How to Get a Subway Card in Beijing

Beijing’s subway system is one of the most efficient and affordable ways to navigate the sprawling city. With its extensive network of lines connecting major attractions, business districts, and residential areas, the subway is a favorite mode of transport for both locals and visitors. If you plan to use the subway frequently during your stay, getting a Beijing Transportation Smart Card, also known as the Yikatong, is highly recommended. This guide will explain everything you need to know about acquiring and using a subway card in Beijing.

What Is the Beijing Transportation Smart Card?

The Beijing Transportation Smart Card, or Yikatong, is a rechargeable contactless card that can be used on all subway lines, buses, and even some taxis in Beijing. It’s a convenient way to avoid the hassle of buying single-ride tickets for every trip.

Benefits of the Yikatong Card

• Ease of Use: Simply tap the card at the entrance and exit gates of the subway.
• Discounts: Enjoy fare discounts on both the subway and buses.
• Flexibility: The card can also be used at some convenience stores and for bike-sharing services.
• Refundable Deposit: The card requires a deposit, but it’s refundable when you return the card.

Where to Get a Subway Card in Beijing

You can obtain a Yikatong card at several locations throughout the city.

Subway Stations

• Most major subway stations have dedicated service counters or ticket machines where you can purchase a card.
• Look for signs indicating "Service Center" or "Customer Service."

Bus Terminals

• Some bus terminals and transportation hubs also issue Yikatong cards.

Authorized Retailers

• Select convenience stores, such as 7-Eleven, often sell and recharge Yikatong cards.

How to Apply for a Yikatong Card

Getting a card is a straightforward process.

Steps to Purchase

1. Visit a Service Counter: Go to a subway station with a customer service desk or use a ticket machine.
2. Request the Card: Say “Yikatong, please” to the staff or select the option on the machine.
3. Pay the Deposit: The standard deposit is 20 RMB.
4. Load Credit: Add any amount you wish for subway and bus rides. A starting balance of 50-100 RMB is recommended.

Documents Required

• No ID is necessary to purchase a standard Yikatong card.
• For personalized cards, such as student or senior versions, you may need official identification and proof of eligibility.

How to Use the Yikatong Card

Once you have your card, using it is simple.

On the Subway

1. Entry: Tap your card at the turnstile to enter. The screen will display your current balance.
2. Exit: Tap the card again at the exit gate. The fare will be deducted automatically based on the distance traveled.

On Buses

• Tap the card when boarding the bus. For some routes, you may need to tap again when exiting.

Checking Your Balance

• Use balance-checking machines available at subway stations.
• Look for the remaining balance displayed on the screen after each tap.

Recharging Your Card

Keeping your Yikatong card topped up is easy and can be done at several locations.

Recharge Options

1. Ticket Machines: Found in subway stations, these machines accept cash or mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay.
2. Service Counters: Staff at subway stations can help you recharge your card.
3. Convenience Stores: Some stores, such as 7-Eleven and FamilyMart, allow you to add credit.
4. Mobile Apps: If you have a Chinese bank account, you can recharge your card through mobile apps linked to your account.

Types of Yikatong Cards

There are different types of Yikatong cards to suit various needs.

Standard Card

• Available to everyone and usable across all transportation modes.
• No special benefits or discounts beyond the standard fare reduction.

Personalized Card

• Includes your name and photo.
• Ideal for long-term residents or those who frequently use public transportation.

Discount Cards

• Student Cards: Offer significant discounts on fares. Requires proof of enrollment at a Beijing educational institution.
• Senior Cards: For residents over a certain age, providing free or reduced fares.

Returning the Card and Getting a Refund

When you no longer need your Yikatong card, you can return it to get your deposit and remaining balance refunded.

Refund Process

1. Visit a Service Center: Go to a designated subway station service counter.
2. Hand Over the Card: Staff will verify the card and process your refund.
3. Receive Your Refund: You’ll get your 20 RMB deposit and any unused balance back.

Important Notes

• Damaged cards may not be eligible for a full refund.
• There may be a small fee for processing refunds if the card is returned after several years.

Tips for Using the Yikatong Card

1. Avoid Peak Hours: Subways can be extremely crowded during morning and evening rush hours.
2. Keep Your Card Safe: Lost or stolen cards cannot be replaced, and the balance will not be refunded.
3. Monitor Your Balance: Check your balance regularly to avoid running out of credit.
4. Use Mobile Payment Integration: Some apps allow you to bind your Yikatong card to your phone for easier recharging.

Other Considerations

Tourist Cards

For short-term visitors, special tourist versions of the Yikatong card may include added benefits such as free entry to certain attractions.

Alternatives to the Yikatong Card

• Single-ride tickets are available but less convenient for frequent travel.
• Mobile payment systems like Alipay and WeChat Pay now allow direct access to the subway without a physical card, though this requires a Chinese bank account.

The Yikatong card is an essential tool for anyone planning to explore Beijing efficiently. With a little preparation, you’ll be navigating the city like a local in no time.