Beijing is a throbbing nerve center of ring roads, highways and subways connecting local spots, railways stations and airports.
The city is enclosed by six ring roads, with nine expressways and eleven national highways. Today's Style Watch provides some tips on how to get around Beijing.
BUS
There are many public bus lines which can take you to every corner of Beijing. Taking the bus is one of the most convenient and cheapest ways to get around the city. The trick is to find the right line. To get where you want to go, often you have to change buses several times, which is time-consuming and confusing. The attendants can help visitors know when to get off the bus.
The public buses make stops at all of the city's major sites and commercial centers. There are some express buses which connect the major scenic spots such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Summer Palace.
SUBWAY
One of the biggest concerns with traffic in Beijing is its apparently ubiquitous traffic jams. Therefore, many have claimed that the subway is best way to get around Beijing. In 2008, Beijing's subway system was comprised of seven lines. It will have some new additions this year.
The subway goes to most of the important sites in Beijing, including the Tiananmen Square. During rush hour, the metro is always packed with commuters. But it's still a good option to escape the traffic snarls of the city.
TAXI
The easiest means of getting around in Beijing is by taking the city's taxis. The drivers are always happy to give advice to visitors. Tourists don't need to worry about finding their way back to their hotel, because every hotel will offer its guests a business card written in Chinese and English. This informs taxi drivers how to take you back there. Some visitors like to hire a driver for a day. It is much cheaper than using the meter, and is very convenient.
The taxi fee in Beijing starts from ten yuan for the first three kilometers, then the charge for the following journey is two yuan per kilometer.
CAR
Visitors to Beijing do not normally rent cars, with the public transport system being an easy way for tourists to see the city's attractions. Furthermore, the roads can be difficult to navigate if you are unfamiliar with the city.
Yet, renting a private car or van is an affordable luxury to enjoy sightseeing in Beijing. Should you wish to rent a car in Beijing, we recommend that you hire a driver too, with many hotels and agencies at the airport being able to arrange this for you.
BICYCLE
One of the primary modes of transport in Beijing is still the bicycle. It is also a perfect way for visitors to explore the city. It offers visitors the chance to stop where they would like, for as long as they want. Bicycles can be rented from many hotels.
Besides being a fun way to get to know the city, cycling doesn't trap you into the long lines of traffic congestion. You can move at your own tempo. What's more, it's environmental-friendly and great exercise.
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