How to Get Around Beijing For First-Timers: A Muslim-Friendly Transport Guide

If you're a traveller planning a trip to Beijing, don’t worry about getting lost or confused in this massive city. Beijing may be sprawling, but with its efficient transport options, getting around the capital of China is easier than you think. Whether you prefer walking, cycling, or taking the subway, Beijing has a transport option for everyone. Here’s a handy guide to navigating this exciting metropolis, including helpful tips tailored for Muslim travellers.

Also read: Can You Really Pay with Your Hand in China? Here’s How It Works

Navigating Beijing on Foot

While Beijing isn’t exactly a pedestrian-friendly city in the sense of short walks, it’s packed with areas that are perfect for exploring on foot. From the winding alleys of the hutongs to the iconic Tiananmen Square, there’s a real charm in wandering through the heart of the city.

Wander through these narrow lanes and lose yourself to experience local life up close. To make the most of this, consider signing up for a walking tour with a local guide to dive deeper into Beijing’s history and culture.

HalalZilla tip: Since Google Maps isn’t accessible in China, you might want to rely on Apple Maps or Baidu Maps to navigate through Beijing’s streets. For Muslim travellers, apps like Muslim Pro or HalalTrip can also help locate nearby mosques and halal eateries.

Getting Around Beijing by Subway

For a fast and efficient way to travel, Beijing’s subway system is the way to go. With 27 lines, it’s the second-largest subway network in the world, connecting you to major tourist attractions like the Forbidden City and both airports.

The fares are affordable, starting from just ¥3 (about US$0.41), and you’ll get where you need to go in no time. Expect crowds, especially during rush hour, and double-check the exits so you don’t get lost in the maze of tunnels.

HalalZilla tip: The subway also connects to areas like Niujie (Ox Street), home to the largest Muslim community in Beijing. This district houses the famous Niujie Mosque and numerous halal restaurants, making it worth a stop for Muslim travellers.

Exploring Beijing on Two Wheels

If you’re keen on a more scenic and eco-friendly way to explore Beijing, biking is a great option. The city boasts an expansive network of dedicated bike lanes, making it super bike-friendly.

You can take advantage of bike-sharing services like Didi Bike or Hellobike, which are perfect for short trips around the city. You’ll find bikes available for rent at various spots, and it’s a fun way to explore Beijing’s parks, lakes, and vibrant neighbourhoods.

HalalZilla tip: Muslim-friendly destinations like the Beijing Muslim Quarter or scenic areas near prayer-friendly facilities are often accessible by bike, especially if you want to avoid traffic or crowded subways.

Taking Taxis or Ride-Sharing Services

If you prefer the comfort of a car, taxis and rideshare services like Didi are affordable options. However, don’t forget that Beijing is notorious for its traffic jams, so be prepared for some delays. Taxis have a fixed fare of ¥13 (about US$1.77) for the first 3km, and rates increase slightly after 11pm. If you’re using Didi (the local version of Uber), it’s slightly cheaper, and you can easily book a ride with your smartphone.

HalalZilla tip: For easier communication, it’s best to have your destination written in Chinese characters, as most drivers don’t speak English. Apps like Halal Navi or Muslim Pro can also help you pin halal dining spots or mosques to show your driver.

Buses: The Local Way to See Beijing

For a more local experience, hop on one of Beijing’s buses. They’re cheap, with fares starting from just ¥2 (about US$0.27), and you get to see more of the city than you would on the subway. The sightseeing buses, in particular, are a great way to explore top attractions like the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven while learning a bit about the city along the way. While buses may be slower than the subway, they’re a fantastic way to relax and take in the surroundings.

HalalZilla tip: The sightseeing buses (routes 1 and 2) follow a loop around major sites, and they have multilingual announcements, making it easy for non-Chinese speakers to enjoy the ride. Look out for stops near mosques like Dongsi Mosque or Niujie Mosque for prayer breaks.

Rickshaws: A Unique, Traditional Experience

For a quirky way to explore Beijing, try a rickshaw ride. These iconic, human-powered vehicles are still used to ferry visitors around the ancient streets of Houhai Lake and through the maze of hutongs.

It’s a fantastic way to experience the old-world charm of Beijing, and a ride typically lasts about an hour. While rickshaws aren’t the fastest mode of transport, they definitely provide a unique, touristy experience.

HalalZilla tip: Be sure to agree on the price before hopping in, as rickshaw fares can vary depending on the distance and the driver. If you’re on a Muslim heritage trail, you can ask to pass by Islamic sites and historical Muslim neighbourhoods.

Car with Driver: Perfect for Day Trips

If you’re planning a day trip outside the city, say, to the Great Wall of China or Summer Palace, you may want to consider hiring a car with a driver. Since international driving permits aren’t valid in China, renting a car is usually not an option for foreign visitors.

But hiring a private car with a driver is a great alternative, and it’s roughly the same price as renting a car. This option allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey without having to navigate the roads yourself.

HalalZilla tip: If you plan to travel during prayer times, let your driver know in advance to stop near mosques or suitable rest areas. Also, pack your own halal snacks or meals in case food options are limited on the road.

Also read: Halal Food in Beijing: 18 Places to Visit When You’re Hungry

Navigating Beijing Made Easy (and Muslim-Friendly!)

With so many transportation options available, getting around Beijing is easier than you might think. Whether you’re hopping on the subway, renting a bike, or taking a leisurely rickshaw ride, there’s a way to explore Beijing that suits your style and budget.

For Muslim travellers, navigating Beijing comes with additional comforts: Halal eateries, accessible mosques, and apps to guide your way. While it’s a large and bustling city, Beijing offers plenty of ways to experience its culture and beauty without getting overwhelmed. Just plan ahead, embrace the local modes of transport, and you’ll be navigating China’s vibrant capital like a pro in no time!