How to Pay
- Yikatong card (δΈε‘ι)
- Alipay
- WeChat Pay
- UnionPay contactless
- Paper ticket (ticket machines)
π‘ The Yikatong card (Β₯20 deposit + loaded credit) gives the same distance-based fare as paper tickets but is faster at gates. Alipay and WeChat Pay now work at most turnstiles β convenient for visitors with a Chinese payment app.
Peak Hours
No peak surcharge β flat distance-based fares at all times β trains are busiest during these hours. Fares do not change by time of day, but expect crowded carriages during rush hour.
Fare Table (CNY)
| Distance | Off-Peak | Peak |
|---|---|---|
| Base fare (0β6 km) | Β₯3 | Β₯3 |
| 6β12 km | Β₯4 | Β₯4 |
| 12β22 km | Β₯5 | Β₯5 |
| 22β32 km | Β₯6 | Β₯6 |
| Airport Express flat fare | Β₯35 | Β₯35 |
| Daxing Airport Express | Β₯35 | Β₯35 |
Payment Cards & Passes
Yikatong Card Guide
How to use the Yikatong card on the Beijing Subway β buying, loading, fares, and Alipay/WeChat Pay alternatives for visitors in 2026.
- Works on Beijing Subway, all buses, and some intercity transport in Beijing.
- Β₯20 deposit refundable at service centres when leaving.
- No need to queue for a ticket every journey β tap and go.
Tips to Save Money
- Use the Yikatong Card Guide instead of buying a single-journey ticket every time β it's faster and usually cheaper.
- Travel off-peak β No peak surcharge β flat distance-based fares at all times. Fares are lower and trains are less crowded outside these hours.
- The metro is always cheaper than taxis for the airport journey β see the airport connection guide for fares and timings.
- Check the Beijing Mass Transit Railway Operation Corp. (BJMTR) official website for any promotional passes or tourist cards that may offer unlimited travel for a fixed period.
- Plan journeys using the official app β some operators offer digital tickets that are slightly cheaper than physical tokens.
Fares are indicative and subject to change. Always verify current fares at the Beijing Mass Transit Railway Operation Corp. (BJMTR) official website.