How to Check Real-time Bus/Subway Arrival Information in China?

In China, checking real-time bus and subway arrival information is very convenient, mainly through the following tools and methods:

1. Using Mobile Map Apps

The following apps all support switching between Chinese and English, making them suitable for foreign tourists:

1. Amap (高德地图)
2. Function: Covers real-time bus/subway information for over 300 cities nationwide, including arrival times, transfer routes, and congestion tips.
3. Usage Method:
   1. After downloading, switch to the English interface (Settings → Language → English).
   2. Input your destination, choose "Bus/Subway" route, and the system will automatically display the real-time vehicle location and estimated arrival time.

4. Note: Location permission needs to be enabled, and offline maps can be downloaded.

5. Baidu Map (百度地图)

6. Function: Real-time updates on bus/subway dynamics, providing multi-language navigation (including English).
7. Usage Method:
   1. Search for the line or station name, click "Real-time Bus" to check the vehicle location.
   2. Subway queries can switch to "Subway Map" mode to check the operation status of each line.
8. Advantage: Supports binding Alipay/WeChat Pay for easy purchase of electronic transportation cards.

2. Official City Transportation APPs

Some large cities have dedicated applications with more precise functions:

1. Beijing: Beijing Yikatong (北京一卡通)
2. Can query real-time bus arrivals, subway congestion, and supports NFC phone top-ups.

3. English interface needs to be manually switched (some functions may only be available in Chinese).

4. Shanghai: Shanghai Metro (Metro大都会)

5. Provides real-time subway arrivals, first/last train times, and exit navigation.

6. Supports Alipay binding for QR code entry.

7. Guangzhou: Guangzhou Metro Official APP

8. Real-time displays delay announcements and carriage congestion levels for each line.

3. WeChat/Alipay Mini Programs

No need to download additional applications, suitable for short-term visitors:

1. WeChat Mini Program
2. Search for "Car Arrives" or "Tencent Real-time Bus," input the line name to query.

3. Some cities support English interfaces (such as Beijing, Shanghai).

4. Alipay Mini Program

5. In the "Travel" section, select the city, click "Real-time Bus" or "Subway Query."
6. Supports binding foreign credit cards (some functions require a Chinese mobile phone number verification).

4. Electronic Screens at Subway/Bus Stops

• Subway Stations: All line electronic displays will mark the next train arrival time in both Chinese and English.
• Bus Stops: Smart stop signs in first-tier cities (such as Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen) will show real-time vehicle locations.

5. Other Useful Tools

1. Google Maps: Partial functionality is restricted within China; it is recommended to prioritize local map applications.
2. Station Announcements: There will be bilingual announcements before subway arrivals.
3. Hotel/Airport Information Desks: Paper traffic guides can be obtained or assistance provided for queries.

Precautions

1. Network Connection: It is recommended to purchase a local SIM card in China (such as China Mobile/Unicom) or activate international roaming to ensure real-time data updates.
2. Language Issues: If the application interface is in Chinese, use the mobile screenshot translation function (such as Google Translate).
3. Peak Hour Errors: There may be a 1-3 minute delay in arrival times during peak hours; it is suggested to combine this with subway station announcements for comprehensive judgment.
4. Last Subway Train: The last train times vary by line, so confirm them in advance via the app to avoid being stranded.