Airport Express
The Airport Express connects Beijing Capital Airport to downtown Beijing. There are a total of four stops - Terminal 2, Terminal 3, Sanyuanqiao (links with Subway Line 10) and Dongzhimen (links with Subway Line 2 and 13). The journey takes around half an hour. A one way fare costs RMB 25 regardless of how many stops. Fares can be paid by Yikatong or purchased in stations.
Beijing Subway
Beijing Subway provides a convenient and quick way to get around Beijing, including to many attractions, and is particularly useful over longer distances. The system currently has a total of nine lines. Subway Line 2 is a loop line that circles the inner city, Dongzhimen Station on this line links to the Airport Express. Line 1 runs east-west through the city centre and provides access to Tian'anmen Square, Wangfujing and Xidan shopping areas. Fares can be purchased for each journey or by Yikatong (smart card). LINK: Beijing subway map LINK: Ticket and fare info
Buses in Beijing
Buses are cheap and an excellent way to travel short distances along major roads or to get to destinations that are not served by a Subway route. Fares are payable to a roaming or seated conductor, or by Yikatong card.
Taxis
Officially registered Taxis are easily noticeable by their twin colour scheme (usually a light and dark colour). Taxis in Beijing should always use their meters. RMB 1 is added to fares below a certain price. A short distance journey costs around RMB 10-15. Longer journeys within Beijing (from the centre to outer city attractions) cost around RMB 30-35. Fares to the airport are around RMB 90-100 or more depending on traffic conditions and your location in Beijing. Taxis can be difficult to hail (during busy periods or when drivers are taking a break). Many drivers will refuse to drive down narrow Hutong (lanes). Sometimes it is not possible to be dropped off in front of your intended destination due to street or traffic restrictions.
Yikatong
Yikatong card is a smart card that can be used for travel on the Beijing Subway (including the Airport Express) and all city buses. Cards can be purchased and topped up at subway stations. A RMB 20 deposit applies.