MileHacker Logo
Getting Around Zhangjiakou

Getting Around Zhangjiakou

Zhangjiakou Hebei, China Travel Guide

Public Transportation Overview

Zhangjiakou's public transit system mainly consists of an extensive public bus network. There is currently no metro or tram system within the city. The bus routes cover the urban core and connect to adjacent districts, making it an affordable and practical way to get around.

Bus routes crisscross the city, connecting major residential, commercial, and tourist areas. Important hubs include Zhangjiakou Railway Station, Zhangjiakou South Bus Station, plus retail districts.

Aspects of Bus Travel

  • Extensive bus network as main transit.
  • Affordable fares, typically CNY 1-3 per ride.
  • Generally operates from 6:A.M. TO 9:00-10:00 PM.
  • Route maps and real-time tracking via Baidu Maps navigation or Amap.

Ticketing & Fares

Fares are affordable (CNY 1-3). Payment by exact cash, public transport card, or mobile payment (WeChat Pay/Alipay).

Accessibility Information

Public buses may have limited accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges. Newer buses might offer slightly better features.

Efficient Navigation

Use The Baidu maps app or Amap for routes and real-time tracking. Prepare payment before boarding. Avoid rush hours (7:30-9:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM).

Public Bus Advantages

Cost-Effective & Authentic
  • Economical way to travel within the city.
  • Authentic experience, connecting with local life.
  • Directly accesses local areas and attractions.
Practicality
  • Mobile apps for route planning and real-time updates.
  • Long operating hours for daily travel.
  • Good for covering short to medium distances efficiently.

Ticketing & Payment Summary

Fares

CNY 1-3 per ride.

Cash

Exact change needed.

Card

Public transport card available.

Mobile

WeChat Pay/Alipay QR code scan.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing apps provide convenient and flexible options, especially for longer distances or when carrying luggage.

Licensed Taxi Information

  • Identification: Green or blue, taxi sign, meter, driver ID.
  • Hailing: On street, at designated stands (stations, hotels).
  • Fares: Starting fare CNY 7-10, then CNY 1.6-2.4/km.
  • Payment: Cash, WeChat Pay, Alipay (meter use is important).

Ride-Sharing Apps Didi Chuxing

  • Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行) is the dominant platform.
  • Usage: Requires a Chinese phone number for registration.
  • Payment: Link to WeChat Pay or Alipay account.
  • English interface is available.

Safety Considerations & Arrangements

  • Taxis: Generally safe, driver use of meter is important.
  • Didi: Generally safe, journey tracked in-app, share trip details.
  • Avoid unlicensed cabs ("black cabs") due to unregulated prices and safety risks.
  • Airport/Station Taxi: Readily available at designated taxi stands.
  • Follow official signs to avoid unauthorized drivers.
  • Have your destination written in Chinese or on a map app to communicate effectively.

Car Rental Platforms

Local Drivers

For traveling by car, consider hiring a car with a local driver through tour operators.

International Options

While self-driving is restricted, explore options like DiscoverCars.com for driver services in other places.

Book in Advance

Pre-arrange car services to ensure availability and smooth logistics.

Rental Options Not Self-Drive

Self-driving for tourists is generally not feasible due to license requirements, but other rental options exist.

Car Rental with driver

  • Foreign driver's licenses not recognized; IDP not valid.
  • Common practice: Rent a car with a local driver.
  • Arrange through travel agencies, major hotels, or tour operators.
  • Provides convenience and expertise on local roads and traffic.

Bicycle Rentals & Sharing

  • Bicycle sharing programs (Meituan Bike, Hello Bike) operate.
  • Sharing apps typically require of Chinese origin ID; passport registration may be possible.
  • Traditional bicycle rentals from guesthouses or specialized shops are available.
  • Popular for scenic routes like Grassland Sky Path or mountain biking trails.

Important Rental Notes

Motorcycle & Scooter

Rentals are not common or recommended for tourists due to traffic and safety.

Avoid for safety.

Specialty Vehicles

Tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not typically found or used for tourist transport.

Not available.

Driving Laws

China has firm driving laws and rigorous enforcement.

Be aware of rules.

Road Conditions and Parking

Road Conditions
  • Major highways are generally good.
  • Local roads in rural/mountainous areas can be less developed.
  • Winter conditions (snow, ice) make driving challenging.
Parking & Driving Culture
  • Parking can be challenging in central urban areas and popular attractions.
  • Driving habits and adherence to traffic rules differ.
  • Public transport or hiring a driver is the most practical approach.

Important Rental Considerations

  • Self-driving is NOT an option for most tourists.
  • Rely on knowledge of the local area for journeys by automobile.
  • Motorcycle/scooter rentals are unsafe for tourists.
  • Bicycle sharing apps might need Chinese ID/payment setup.
  • Roads can be different; cold-weather travel needs extra caution.
  • Traffic behavior is different from Western norms.
  • Public transport/Didi are hassle-free alternatives.
  • Confirm parking availability at destinations.

Walking and Cycling

Pedestrian-friendly areas and cycling routes offer ways to experience the city and its surroundings.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • City Center: Parks (People's Park, East Garden) and tourist zones (Dajing Gate).
  • Chongli: Well-maintained pedestrian areas in resort villages.
  • Xuanhua Ancient City: Charming streets and ancient city walls.
  • Walking Tours: Self-guided using The Baidu maps app/Amap, or guided tours from hotels/agencies.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

  • Bike Lanes: Not widespread outside specific park areas.
  • Safety: Wear a helmet, be aware of surroundings and traffic.
  • Popular Routes: Grassland Sky Road (scenic), Chongli (mountain biking trails in summer).
  • No-Go Areas: Avoid major highways, poorly lit/unfamiliar areas at night.

Tour Buses

Organized tour buses are available for particular sights like Great Wall sections or Chongli ski resorts. Book through hotels or from locals agencies.

Cable Cars & Chairlifts

Integral to Chongli ski resorts in winter, transport skiers and snowboarders. Some operate in summer for scenic mountain views.

Accessibility Services

Limited infrastructure outside newer buildings. Pre-planning and arranging assistance (e.g., through hotels) are important for mobility needs.

Specialized Transportation Notes

Unique Transport
  • Boat taxis and water transportation are not applicable to Zhangjiakou.
  • The city is inland and lacks major navigable waterways.
  • No other unique funiculars or highly specialized local transport exist.
Accessibility Planning
  • Thorough pre-planning for mobility needs is important.
  • High-speed rail terminals and newer Chongli destinations are generally more accessible.
  • Communicate requirements clearly when booking accommodations and tours.

Helpful Tip

For travelers with mobility needs, communicate your requirements clearly when booking lodging and excursions.

Confirm that facilities and transportation options can accommodate you before committing to plans.

← Previous
How to Get to Zhangjiakou
← Back to Zhangjiakou
Next →
Where to Stay in Zhangjiakou

Next Up: Where to Stay in Zhangjiakou. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation

Continue to Where to Stay in Zhangjiakou
Getting Around Zhangjiakou. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental