When I heard China‘s metro system is efficient and incredibly easy to navigate, so I decided to use it as my main way of getting around. During my work trip to Nanning, I realized that since I was traveling solo, it was the perfect chance to explore the city like a local.
Nanning Metro Experience
Even though the route to the metro gantry is very long, but along the way, there are a lot of stores and eatries just like a mini shopping mall.
My overall experience in Nanning was surprisingly impressive and enjoyable in many ways. It felt completely different from what I remembered from visiting China more than 10 years ago.
Even though the walk to the metro gantry can sometimes be quite long, the journey never feels boring because there are plenty of shops, convenience stores, and eateries along the way. It’s very busy. I almost feel like I’m walking through a shopping mall underground.
The direction signs throughout the stations are also extremely clear and easy to follow, which make it almost impossible to get lost even for first-time visitors.
The China metro experience reminded me of our Singapore MRT system, but I honestly found their station information systems to be even more informative and advanced.
For example, the station displays can show which train cabins are more crowded and which ones are less crowded, allowing passengers to choose where they want to board more comfortably. They also indicate which cabin door is closest to the escalator or station exit, helping us to save time and avoid unnecessary walking once we reached our destination. I wish Singapore has this because I always get confused on which escalator I should take if I’m not familiar with that station.
Why I Use Alipay
Even though I can read Chinese, I still highly recommend using Alipay, especially for foreigners visiting China. One of the biggest advantages is, it has built-in translation feature, which makes navigating menus, payments, and transportation much more user-friendly. On top of that, Alipay can also be used directly as a China metro card, so there’s really no need to download another separate app and waste extra storage space on your phone.
Setting Up China Metro Card Using Alipay
Before setting up your China metro card in Alipay, make sure you have already linked your credit card or debit card to the app. It’s important to ensure your payment method is properly set up and working before proceeding, as the metro system charges fares directly through Alipay.
Step 1: Go To Transport
Step 2: Select The City You Are Going To
Step 3: Choose Metro
Step 5：Activate the card
For safest and smooth experience, always choose the basic Metro card. Until you know what you are doing.
Step 6: Agree The T&C and Activate The Card
Step 7: Click Use Now
And they will generate a QR code for you to use.
Using the China metro with Alipay is very straightforward. You simply scan the QR code before entering and again when exiting the station gates. The fare will then be automatically deducted from your linked payment method.
Tips About Using Metro Card
- Almost all China metro systems in mainland China have compulsory security checks. Every passenger is required to pass through an X-ray screening before reaching the gantry gates. So, if you are carrying a backpack or multiple bags, it’s a good idea to prepare them in advance before arriving at the security checkpoint to make your travel process smoother and faster.
- I highly recommend downloading either Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode Maps). Amap has an English version, which makes it convenient for international travelers. Personally, I prefer using Baidu Maps. One thing I really love is how it tells you which train cabin door to board so you will end up closest to the escalator or station exit when you arrive.
Conclusion
Honestly, I felt that riding the metro was one of the best ways to truly experience the city. Seeing everyday life, discovering different neighborhoods, and understanding the local life beyond the usual tourist spots.
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