stations, and choosing the correct exit can remove a long street-level walk. Interchange stations can also require substantial walking inside the paid area.
Airport and railway station connections
Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport use different airport rail links. Beijing also has several major railway stations, including Beijing, Beijing West, Beijing South and Beijing North. Match the full station or airport name on the booking before choosing a route; they are not interchangeable.
At the security check and gate
Metro passengers pass a security check before the concourse. Keep bags organized, follow staff instructions and allow extra time during commuter peaks and around major events. Use the same card, ticket or QR method to enter and exit; switching payment media can create an incomplete journey record.
Transfers, last trains and service changes
Do not rely on one universal closing time. Last-train times vary by line, direction and station, and temporary changes can occur. Check the current operator information or station display on the day, especially for an evening airport or railway connection.
Useful fallback plan
Carry the Chinese station name and destination address, a modest amount of RMB and another working payment method. If a gate rejects a foreign card or QR code, use the staffed service counter rather than repeatedly tapping and risking multiple pending authorizations.
Official sources
Sources checked 14 August 2026. Reconfirm time-sensitive details before departure.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners tap a bank card on the Beijing Subway?
Official Beijing guidance says supported overseas-issued Visa and Mastercard contactless cards can use tap-to-ride gates, alongside eligible UnionPay cards. Card and issuer compatibility can still vary, so carry a backup.
Can I buy a Beijing subway ticket with cash?
Official guidance lists cash as an option at ticket machines or staffed counters, although the exact machine and denominations accepted can vary.
Does the Beijing Subway go to both airports?
The network connects to Capital Airport and Daxing Airport through different airport lines. Confirm the airport code and terminal before traveling.
Should I buy a transport card for Beijing?
A single ticket can be easiest for occasional rides. A Beijing Pass or transport QR code may be more convenient for repeated journeys, depending on your phone and payment setup.