Navigating & Transportation 交通
Mastering the high-speed rail network (12306), Didi ride-hailing, and Amap to get around effortlessly.
Last updated: Sun Mar 08 2026
China’s transportation infrastructure is a modern marvel, but the digital tools required to use it are highly localized.
High-Speed Rail (12306)
Do not use expensive third-party wrappers. Download the official 12306 app (it has an English version) to book high-speed rail tickets directly.
- Identity Verification: You will need to verify your passport via the app or at a train station before purchasing.
- Boarding: There are no paper tickets. You simply scan your passport at the automated turnstiles!
Ride-Hailing (DiDi)
Uber does not exist in China. You must use DiDi (滴滴).
- Download the DiDi app (available in English) or use the mini-program inside Alipay/WeChat.
- It automatically translates text messages between you and the driver!
- Fares are incredibly cheap by Western standards.
Maps (Amap / 高德)
Google Maps is fundamentally broken in China (the GPS coordinates are shifted due to legal restrictions).
- Apple Maps works decently if you are on an iPhone using foreign roaming.
- The best app is Amap (高德地图) or Baidu Maps. While they are primarily in Chinese, you can search locations using Pinyin or English names, and the visual navigation is flawless.