China has an extensive train network, with connections to almost every city and town across the country. You may, however, need to take a local bus once you arrive at the train station. Train travel is probably the most efficient way to get around because it is inexpensive, comfortable and safe. Service is provided by Chinese Railways and there are generally four classes of service, toilets and restaurant cars. The best quality trains are 'C' and 'D' trains, which are faster and have air conditioning. 'Z' trains are slightly older but still have air conditioning. These are followed by the 'T' and then 'K' trains. You can purchase tickets at the train station where the journey originates and you should buy them at least two to three days in advance, or more if it is a busy period. Reservations usually open 10 to 20 days in advance for D to Z trains and 5 to 10 days for the other categories.
International drivers licenses are not accepted in China, however you can apply for a temporary license for 90 days. According to Peter Schindler, founder of On the Road in China, it is best to apply for this in Beijing or through a travel agent. You will be required to produce a certified translation of your overseas drivers license into Chinese and pass an eye sight and hearing test. He recommends Avis if you need to rent a car as a western foreigner in China.
Buses in China are usually the cheapest way to travel around China, but can be dangerous, according to Robert Vance. It is recommended for long-distance travel if you cannot get a train to your destination. Long-distance buses have beds but no toilet facilities. Bus drivers will make stops on long routes for you to eat and use the toilet--(bring toilet paper with you. Tickets may be purchased at the bus station and the cost will depend on the distance and speed of the journey. You will receive an assigned seat. Another bus option is to join a tour. STA has introduced Dragon Bus Passes for flexible travel around China.
Taxi travel is relatively inexpensive in the cities. The best way to get a taxi is to find the taxi rank at transportation hubs and hotels or hail them from the side of the road. You will incur a flagfall charge and then a charge for the metered distance. Have a hotel employee write your destination down in Chinese on paper to show the driver. Don't accept a ride with a driver who says he has a broken meter. It is common for passengers to ride in the front passenger seat next to the driver.
Because of the vast distances from one city to another in China, most people choose to fly. There are 14 regional airlines and you can purchase tickets at a travel agency. The busy holiday periods in China are May 1 through 5, mid-September and the first half of October, so be sure to buy tickets well in advance if planning travel during these time periods. There is a departure tax on internal flights of 50 RMB.
