Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
End of dialog window.
Ever wondered how much it costs to get around Beijing in a day? Rachel, a young traveler, took on the city using three popular modes of transportation: the subway, shared bikes, and taxis. Here’s how her day unfolded and what it cost her.
The Subway: Fast and Affordable
Rachel began her day by hopping on the Beijing subway. With an extensive network covering most of the city, the subway is a convenient option for many commuters. A single ride costs between 3 to 9 yuan (approximately $0.50 to $1.40 USD), depending on the distance traveled. Rachel’s morning commute cost her just 5 yuan ($0.80 USD), taking her from her hostel to the iconic Tiananmen Square.
Shared Bikes: Exploring with Freedom
After sightseeing, Rachel decided to explore the nearby hutongs using a shared bike. Companies like Mobike and Ofo offer bicycles that can be unlocked via smartphone apps. The cost? Only 1 yuan ($0.16 USD) for a 30-minute ride. Rachel spent a leisurely hour cycling through the narrow alleys, spending a total of 2 yuan ($0.32 USD).
Taxis: Convenience at a Price
As evening approached, Rachel opted for a taxi to experience Beijing’s nightlife. While taxis are more expensive than the subway or bikes, they offer comfort and direct routes. The base fare starts at 13 yuan ($2.00 USD) for the first 3 kilometers, with additional costs per kilometer thereafter. Rachel’s 10-kilometer ride cost her 30 yuan ($4.70 USD).
The Total Cost
By the end of the day, Rachel had spent a total of 37 yuan ($5.82 USD) on transportation:
Subway: 5 yuan
Shared Bikes: 2 yuan
Taxi: 30 yuan
For less than $6 USD, she navigated one of the world’s largest cities with ease.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, Beijing offers a variety of affordable transportation options. From the extensive subway system to the freedom of shared bikes and the convenience of taxis, getting around the city doesn’t have to break the bank.
