The BEIJING PASS: Explore China with Ease!

44 Responses to “The BEIJING PASS: Explore China with Ease!”

1. 

   Meadow 2024-09-08

   Hi, how much is the Beijing pass?

   2024-09-08 at 17:02

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     Ricky 2024-09-08

     There are three types of Beijing Passes available, each featuring a unique design. Each card has a base fee of 20 RMB. For the recharge amounts, two cards require 80 RMB each, while the third card requires 30 RMB. Consequently, the total prices for these cards are 100 RMB for each of the first two and 50 RMB for the third.

     2024-09-08 at 21:22

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2. 

   Rachel Wong 2024-09-29

   Hi, is there any limit of the number of Beijing Passes can be purchased by per person? I have two adults and two children (above 1.3m), so I would need 4 of these passes and I prefer having the 100RMB price for all, so can I do two times of purchases, each purchase is 2 cards?
   Thanks!

   2024-09-29 at 17:48

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   • 

     Ricky 2024-09-29

     There’s no limit on how many Beijing Passes you can buy. You can definitely purchase 4 passes for your two adults and two children (above 1.3m).

     Buying them in two separate orders of 2 cards each is perfectly fine to get the 100 RMB price for all. This will make sure everyone has their pass without any issues.

     2024-09-29 at 20:07

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3. 

   Eric 2024-11-07

   Greetings, Ricky. i would like to ask further about the usage of this Beijing Pass. i have read in this website that this Beijing Pass could be used to purchase some scenic spot tickets in Beijing such as Summer Palace, Badaling Great Wall, etc. i have read in other website that majority of this scenic spots need to be booked in advance otherwise we cannot enter the scenic spots. By using this Beijing Pass, could i as a tourist buy entrance ticket on the spot and use it on the same day without booking in advance? Is there any differences on scenic spot entrance ticket price if i use Beijing Pass compared to without using Beijing Pass? Thank you!

   2024-11-07 at 11:07

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   • 

     Ricky 2024-11-07

     Hi Eric,
     Thank you for reaching out with your questions about the BEIJING PASS. This card is designed to enhance the convenience of foreign visitors by integrating transportation, shopping, and ticket purchases for various attractions in Beijing.

     Advance Booking Requirements:

     Many popular attractions in Beijing, such as the Forbidden City, require advance reservations due to high visitor numbers and capacity controls. Even with the BEIJING PASS, it’s advisable to check each attraction’s official website or contact them directly to understand their booking policies. Some sites may allow on-the-spot ticket purchases using the BEIJING PASS, while others might still require advance booking.

     Ticket Pricing with BEIJING PASS:

     The BEIJING PASS facilitates cashless transactions and may offer convenience, but it doesn’t inherently provide discounts on entrance fees. Ticket prices at attractions remain the same whether you use the BEIJING PASS or other payment methods.

     Recommendations:

     Check Official Sources: Before visiting, consult the official websites of the attractions you’re interested in to understand their ticketing and reservation policies.

     Plan Ahead: To ensure a smooth experience, especially during peak tourist seasons, consider making reservations in advance when required.

     I hope this information helps you plan your visit to Beijing. If you have further questions, feel free to ask!

     2024-11-07 at 11:38

     Reply
4. 

   Krüger 2024-11-17

   Die SilkPass-App für Android finde ich nicht. Kann man über die App (Android oder IOS) schon in Deutschland mit einer Deutschen Kreditkarte online aufladen, oder geht das erst wenn ich in China eingereist bin?

   2024-11-17 at 22:12

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     Ricky 2024-11-18

     Momentan ist die SilkPass-App noch nicht im Google Play Store verfügbar, sodass Android-Nutzer außerhalb Chinas die App möglicherweise nicht direkt herunterladen können. Zudem wird Google Wallet derzeit nicht unterstützt, wodurch Android-Nutzer im Ausland weder die NFC-Funktion der App für das Passieren von Schranken noch für das Aufladen per Handy nutzen können. Es ist daher wahrscheinlich, dass die vollständige Nutzung der SilkPass-Funktionen erst nach der Einreise nach China möglich ist.

     2024-11-18 at 10:35

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5. 

   Ilona 2024-11-18

   Hello, Ricky! Can i return the card and get back my 20rmb (the fee base) with the left unused money? and where can i do this? i have a very early departure in the night and all places (like subway stations) are already closed. can i return the card and money in the machine in the airport?

   2024-11-18 at 20:44

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     Ricky 2024-11-19

     Hi llona, unfortunately, the 20 RMB base fee is non-refundable. However, you can get back the unused balance from the card via a self-service machine. If you’re at the airport, there should be a machine available where you can do this.

     2024-11-19 at 18:19

     Reply
6. 

   Leong Yoke Ning 2024-11-22

   Beijing Pass
   1. Can it be used to book/buy high speed train ticket?
   2. Need to use it together with foreign passport and boarding high speed train, if above can be done?

   2024-11-22 at 17:40

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     Ricky 2024-11-22

     The BEIJING PASS is a versatile travel card introduced on July 31, 2024, specifically designed for foreign visitors in Beijing. It facilitates seamless access to various services, including public transportation and select tourist attractions.

     1. Can it be used to book/buy high-speed train tickets?

     No, the BEIJING PASS cannot be used to purchase high-speed train tickets. Its primary functions include:

     Public Transportation: Access to Beijing’s urban rail transit, suburban railways, buses, and street tour taxis.

     Tourist Attractions: Purchasing tickets at 30 renowned scenic areas in Beijing.

     Shopping: Making purchases at 20 authorized supermarkets in Beijing.

     For high-speed train tickets, you should use the official China Railway website (12306.cn) or other authorized platforms.
     12306

     2. Do I need to use it together with a foreign passport when boarding a high-speed train, if the above can be done?

     Since the BEIJING PASS cannot be used to purchase high-speed train tickets, it is not applicable for boarding high-speed trains. When traveling by high-speed train in China, foreign passengers are required to present their valid passport along with the train ticket. The ticket can be in electronic form or a printed version, depending on the purchase method.

     In summary, while the BEIJING PASS offers convenience for local transportation and certain services within Beijing, it does not extend to high-speed train travel. For high-speed train journeys, you’ll need to purchase tickets through the appropriate channels and carry your passport for identification.

     2024-11-22 at 18:38

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7. 

   Lau 2024-11-27

   Hi Ricky, can Beijing Pass be used in Chengde and Tianjin? Thanks

   2024-11-27 at 14:12

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     Ricky 2024-11-27

     Hi Lau, the BEIJING PASS is a multi-purpose travel card primarily designed for use within Beijing. It supports public transportation in over 300 cities across China, including Tianjin. However, its acceptance in Chengde is not explicitly mentioned.

     In Tianjin, you can use the BEIJING PASS for public transportation, such as buses and the subway. For Chengde, it’s advisable to verify its acceptance locally or consider alternative payment methods for transportation and attractions.

     2024-11-27 at 14:55

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8. 

   LanNP 2024-12-02

   How Beijing pass handle ticket discount like for students or seniors?

   2024-12-02 at 17:35

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     Ricky 2024-12-03

     The Beijing Pass can be used for public transportation, and each card is for individual use only. It works with the current transportation discount policies, but details about specific student or senior discounts aren’t listed online. You may need to show ID when using the card for any eligible discounts.

     2024-12-03 at 08:52

     Reply
9. 

   Ai Lee 2024-12-04

   Can I topup the card using cash at the self service center?

   2024-12-04 at 11:18

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     Ricky 2024-12-04

     Yes, you can top up the Beijing Pass using cash at the self-service centers located in subway stations and other designated areas in Beijing. Simply follow the instructions on the machine, and it will allow you to add credit using cash.

     2024-12-04 at 11:44

     Reply
10. 

    Rebecca 2024-12-11

    We are family of four (2 adults & two kids 10 & 14 yrs old) travelling to Beijing & Shanghai for 12 days. Then to Macau & Hong Kong for another 7 days. We are looking to purchase public transit cards/passes that can be used in both Beijing & Shanghai (ideally including Macau & Hong Kong too). Please provide your expertise! As far as I understand, there are 3 different kinds of Beijing Transportation Cards:

    Yitatong card:
    can ONLY be used in Beijing
    Deposit & remaining balance on the card can be refunded

    China T-Union Card:
    can be used in Beijing & others cities?
    Couldn’t find much information!!!

    Beijing Card:
    can be used in both Beijing & Shanghai
    Deposit cannot be refunded, but remaining balance can
    Where in Shanghai can I refund the remaining balance?

    As a family, do we need to purchase 4 individual card or can we purchase 2 adults & then swipe the transit card twice for our two kids?

    On top of the questions above, may I ask if we’ve booked entrance tickets for Forbidden City, do we still need to purchase tickets for Tiananmen Square? Cuz lots of conflicting information online.

    2024-12-11 at 03:03

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    • 

      Ricky 2024-12-11

      Hi Rebecca,

      Happy to help!

      Transit Cards Overview:

      Yikatong (Beijing Only):

      Works in Beijing buses, subways, and some taxis.
      You can get the deposit and any leftover balance refunded in Beijing.

      China T-Union Card:

      Can be used in Beijing and many other cities, including Shanghai.
      Information on refunds and deposits can vary, so it’s not always easy to find clear details.

      “Beijing Pass” (Beijing & Shanghai):

      Can be used in both cities.
      You cannot get the deposit back, but you can refund the remaining balance.
      In Shanghai, try major metro customer service centers for balance refunds.
      If the deposit is important to you, it might be easier to stick with city-specific cards.

      Cards for Each Family Member:
      Each person needs their own card. You can’t just swipe one card multiple times for different people on the same trip.

      Hong Kong & Macau:
      Unfortunately, you won’t find one card that works for Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau.

      Hong Kong uses the Octopus Card.

      Macau has its own system.
      You’ll need separate payment methods for each area.

      Tiananmen Square vs. Forbidden City Tickets:

      Tiananmen Square is free and open to the public, but you must reserve at least one day in advance to enter.
      The Forbidden City requires its own ticket.
      If you already have a Forbidden City booking, simply show your booking records or tickets, along with your passports, to the Tiananmen Square security guard, and you can visit Tiananmen Square on the same day.

      Hope this helps!

      2024-12-11 at 18:32

      Reply
11. 

    Tim Pearse 2025-02-06

    Hi
    Great site. Many tx. I want to spend a couple of weeks travelling around China on high speed trains. Is there any period – eg two weeks pass which will provide a discount on the silver fares?
    Cheers Tim

    2025-02-06 at 16:45

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      Ricky 2025-02-06

      Hi Tim,

      Glad you like the site—thanks! While China doesn’t have a traditional two-week rail pass, 12306 now offers a High-Speed Intercity Seasonal Pass. It’s valid for 90 days and allows 20 trips, with a full refund if unused within 30 days.

      The pass covers nearly 60 major routes, including:
      Beijing–Shanghai (North-South)
      Provincial key cities
      Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region
      Greater Bay Area
      Hainan Island Loop

      You can mix and match stations within the selected route! Check the 12306 app for details.

      Cheers,
      Ricky

      2025-02-06 at 18:08

      Reply
12. 

    Andy 2025-02-12

    Kann man die Karte wirklich auch in anderen Städten wie Xian, Chengdu, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen oder Shanghai nutzen?

    2025-02-12 at 13:04

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      Ricky 2025-02-12

      Ja, die BEIJING PASS kann in über 300 Städten in China für öffentliche Verkehrsmittel genutzt werden, einschließlich Xi’an, Chengdu, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen und Shanghai. Sie ermöglicht den Zugang zu Verkehrsmitteln wie Bussen, U-Bahnen, Straßenbahnen und Fähren in diesen Städten. Bitte beachten Sie jedoch, dass die Nutzung der BEIJING PASS außerhalb von Peking auf den öffentlichen Nahverkehr beschränkt ist und nicht für kommerzielle, kulturelle oder touristische Einrichtungen gilt. Es ist ratsam, sich vor Ort über die genauen Nutzungsbedingungen und Fahrpreispolitiken zu informieren, da diese je nach Stadt variieren können.

      2025-02-12 at 16:41

      Reply
13. 

    Marcelo Abreu 2025-02-16

    Great overview! The BEIJING PASS sounds incredibly convenient for exploring Beijing and beyond. Curious, though, do you think it offers enough perks, especially for travelers planning to stay in just a few cities? Also, is there a reliable place to check for current prices in China or other regions you mentioned? It could be useful for planning expenses while on the more lengthy trips.

    2025-02-16 at 14:22

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      Ricky 2025-02-17

      The BEIJING PASS is a versatile tool designed to enhance the travel experience in Beijing and across China. Here’s an overview of its benefits and considerations:

      Key Features of the BEIJING PASS:

      Comprehensive Transportation Access: The pass covers all transportation options in Beijing, including subways, buses, suburban trains, and taxis.

      Attraction Entry: It allows on-site ticket purchases at 30 popular parks and tourist attractions in Beijing, such as the Badaling Great Wall.

      Nationwide Usability: Beyond Beijing, the pass is accepted in over 300 cities across China, facilitating seamless travel for those exploring multiple destinations.

      Is the BEIJING PASS Right for You?

      For Single-City Travelers: If your itinerary is limited to Beijing, the pass offers convenience in transportation and attraction access within the city.

      For Multi-City Explorers: Travelers planning to visit multiple cities can benefit from the pass’s nationwide acceptance, simplifying transportation across various regions.

      Planning Your Budget:

      Understanding current prices in China can aid in effective budgeting:

      Accommodation: Mid-range hotels typically range from $70 to $120 per night, with higher costs in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai.

      Daily Expenses: Budget travelers might spend around $37 (¥270) per person per day, while mid-range travelers could expect approximately $93 (¥679) daily.

      Attractions and Entertainment: The average daily cost for visiting attractions and entertainment is about ¥123 (approximately $23).

      For checking current prices, you can use websites like TripAdvisor, Booking.com, or Expedia for accommodation and activities. For transportation, local city websites or official public transportation websites often have the most up-to-date fare information. Additionally, XE Currency Converter can help you keep track of exchange rates and conversion costs.

      2025-02-17 at 22:11

      Reply
14. 

    Ai Lee 2025-03-05

    Does Beijing Pass can be used for Daxing Airport Coach Beijing Railway Station Line bus?

    2025-03-05 at 08:28

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      Ricky 2025-03-05

      Yes, the BEIJING PASS (also known as the Yikatong Card) can be used to pay for the Daxing Airport Coach Beijing Railway Station Line bus.

      This card is a versatile transportation card accepted across various public transportation services in Beijing, including city buses, subways, trams, suburban railways, and airport express lines. ​

      To use the BEIJING PASS on the Daxing Airport Coach, simply tap your card upon boarding the bus.

      Ensure that your card has sufficient balance to cover the fare.

      You can recharge your BEIJING PASS at designated self-service kiosks and staffed service counters located at Beijing Capital International Airport, Beijing Daxing International Airport, Beijing’s subway stations, and Yikatong self-operated offices.

      2025-03-05 at 08:34

      Reply
15. 

    Edmund Tan 2025-03-10

    Generally, what percentage discount does the Beijing Pass offer for major attractions in Beijing?
    Please name a few attractions that I can enjoy this discount with the beijing pass. Thanks

    2025-03-10 at 12:38

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    • 

      Ricky 2025-03-11

      The Beijing Pass offers a variety of discounts for major attractions in Beijing. Generally, you can expect discounts ranging from 20% to 50% on various attractions and services.

      Here are a few attractions where you can enjoy discounts with the Beijing Pass:

      Summer Palace (颐和园): A beautiful imperial garden and palace.

      Temple of Heaven (天坛公园): A historic complex of religious buildings.

      Beihai Park (北海公园): A large public park with a lake and historic structures.

      Beijing Zoo (北京动物园): Home to a wide variety of animals, including giant pandas.

      Great Wall at Badaling (八达岭长城): One of the most famous and well-preserved sections of the Great Wall.

      Jingshan Park (景山公园): A scenic park with a hill offering panoramic views of the city.

      Ming Tombs (明十三陵): A collection of mausoleums built by the emperors of the Ming dynasty.

      These are just a few examples, and there are many more attractions where you can use the Beijing Pass to enjoy discounts. Check the official Beijing Pass website for the latest attractions, validity periods, and terms, as inclusions may change. Enjoy your time exploring Beijing!

      2025-03-11 at 07:19

      Reply
16. 

    Ai Lee 2025-03-11

    Hi sorry to ask this question here as i can’t find the related topic for it except for shanghai show. Want to know how to purchase discount tickets for Red theatre acrobatic show as there are many websites selling them. Is it possible to buy at the theatre on the day in cash?

    2025-03-11 at 07:47

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    • 

      Rick 2025-03-13

      Thank you for your message—no problem at all, I’m happy to help!

      Yes, there are many websites selling tickets for the Red Theatre Acrobatic Show, but it can be difficult to tell which ones are reliable. I recommend booking through a trusted platform like Viator, which is safe and easy to use. You can check it out here: https://www.viator.com/tours/Beijing/Red-Theatre-Kung-Fu-Show-Ticket-with-Hotel-Transfer/d321-67316P208?pid=P00095704&mcid=42383&medium=link

      Alternatively, it’s also possible to buy tickets directly at the theatre on the day in cash, but please note that good seats may sell out quickly, especially during busy travel seasons. If you’d like a better selection and peace of mind, it’s best to book in advance.

      2025-03-13 at 07:25

      Reply
17. 

    Ольга 2025-05-13

    Добрый день! Не могу найти список из 300 городов для карты пекин пасс. Харбин входит в этот список? Если да, то где в Харбине можно пополнить карту пекин пасс? Спасибо

    2025-05-13 at 22:33

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18. 

    Alex 2025-07-22

    Is the beijing pass also valid in hangzhou , meinst for the public transportation like Subway. Thanks

    2025-07-22 at 00:49

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    • 

      Ricky 2025-07-22

      Yes. The Beijing Pass—especially the version marked with “China T-Union”—is designed to work across 300+ cities in China, including Hangzhou. So yes, if your card is the Beijing Hutong Card or any variant that supports China T-Union, you should be able to use it on Hangzhou’s subway and buses.

      Here’s what to check:

      Look for the China T-Union logo on your card.

      Make sure it’s a physical card or an e-card that supports intercity use.

      You may need to top up the card in Beijing, as some cities only allow recharging at local service centers.

      ✔️ Practical tips for use
      Top-up flexibility: You can recharge the card in Beijing (at subway counters or via apps like SilkPass) and reuse it in Hangzhou without issues. Top-ups in Hangzhou might be limited to stops within the local T‑Union network, but your balance remains usable nationwide

      Single-user card: Each BEIJING PASS is personal—only one person per tap

      Fare policies: Local fare rules of Hangzhou apply. That means you pay the standard metro and bus fares set by Hangzhou’s transit system—your BEIJING PASS just acts as the payment method.

      Bottom line: You can confidently use your BEIJING PASS in Hangzhou for metro and bus travel—dial up the local fare system and go. Just be sure to have enough balance loaded before use, and you’re set!

      2025-07-22 at 07:47

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        Alex 2025-07-23

        So it means that the beijing pass can only be recharged in beijing . BTW, and the beijing card need to have china t Union Logo. But I thought that there is only one Version of beijing pass for foreigners

        2025-07-23 at 16:12

        Reply
19. 

    Laurence 2025-08-16

    Hello Ricky,

    One quick question regarding the means of payment to get a Beijing pass but more broadly to pay in Beijing. Can I use international cards, such as visa or mastercard, at most places? I read everything and its opposite! What about cash?
    And if I pay a Beijing pass with a mastercard for ex., will I get refund of the unused balance at PEK on this used credit card or by cash?

    Many thanks by advance for your advices!
    Laurence

    2025-08-16 at 21:26

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    • 

      Ricky 2025-08-20

      Hi Laurence,

      Great question—happy to help! Here’s the quick guide:

      Cards (Visa/Mastercard): Big hotels, malls, and major sights usually accept foreign cards. For the widest acceptance (taxis, small shops, ticket windows), link your Visa/Mastercard to Alipay or WeChat Pay—both now support international cards and work almost everywhere.

      Cash (RMB): Cash is still legal tender and should be accepted; I recommend carrying ¥200–500 in small notes for street food, small vendors, or places that can’t process cards. (Authorities have reminded businesses not to refuse cash.)

      BEIJING PASS (the visitor transit card):

      You can refund any unused balance at staffed Beijing Subway counters, including the Capital Airport Express stations at T2 and T3. The card cost (¥20) is a purchase price (not a deposit) and isn’t refundable; only the remaining balance is. Refunds at counters are typically issued in RMB cash.

      If you use the NFC/e-card version via the official app, the refund is processed back to the linked account after you apply in-app (usually within a few working days).

      My tip: Set up Alipay/WeChat Pay with your card before you arrive, keep a little cash for backups, and you’ll be set. If you’d like, I can send step-by-step setup instructions.

      2025-08-20 at 09:33

      Reply
20. 

    Laurence 2025-08-21

    Great, thanks Ricky, much appreciated!

    2025-08-21 at 23:21

    Reply
21. 

    ANASTASIIA 2025-10-20

    In October 2025, the Beijing Pass card was not accepted on public transportation in Datong, Luoyang, and Chengdu. Metro station staff looked at the card with confusion. I’m going to check in other cities.

    2025-10-20 at 06:43

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    • 

      Ricky 2025-10-20

      hanks for sharing that update — that’s really useful information!

      Yes, as of October 2025, the Beijing Pass (Yikatong) is still not accepted in most other cities like Datong, Luoyang, and Chengdu. Each city operates its own local transit card system, so the Beijing card usually won’t work unless the station shows the “交通联合” (China Transit Union) logo.

      If you’re checking in other cities, that logo is the key indicator — only cards or apps with that symbol are valid nationwide.

      2025-10-20 at 15:24

      Reply
22. 

    Alex 2025-11-09

    Hello, can we recharge the Beijing card in Shanghai and Suzhou? If yes, where? Any subway stations? Thanks

    2025-11-09 at 18:38

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    • 

      Ricky 2025-11-09

      No, the Beijing Pass card cannot be recharged in Shanghai or Suzhou. Recharge services are only available within Beijing.

      Here’s a breakdown of what’s currently supported:

      Recharge Locations for Beijing Pass
      Recharge is only available in Beijing, specifically at:

      Beijing Subway stations: via manned service windows or self-service machines.

      Designated service counters: such as those at Beijing Capital International Airport, Daxing International Airport, and major transit hubs like Beijing Station, Beijing South Station, and West Station.

      City service centers: including the Beijing Municipal Transportation Card Service Halls at Xidan and Dongzhimen.

      Not Available Outside Beijing
      Shanghai and Suzhou do not currently support recharge or usage of the Beijing Pass card.

      The card is designed for use in Beijing’s public transport and select commercial/tourism venues. While it supports nationwide transport in theory, recharge and full functionality are limited to authorized Beijing locations.

      If you’re traveling through Shanghai or Suzhou and need a local transport card, I recommend getting the Shanghai Public Transport Card or Suzhou Tong Card, which are widely supported in their respective cities.

      2025-11-09 at 18:57

      Reply
      • 

        Alex 2025-11-09

        Richy, even beijing pass yitongka can not be uses in Shanghai and Suzhou

        2025-11-09 at 19:48

        Reply

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