If you’re heading to Beijing and plan to get around like a local, forget the stress of buying tickets at every stop, the Beijing Metro Card (Yikatong) is the golden key to a smoother, smarter trip.
Activities to Enjoy in Beijing
If you're commuting across districts or hopping between temples and shopping malls, this nifty little card is your ultimate sidekick.
The Yikatong Card, officially known as the Beijing Transportation Smart Card, is a rechargeable travel pass that works across almost every form of public transport in the city. That includes subways, city buses, airport express trains, and even select taxis and ferries. Basically, if it moves, this card’s got you covered.
So, why is it a must-have?
Plus, it’s compact, contactless, and feels a bit like holding a VIP pass to the entire city. Total win.
Purchasing a Yikatong card is straightforward and tourist-friendly, even if you do not speak Mandarin. The process is simple, quick, and well-supported at most major subway stations across Beijing.
Where to buy Yikatong cards? Yikatong cards can be purchased at any subway station customer service counter. These counters are usually located beside the ticket vending machines. Major hubs such as Beijing Railway Station, Dongzhimen, and Xidan often have signage in English and staff who are accustomed to assisting foreign travellers. Even if there's a language barrier, most staff can assist through gestures, translations, or printed guides.
You’ll need to pay in Chinese yuan (CNY). While some stations accept WeChat Pay or Alipay, these platforms usually require a Chinese bank account or SIM-linked wallet, which can be complicated for tourists. It is highly recommended to use cash for a smoother purchase process.
There is a refundable deposit of CNY 20 (around RM11.81) for the card. You will also need to top up the card with a balance to use it. A common starting amount is CNY 50 to 100 (approximately RM29.53 to RM59.05), which should cover subway and bus rides for a few days depending on your travel distance.
Before leaving Beijing, you can return your card at designated stations such as Dongzhimen, Xizhimen, or Beijing Railway Station. You’ll be refunded the CNY 20 deposit (RM11.81) and any unused balance, provided the card is in good condition and within the refund policy terms.
Always keep your receipt when purchasing the card. It will make refund claims or lost card issues much easier to resolve with the transport authorities.
Using the Yikatong is wonderfully straightforward, but here are a few tips to truly ride like a Beijinger:
1. On the subway
Tap your card once at the entry gate and again when you exit. The system automatically calculates your fare based on distance.
2. On buses
Just tap once when you board. No need to tap again when you get off. Easy!
3. Topping up
Add credit at ticket machines, customer service windows, or select convenience stores. You can top up in any amount, but a good rule is to keep at least CNY 20 on the card to avoid delays.
4. Lost card protection
If you’re staying in Beijing for a while, consider registering your card at certain stations. This helps you recover your balance in case of loss.
5. Going digital
If you’ve got a Chinese SIM card and NFC-compatible phone, you can use the mobile version of Yikatong via apps like Beijing One Card. Super convenient, but requires a local setup.
And yes, you’ll look like a local tapping your way through the city with confidence. No paper tickets, no coin counting, just beep-and-go freedom.
With a Yikatong in your pocket, Beijing becomes instantly more accessible. Ride smoothly between the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, 798 Art District, and those tucked-away noodle joints only locals know about. The subway gets you there quickly, cheaply, and without fuss.
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Tue, 8 Jul 2025
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