Hangzhou

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Public Transportation

Sections

1. Overview of Transportation Options in Hangzhou

Hangzhou offers a variety of public transportation options, including:

  • Metro (Subway)
  • Public Buses
  • Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
  • Bike-Sharing (e.g., Meituan, Alipay’s Hellobike)
  • Ferries (for West Lake and Qiantang River)
  • High-Speed Rail (for intercity travel)

2. Metro (Subway) System

The Hangzhou Metro is modern, clean, and efficient, making it one of the best ways to get around the city.

Key Features:

  • Lines: As of 2023, Hangzhou has 12 metro lines, with more under construction. Key lines include Line 1 (connects downtown to the East Railway Station) and Line 2 (connects the city center to the airport).
  • Operating Hours: Typically from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, though exact times vary by line and station.
  • Frequency: Trains run every 3-8 minutes during peak hours and every 8-12 minutes during off-peak hours.

Ticketing and Costs:

  • Fares: Start at ¥2 for short distances and increase based on distance traveled, with a maximum fare of around ¥10.
  • Payment Options:
    • Single-ride tickets: Purchase at ticket machines in metro stations (machines have English language options).
    • Hangzhou Metro Card (Zhejiang Transportation Card): A rechargeable card that can be used for metro, buses, and bike-sharing. Available at metro stations for a refundable deposit of ¥20.
    • Mobile Payments: Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted for metro rides. Simply scan the QR code at the turnstile.

Tips:

  • Avoid peak hours (7:30-9:00 AM and 5:30-7:30 PM) if possible, as trains can get crowded.
  • Announcements and signage are in both Chinese and English, making navigation easier for non-Chinese speakers.

3. Public Bus System

Hangzhou’s bus network is extensive, covering almost every corner of the city, including tourist attractions like West Lake and Lingyin Temple.

Key Features:

  • Routes: Over 500 routes, including regular buses, express buses, and night buses.
  • Operating Hours: Most buses run from 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM, with some night buses operating until midnight or later.
  • Air-Conditioned Buses: Most buses are air-conditioned, especially during summer.

Ticketing and Costs:

  • Fares: Typically ¥2 for most routes. Air-conditioned buses may charge ¥3-4.
  • Payment Options:
    • Cash (exact change required).
    • Hangzhou Metro Card (Zhejiang Transportation Card).
    • Mobile Payments (Alipay or WeChat Pay).

Tips:

  • Bus stops are labeled in Chinese, but major stops often include English translations.
  • Download the "Hangzhou Bus" app or use Baidu Maps for real-time bus schedules and route planning.

4. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services

Taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient for short trips or when public transportation is less accessible.

Taxis:

  • Starting Fare: ¥11 for the first 3 kilometers, then ¥2.5 per kilometer.
  • Night Surcharge: A 20% surcharge applies between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM.
  • Payment: Cash, Alipay, or WeChat Pay.

Ride-Hailing Apps:

  • Didi Chuxing: The most popular ride-hailing app in China. Available in English via the Didi app.
  • Costs: Comparable to taxis, but prices may vary during peak hours or bad weather.

Tips:

  • Always ensure the taxi meter is running.
  • Have your destination written in Chinese, as many drivers do not speak English.
  • Use ride-hailing apps for convenience and to avoid language barriers.

5. Bike-Sharing System

Hangzhou is famous for its bike-sharing system, one of the first and largest in the world. It’s an eco-friendly and affordable way to explore the city, especially around West Lake.

Key Features:

  • Providers: Meituan Bikes, Hellobike (via Alipay), and others.
  • Availability: Bikes are widely available at docking stations and on sidewalks.
  • Cost:
    • Typically ¥1-2 per 30 minutes.
    • Some apps offer free rides for the first 30 minutes with a subscription or deposit.

How to Use:

  1. Download the app (Meituan or Alipay).
  2. Register with your phone number and link a payment method.
  3. Scan the QR code on the bike to unlock it.
  4. Return the bike to any docking station or designated area.

Tips:

  • Stick to bike lanes and avoid riding on busy roads.
  • Be cautious of pedestrians, especially in tourist-heavy areas.

6. Ferries

Ferries are a scenic way to travel across West Lake or the Qiantang River.

West Lake Ferries:

  • Operate between various points around the lake.
  • Cost: Around ¥55-75 for a round trip, depending on the route.
  • Tickets: Purchase at ferry terminals or online.

Qiantang River Ferries:

  • Primarily used for commuting between districts.
  • Cost: Around ¥3-5.

7. High-Speed Rail

Hangzhou is a major hub for China’s high-speed rail network, making it easy to travel to nearby cities like Shanghai, Suzhou, and Nanjing.

Key Stations:

  • Hangzhou East Railway Station: The main hub for high-speed trains.
  • Hangzhou Railway Station: Serves both high-speed and regular trains.

Tips:

  • Book tickets in advance via the 12306 app or at the station.
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes early for security checks.

8. Ticketing Procedures

  • Hangzhou Metro Card: The most convenient option for frequent travelers. It can be used on the metro, buses, and bike-sharing systems.
  • Mobile Payments: Widely accepted across all transportation modes. Ensure you have Alipay or WeChat Pay set up with a linked bank card.
  • Tourist Passes: Some tourist passes include unlimited metro and bus rides for a set period. Check with local tourism offices.

9. Local Tips and Cultural Considerations

  • Language Barrier: While signage is often bilingual, most bus drivers and taxi drivers do not speak English. Use translation apps like Pleco or Google Translate.
  • Crowds: Public transportation can be very crowded during rush hours and holidays. Plan your trips accordingly.
  • Etiquette:
    • Always queue when boarding buses or the metro.
    • Offer your seat to elderly passengers, pregnant women, or those with disabilities.
    • Avoid loud conversations or phone calls on public transportation.
  • Weather Considerations: Summers in Hangzhou can be hot and humid, so air-conditioned buses and the metro are preferable. During the rainy season, carry an umbrella if you plan to bike.

10. Useful Apps for Navigation

  • Baidu Maps: Excellent for route planning and real-time updates (available in English).
  • Alipay/WeChat Pay: Essential for cashless payments.
  • Hangzhou Metro App: Provides metro maps, schedules, and fare information.
  • Didi Chuxing: For ride-hailing services.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Hangzhou’s public transportation system with ease. Whether you’re commuting to work, exploring the city’s rich history, or enjoying the scenic beauty of West Lake, Hangzhou’s transportation network has you covered!