Nanjing

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Public Transportation

Sections

1. Overview of Public Transportation in Nanjing

Nanjing offers a variety of public transportation options, including:

  • Metro (Subway)
  • Public Buses
  • Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
  • Bicycles and E-Bikes (Shared Services)
  • Ferries (for crossing the Yangtze River)

Each mode of transport is interconnected, making it convenient to travel across the city.

2. Nanjing Metro System

The Nanjing Metro is the backbone of the cityโ€™s public transportation system. It is modern, clean, and efficient, with announcements in both Mandarin and English.

Key Features:

  • Lines: As of 2023, Nanjing has 12 metro lines (Lines 1โ€“10, S1, and S3), covering most major areas, including the city center, suburbs, and Nanjing Lukou International Airport (via Line S1).
  • Operating Hours: Typically from 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM, though exact times vary by line and station.
  • Frequency: Trains run every 3โ€“8 minutes during peak hours and every 8โ€“12 minutes during off-peak hours.

Ticketing Options:

  1. Single-Journey Tickets:

    • Cost: ยฅ2โ€“ยฅ9 depending on the distance.
    • Purchase: Available at ticket vending machines in metro stations (machines have English language options).
    • How to Use: Tap the ticket at the entry gate and insert it into the slot at the exit gate.

  2. Nanjing Public Transportation Card (Nanjing Tong):

    • Cost: A refundable deposit of ยฅ25 plus a minimum top-up of ยฅ20.
    • Benefits: Offers a 5% discount on metro fares and can also be used on buses, ferries, and shared bikes.
    • Purchase: Available at metro station service counters and some convenience stores.
    • How to Use: Tap the card at the entry and exit gates.

  3. QR Code Payment:

    • Use the Nanjing Metro App or popular Chinese payment apps like WeChat Pay or Alipay to generate a QR code for scanning at the gates.
    • Note: This option requires a Chinese bank account or linked payment method.

Tips for Using the Metro:

  • Avoid peak hours (7:30โ€“9:00 AM and 5:30โ€“7:30 PM) if possible, as trains can get crowded.
  • Keep your belongings secure, as pickpocketing can occasionally occur in crowded areas.
  • Eating and drinking are prohibited on the metro.

3. Public Buses

Nanjingโ€™s bus network is extensive, covering areas not served by the metro. Buses are a cost-effective way to travel, though they may be slower due to traffic.

Key Features:

  • Routes: Over 400 routes, including regular, express, and night buses.
  • Operating Hours: Most buses run from 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM, with some night buses operating until midnight or later.

Costs:

  • Standard Buses: ยฅ2 per ride.
  • Air-Conditioned Buses: ยฅ2โ€“ยฅ3 per ride.
  • Payment: Use cash (exact change required), the Nanjing Public Transportation Card, or QR code payment via WeChat/Alipay.

Tips for Using Buses:

  • Bus stops are marked with route numbers and schedules, but information is often only in Chinese. Use navigation apps like Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode Maps) for route planning.
  • Be prepared for crowded buses during rush hours.
  • Enter through the front door and exit through the rear door.

4. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services

Taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient for short distances or areas not well-served by public transport.

Taxis:

  • Starting Fare: ยฅ11 for the first 3 kilometers, then ยฅ2.6 per kilometer.
  • Night Surcharge: 20% higher fares between 11:00 PM and 6:00 AM.
  • Payment: Cash, WeChat Pay, or Alipay.
  • Tip: Always ask for a receipt (fapiao) in case you leave something behind.

Ride-Hailing Apps:

  • Popular apps include DiDi Chuxing (similar to Uber).
  • Cost: Comparable to taxis but often cheaper during non-peak hours.
  • Note: The app interface is available in English, but drivers may only speak Mandarin. Use the in-app translation feature if needed.

5. Shared Bicycles and E-Bikes

Nanjing is a bike-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes and shared bike services.

Providers:

  • Mobike, Hellobike, and Meituan Bike are the main operators.
  • Cost: Around ยฅ1โ€“ยฅ2 per 30 minutes.
  • Payment: Via the providerโ€™s app, linked to WeChat Pay or Alipay.

Tips:

  • Park bikes in designated areas to avoid fines.
  • Helmets are not provided, so consider bringing your own for safety.

6. Ferries

Ferries operate across the Yangtze River, connecting the cityโ€™s northern and southern districts.

Key Features:

  • Cost: Around ยฅ1โ€“ยฅ2 per trip.
  • Payment: Cash or Nanjing Public Transportation Card.
  • Note: Ferries are less commonly used by tourists but can be a scenic way to cross the river.

7. Ticketing and Payment Options

For convenience, the Nanjing Public Transportation Card is highly recommended. It can be used across all modes of transport and offers discounts. Alternatively, mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted.

8. Navigation and Apps

  • Baidu Maps and Amap (Gaode Maps): Essential for planning routes. Both apps have English versions and provide real-time public transport information.
  • Nanjing Metro App: Useful for metro schedules, fare calculation, and QR code payment.

9. Cultural Considerations and Local Tips

  • Language Barrier: Most signage includes English translations, but bus announcements and some ticket machines may only be in Chinese. Learning basic Mandarin phrases or using a translation app can be helpful.
  • Queuing Etiquette: People generally queue for metro trains and buses. Follow the lines and let passengers exit before boarding.
  • Personal Space: Public transport can get crowded, especially during rush hours. Be patient and respectful of othersโ€™ space.
  • Air Quality: Nanjing occasionally experiences air pollution. Consider wearing a mask, especially if youโ€™re cycling or walking long distances.

10. Costs Summary

| Mode of Transport | Cost Range | Payment Options | |---------------------------|--------------------|------------------------------------------| | Metro | ยฅ2โ€“ยฅ9 | Cash, Nanjing Card, QR Code | | Bus | ยฅ2โ€“ยฅ3 | Cash, Nanjing Card, QR Code | | Taxi | Starting at ยฅ11 | Cash, WeChat Pay, Alipay | | Shared Bikes | ยฅ1โ€“ยฅ2 per 30 min | App-based (WeChat Pay, Alipay) | | Ferry | ยฅ1โ€“ยฅ2 | Cash, Nanjing Card |

11. Final Tips

  • Always carry small change if you plan to pay in cash, as drivers and ticket machines may not provide change.
  • Download essential apps before arriving in Nanjing, as some require a Chinese phone number for registration.
  • Plan your trips in advance, especially if youโ€™re traveling during peak hours or to less accessible areas.

With this guide, you should be well-prepared to navigate Nanjingโ€™s public transportation system efficiently and confidently. Enjoy your time in this historic and dynamic city!