How to Take the Beijing Metro? Route Maps and Tickets Guide
The Beijing metro is a public transit favorite for both travelers and locals. For Beijing residents, it's an indispensable part of daily life. At the moment, the network has 29 lines and over 522 stations, and it's still expanding!
In this guide, you'll get info about the Beijing metro system, including route maps, how to buy tickets, and nearby attractions. Ready to explore Beijing with us? Let's go!
See all flights
Beijing Metro Overview
Visiting Beijing for the first time and finding this big city a bit unfamiliar? Don’t worry—let me give you a quick intro! The Beijing metro is the urban rail transit system of China’s capital.
It opened in 1971, making Beijing the first city in China to have a metro—eight years earlier than Hong Kong’s Kwun Tong Line, which began service in 1979!
Photo Source: Baidu
Beijing Metro Route Map
As of 2025, it has 29 operating lines, 879 kilometers of track, and 522 stations, with plans to grow to 30 lines totaling 1,177 kilometers.
Credit: from Travel China Guide, Beijing Metro Route Map
How to Buy Beijing Metro Tickets?
Taking the subway in Beijing? Let the Trip.com team help you easily knock out your ticket-buying hassles!
Buy tickets with a physical card
- Beijing Transit Card: Looking for a tap-and-go Beijing “Octopus” card? Head to the subway station ticket window / self-service ticket machine to buy a Beijing Transit Card! Reload it and you can tap in and out like a Beijing local—and you can also pick one up at supermarkets and convenience stores!
- One-way ticket: Only planning one ride? Head to a ticket vending machine or the ticket window to buy a one-way ticket—choose your destination, pay, and it’s that simple! Pro tip: the vending machines accept cash and QR code payments, super convenient!
Buy Tickets on Your Phone
QR code rides: With your phone in hand, you’re pretty much set for Beijing. Open Alipay, WeChat, or the Yitongxing app to get your subway QR code, then scan it at the turnstile as you enter—beep! Easy entry!
Buy Tickets with Cash
If cash is your thing, no problem—you can also buy tickets with cash at the ticket vending machines or the ticket window.
Photo Source: Beijing News Radio
How much are Beijing metro fares?
The Beijing Subway (excluding the Airport Express) uses a distance-based fare system, starting at 3 yuan and increasing with distance, divided into several fare tiers. For trips over 32 km, each additional 1 yuan covers another 20 km, and there’s no upper limit to the fare. You can stay within the paid area for up to 4 hours per trip.
- Starting fare: 3 yuan, good for trips up to 6 kilometers.
- Between 6 km and 12 km, the fare is HK$4.
- Between 12 and 22 kilometers, the fare is 5 dollars.
- For distances between 22 km and 32 km, the fare is 6 yuan.
- For any portion beyond 32 kilometers, the fare increases by 1 yuan for every additional 20 kilometers.
See all attractions
718086 booked
How to Make the Most of Beijing Metro Lines?
Beijing Metro Line 1
The sights along the route are truly spectacular! Tiananmen Square, the Palace Museum (the Forbidden City), Wangfujing, and the National Centre for the Performing Arts—what a dazzling, dreamlike travel route!
Tiananmen Square is the largest city square in the world; standing there, you feel as tiny as a little ant! And the Forbidden City is the pinnacle of ancient Chinese imperial architecture—step inside and it’s like time travel, as if a palace drama is about to begin!
Reviews of Top Things to Do around Beijing Metro Line 1
Tiananmen Square
4.8/5
765 reviewsAttending a village temple fair, a stage is set up in the street for traditional opera performances, while various food stalls line the area below—selling sugar figurines, fried meatballs, and dough figurines—creating a lively and bustling atmosphere that's packed with people. Buying a freshly fried rice cake, dipping it in brown sugar, and enjoying its warm, sweet, and soft texture, while squeezing into the crowd to listen to a few lines of opera—even if you don't understand the tune—feels lively and welcoming, full of the warmth and life of everyday life, and your heart feels a sense of joy and celebration.
The Palace Museum
4.8/5
48758 reviewsWe had a great time walking around. It lasted about half a day, but we didn't have time to see everything. Entry was with a passport, so there were no problems.
National Center for the Performing Arts
4.7/5
564 reviewsНе удалось купить билет на представление, поэтому пошла просто погулять по зданию. Очень понравилось - потрясающая архитектура, можно зайти в зал, посмотреть выставки, есть ресторан и кафе (дорогие). Прекрасная возможность провести полдня, сделать красивые фото.
Beijing Metro Line 2
Passing by Yonghe Temple, the Drum Tower, Shichahai, and Beihai Park, this route is a quintessential tour of Beijing’s culture!
Yonghe Temple is the city’s largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery, steeped in solemnity and mystery. The Drum Tower and Shichahai are windows into old Beijing’s hutong life—want to soak up some authentic, everyday street vibes? This is the place to be!
Photo Source: Baidu
Reviews of Things to Do around Beijing Metro Line 2
Lama Temple
4.7/5
908 reviewsThe first location in Beijing: Yonghegong Temple (Lama Temple)
• Name (Chinese): Yonghegong Temple
• Address (Chinese): 28 Yonghegong Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing
• Address (English): No. 12, Yonghegong Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Tickets sold until 4:30 PM, admission until 4:30 PM). This long and beautiful park is a must-see. I really liked the temple inside; the area was permeated with the scent of incense, and it was very interesting to appreciate the culture. The park closes promptly at 5:00 PM, so keep that in mind. I highly recommend it!
Beihai Park
4.7/5
1769 reviewsIt's a great park; if you go early, there aren't many people. You can buy tickets at the entrance, either just for the entrance or as a package that includes a visit to the temple. Be sure to go up there; the view is amazing.
Beijing Metro Line 4
Line 4 is also a treasure hunt through history and culture! Along the route, you’ll discover two treasures—the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan) and the Summer Palace—as well as major academic landmarks like Peking University and Tsinghua University.
Want to feel the grandeur of imperial gardens? The Summer Palace is waiting for you to check it off your list! Ready to time-travel through history’s dramatic twists? The Old Summer Palace won’t let you down.
Credit: from ResearchGate, Beijing Metro Line 4 Route Map
Reviews of Top Things to Do around Beijing Metro Line 4
Yuanmingyuan Park
4.7/5
2681 reviewsThe Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan) preserves the ruins of its past, a testament to foreign invasion. It's easy to imagine its former splendor and grandeur. The tour guide explained that the reason it's no longer restored is to ensure future generations remember the painful lessons of history—a truly regrettable situation.
Summer Palace
4.7/5
7689 reviewsXiucai said that Guide Li was truly excellent. He not only took us to the tourist attractions but also shared many historical stories, cultural backgrounds, and interesting tidbits of knowledge. His explanations were clear and engaging. He also took good care of the group members' needs throughout the trip, ensuring a smooth itinerary and making us have a wonderful time. Highly recommended!
Beijing Zoo
4.5/5
2118 reviewsThe zoo is a one-time experience, everything is scattered, the animals are arranged in an odd way. But the pandas are superb. Lots of vegetation, cool. That's a plus.
Beijing Metro Line 5
Strolling through Temple of Heaven Park and Temple of Earth Park feels like slipping between history and stunning scenery.
The Temple of Heaven is China’s largest complex of ancient sacrificial architecture—truly awe-inspiring. And the Temple of Earth? It’s home to Beijing’s largest shrine dedicated to civil officials, and it’s absolutely worth exploring. So next time you’re riding Line 5, why not plan a little cultural adventure?
Reviews of Top Things to Do around Beijing Metro Line 5
Temple of Heaven
4.7/5
4942 reviewsI think the Temple of Heaven is the most beautiful temple in all of Beijing; it looks like a painting. You can walk around it in a few hours.
Ditan Park
4.8/5
251 reviewsThe entrance fee is very cheap, only 2 yuan. The flowers, plants, and trees in the park are all very well cared for.
If you want to visit Ditan Park, you can buy a separate ticket at the park entrance.
It will probably be even more beautiful in a few days if you want to enjoy the autumn scenery.
Beijing Subway Line 6
Along Line 6, you’ll find Nanluoguxiang and Prince Kung’s Mansion!
Nanluoguxiang is one of Beijing’s oldest neighborhoods—strolling around feels like stepping into a time tunnel to old Beijing, and it’s super fun! Prince Kung’s Mansion is a Qing dynasty princely residence, impossibly grand—want to experience the lavish lifestyle of a royal from centuries past?
Reviews of Top Things to Do around Beijing Metro Line 6
Nanluogu Xiang
4.6/5
330 reviewsIt's very close to the Nanluguoxiang metro exit. Pretty far if you walk from Beixinqiao (even though it looks not too far on the map LOL). The alley is not too long and has many interesting stores. Modern and old Beijing styles mixed well there. Western bakery and traditional snacks can be found there. Nice place for window shoping and buying some snacks.
Sanlitun
4.7/5
137 reviewsВо время поездки в Пекин я посетил район Саньлитун (Sanlitun) — одно из самых оживлённых и современных мест города. Этот район отлично подходит для прогулок, шопинга, посещения ресторанов, баров и ночных клубов.Особенно понравилась атмосфера вечером, когда улицы наполняются людьми, зажигаются яркие огни, а район буквально оживает. Здесь находится большое количество заведений на любой вкус — от уютных кафе до популярных ночных клубов. Я посетил несколько клубов и отлично провёл время. Музыка, атмосфера и настроение сделали вечер незабываемым.Также Саньлитун приятно удивил своей современной архитектурой, чистотой и удобством для прогулок. Район безопасный, хорошо организованный и популярен как среди местных жителей, так и среди туристов со всего мира.Рекомендую приезжать сюда после захода солнца, когда можно в полной мере почувствовать энергетику этого места. Если хотите увидеть современный Пекин, познакомиться с ночной жизнью города и просто хорошо провести время, Саньлитун обязательно стоит добавить в свой маршрут.
Prince Kung's Palace Museum
4.7/5
8117 reviewsThe palace is small, but we quickly wandered around it; it's beautiful. Keep in mind that you'll need to show your passport at the ticket office to get a ticket, otherwise you won't be allowed in. We bought tickets with our passport at window 4. Trip.com didn't mention this. At first, we thought we were in the wrong place, even though we were following the Trip.com map.
Beijing Metro Line 7
Passing by Happy Valley Beijing and Olympic Park—two super fun places. Happy Valley is a gigantic theme park packed with adventure and thrills, while Olympic Park was the main site of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, full of adrenaline-pumping sports memories. One’s a playground paradise, the other a shrine to sport—which one would you rather go to?
Reviews of Top Things to Do around Beijing Metro Line 7
Beijing Happy Valley
4.7/5
1707 reviewsWe liked the park; there were interesting rides for both adults and children. The lines weren't very long during our visit; the longest wait was 45 minutes. We were deciding between this park and Universal Studios and chose this one; it was cheaper and closer to our hotel. We recommend it.
Beijing Olympic Park
4.7/5
280 reviewsIt is an amazing place where it's better to go walking after 7pm. The lights are on, exciting activities which everyone can try for free, people are friendly. I really love this place and remember forever.
Universal Beijing Resort
4.6/5
22547 reviewsUniversal Park or Beijing Disneyland's killer. I was there on Sunday, July 5, a summer day, and the first thing I should say is: be sure to buy tickets in advance. I arrived 15 minutes before opening and stood in line for 40 minutes to get in, but in reality, all the lines here move quite briskly, plus you get the chance to meet people during that time. After entering, I followed the same guidelines as all the other bloggers, with the most convenient routes, etc., and they're right. Leave the Hogwarts area for last; it feels like 50% of the park's budget was invested in it, and after that, the other zones won't impress you much. But if you follow the route of Dinosaurs, Transformers, Kung Fu Panda, Water World, Minions, and then Hogwarts, the level will only improve. With the possible exception of Minions, this is a really kid-friendly area and is recommended for families with children, or if you're a big fan of them. As for food, each zone has its own themed kitchen, the price tag is above average, but not astronomical
Beijing Metro Line 8
Along the way, you’ll spot the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center), two “star” buildings.
They were the main venues of the 2008 Beijing Olympics—the Bird’s Nest brings the swagger, while the Water Cube is fresh and adorable—truly the ultimate duo in the world of architecture. Already itching to go check them out and snap some photos?
Photo Source: China Engineering News
Reviews of Top Things to Do around Beijing Metro Line 8
National Stadium-Bird's Nest
4.6/5
508 reviewsThe architecture is quite unique and worth a visit. Seeing the stage under construction during Jay Chou's upcoming concert was a truly special experience.
Water Cube
4.3/5
270 reviewsThe Water Cube is now the Ice Cube. I also saw a water park. Jolin had just held a concert at the Bird's Nest, and there were many banners featuring her inside. The light show was just for publicity; you won't regret missing it.
Beijing Metro Line 9
Passing by Beijing World Park and Lianhuachi Park, get ready to be amazed! World Park is a massive theme park packed with famous buildings and sights from all over the world—it feels like a fast track to a round-the-world trip.
Photo Source: Subway Route Map dir126.com
Reviews of Top Things to Do around Beijing Metro Line 9
Beijing World Park
4.3/5
869 reviewsBeijing World Park is a unique park featuring miniature versions of famous landmarks from around the world all in one place. Walking through the different sections feels like a mini world tour, and the detailed replicas make it a fun and interesting place to explore for a few hours. There is even a zoo inside with animals such as goats, ponies, bunnies etc. great for children.
The Geological Museum of China
4.8/5
1369 reviewsThe entry fee was just 15 CNY and it was quite a decently big place with lots of interesting information (often has English as well).
How Do You Pay for a Metro in Beijing | Beijing Metro Apps
MetroMan Beijing
The updated Beijing metro (subway) mobile app is a total game-changer for getting around! Whether you need in-station navigation, route planning, or arrival alerts, everything’s clearly laid out, making it a breeze for travelers to explore.
Credit: from AppAdvice, MetroMan Beijing
Alipay
Download Alipay and use "Transport" to take public transport in Beijing or other cities of China. It's the most popular and conveninet way to navigate China.
🔥 Beijing Hotel Recommendations
See All Hotels
FAQs about Beijing Metro
-
What is the best way to pay on the Beijing Metro?
-
Is the Beijing Metro easy to navigate for tourists?
-
How much does a Beijing Metro ride cost?
-
What are the peak hours on the Beijing Metro?
-
Is there a security check for the Beijing Metro?
Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.
Popular Searches
-
Getting around
-
Popular attractions
-
Popular flight routes
-
Top-rated stays
-
eSIM/SIM card
- SHIBUYA SKY Ticket
- Shanghai Disneyland Tickets
- Shanghai Tower Tickets
- Shanghai Disneyland Early Entry
- Universal Studios Japan Tickets
- Universal Studios Singapore
- Great Wall of China
- Universal Studios Hollywood Early Entry
- Sphere Tickets
- Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets
- Chengdu Panda
- Beijing studio minisite
- Oriental Pearl Tower
- N Seoul Tower Tickets
- Tokyo DisneySea Tickets
- Return flights from San Francisco to Beijing
- Cheap flights from New York to Beijing
- Flights from Shenzhen to Beijing
- Cheap flights from Los Angeles to Beijing
- Return flights from Chongqing to Beijing
- Cheap flights from Zhangjiajie to Beijing
- Flights from Ulaanbaatar to Beijing
- Return flights from Chengdu to Beijing
- Return flights from Hong Kong to Beijing
- Return flights from Tokyo to Beijing
- Return flights from Shanghai to Beijing
- Cheap flights from Hangzhou to Beijing
- Cheap flights from Seoul to Beijing
- Flights from Xi'an to Beijing
- Flights from Guangzhou to Beijing
- Sunworld Beijing Wangfujing Hotel (The Forbidden City)
- Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing
- Hotel New Otani Chang Fu Gong
- Livefortuna Hotel
- Holiday Inn Express BEIJING DONGZHIMEN by IHG
- THE YARD HOTEL BEIJING, Tian'anmen Square
- Cordis, Beijing Capital Airport
- Yitel (Beijing TiananmenWangfujing Subway Station)
- Beijing Zhong'an Hotel ( Near metro,Tian'anMen,Forbidden City. tourism service)
- VOYAGE INTERNATIONAL HOTEL (Capital Airport New National Exhibition Store)
- Radisson Hotel Beijing Daxing Airport
- Beijing Voyage Garden Hotel（Beijing Daxing International Airport Store)
- RIGHT HOTEL Jinsong Subway Station Panjiayuan Antique City
- Le Joy Hotel
- ELONG R.YUN (Beijing Capital Airport Branch)
- Sunworld Dynasty Beijing Wangfujing Hotel (The Forbidden City)
- Hilton Beijing Capital Airport
- JianGuo Hidden Hotel （Beijing Tian An Men Wangfujing store）
- UrCove by HYATT Beijing Forbidden City
- Jialong Hotel (Beijing Chaoyangmen)