Beijing Metro Map 2026: Lines, Stations and Travel Guide

Beijing is easy to explore once you get used to its metro system. It connects major areas, from Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City to Sanlitun and Wangfujing. Trains are on time, stations are clean, and signs are in both Chinese and English, making it simple even for first-time visitors. Just remember to check the metro’s operating hours, as most lines close around midnight.

Overview of Beijing Metro System

Sources: bjsubway.com

The Beijing Metro is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to get around Beijing, especially for tourists. It connects major attractions, shopping areas, business districts, airports, and railway stations.

As of the latest updates:

• Beijing has 30 metro lines
• The network now covers around 909 km
• There are over 520 stations
• The newest expansion opened on December 27, 2025, including Line 18, the Line 17 middle section, and the Line 6 southern extension

These updates came after the late 2024 opening of Line 3, Line 12, and the Changping Line southern extension. For travelers, the metro is a practical way to avoid traffic and reach popular places like Tian’anmen Square, the Forbidden City, Wangfujing, and Universal Beijing Resort.

Beijing Metro Lines

The Beijing Metro is one of the largest subway networks in the world, connecting the city center with suburbs, airports, railway stations, shopping areas, and major attractions.

Most lines run from around 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM, but first and last train times depend on the station and direction. If you are traveling early or late, always check the latest schedule before riding.

General Operating Trends & Tips

• Rush hours are usually around 7:00 AM to 9:30 AM and 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
• Trains are frequent in central areas, but suburban and branch lines may have longer waiting times.
• Airport lines may have different fares and operating hours.
• Some newer lines or extensions may have shorter operating hours during the early operation period.
• Always check the last train time before returning late at night.

Popular Metro Lines and Attractions You Can Reach in Beijing

The Beijing Subway connects many of the city’s top attractions, shopping areas, airports, and railway stations, making it one of the easiest ways for tourists to explore Beijing.

Beijing Metro Fares & Tickets

The Beijing Subway uses a distance-based fare system, so the fare depends on how far you travel. Most regular metro rides cost around CNY 3 to CNY 10, but airport lines have different fares.

How Much Is the Fare?

• First 6 km: CNY 3, around PHP 24
• 6 to 12 km: CNY 4
• 12 to 22 km: CNY 5
• 22 to 32 km: CNY 6
• Over 32 km: add CNY 1 for every extra 20 km
• There is no maximum fare cap
• Children under 1.3 meters can ride free when accompanied by an adult

Ticket and Payment Options

Travel Tips

• Keep small cash or a backup payment method in case one option does not work.
• If using a physical ticket or token, keep it because you need it to exit the station.
• For tourists, Alipay, Beijing Pass, or contactless Visa/Mastercard are usually the easiest options.
• Complete your metro trip within 4 hours after entering the gate to avoid an overtime fee.
• Check airport line fares separately, as they do not follow the normal distance-based network fare.

Tips for Beijing Metro Fares & Tickets

• Use Alipay, Beijing Pass, or contactless Visa/Mastercard for the easiest payment experience.
• Keep your ticket or token until the end because you need it to exit the station.
• Prepare a backup payment method, like small cash or another card, in case your app or card does not work.
• Check airport line fares separately because they may not follow the normal subway fare system.
• Complete your trip within 4 hours after entering the gate to avoid an overtime fee.
• Avoid rush hours if you are carrying luggage, especially from 7:00 AM to 9:30 AM and 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
• Use the correct exit number because big Beijing stations can have many exits, and the wrong one may add a long walk.