Practical guide
China metro: buy a single ticket at the station when that is simplest
Use the ticket office or self-service machine, then follow the local station prompts.
The Ministry of Commerce’s English guide says foreign travelers can buy single-journey metro tickets at a station ticket office or self-service machine. It says payment for tickets or passes may be made by Chinese or foreign bank cards, RMB cash or mobile-payment apps, but directs travelers to station signage or cashiers for the applicable current methods.
A clear next step
- Choose the ticket office or self-service machine at your departure station.
- Follow the current station prompts for destination and payment.
- Check the displayed accepted payment method before relying on a card or app.
Sources & verification
Last verified
- Guide to Working and Living in China | Ministry of Commerce single-ticket purchase at ticket offices or machines · listed potential payment routes · signage/cashier guidance for applicable methods