How to Check Real-Time Bus/Subway Arrival Information?

Checking real-time bus and subway arrival information in China is very convenient. Below is a detailed guide tailored for foreign tourists:

1. Common Tools and Platforms

1. Amap (高德地图) or Baidu Map (百度地图)
2. Function: Covers real-time bus and subway information for almost all cities nationwide. Supports route planning, arrival time prediction, transfer options, etc.

3. How to Use:

   1. Download the app (supports iOS/Android; some functions require switching to the Chinese interface, which can be assisted by translation tools).
   2. Input your starting point and destination, then select the "Bus/Subway" mode.
   3. The system will display recommended routes, real-time arrival times, vehicle congestion levels, costs, etc.
   4. Click on specific lines to view the real-time location of vehicles (e.g., "2 stops away from this station").

4. Language Support: The app defaults to Chinese, but internal translation or screenshot translation tools can assist usage.

5. WeChat/Alipay Mini Programs

6. Recommended Mini Programs:
   • "Che Lai Le" (车来了): Specializes in real-time bus queries, covering over 300 cities.
   • "Metro Metropolis" (Metro大都会): Official tool for Shanghai Metro; some other cities also have dedicated mini programs.

7. How to Use:

   1. Open WeChat or Alipay and search for the mini program name.
   2. Authorize location or manually select the city.
   3. Input the line or station name to view real-time arrival information.

8. Subway Pass (地铁通 App)

9. Function: Focuses on querying subway lines nationwide, supporting more than 45 cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.
10. Advantage: Simple interface providing subway line maps, first/last train times, transfer guidance, and real-time arrival reminders.

2. Other Practical Methods

1. Electronic Displays at Bus Stops
2. Most cities in China have electronic displays installed at bus stops showing the arrival time of the next bus.

3. Note: Some smaller cities or suburban areas may not be covered.

4. Information Screens Inside Subway Stations

5. Electronic screens on subway platforms display the arrival time of the next train (accurate to the minute). Some cities (like Beijing and Shanghai) offer English displays.

6. Local Bus Group Websites/Apps

7. For example:
   • Beijing: "Beijing Bus Group" website or "Beijing Yikatong" app.
   • Shanghai: "Shanghai Release" WeChat official account or "Shanghai Metro" app.
8. Suitable for: In-depth queries about customized information for specific cities (such as temporary adjustment notices).

3. Operational Precautions

1. Internet Requirement: Real-time queries require internet access. It is recommended to purchase a local Chinese phone card (such as China Mobile/Unicom) or activate international roaming in advance.
2. Language Barrier: If the app does not have an English version, you can use the "screen translation" function on your phone (such as Google Translate’s live camera translation).
3. Payment Binding: Some apps require binding with Alipay/WeChat Pay to access full features. It is recommended to set this up in advance (see China Electronic Payment Guide).
4. Peak Hour Errors: Morning and evening rush hours may cause delays in arrival times due to traffic congestion. It is recommended to allow for flexible timing.

4. Recommended Tool Comparison

5. Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Is a Chinese phone number required for registration?
  A: Some apps (like Amap) require phone number registration, but international numbers or email addresses can be used as alternatives.

• Q: How to save frequently used routes?
  A: Save routes in Amap/Baidu Map or add "frequent routes" in mini programs.

• Q: How to check night buses?
  A: Select the "night bus" filter in map apps or directly search for the line number (e.g., "Beijing Night Line 1").