From plane
to metro.
You only need to remember five signs. Save this page before you fly and follow the route from left to right.
Keep your passport, first hotel address and onward details together. Screenshot the hotel name and address in Chinese.
See it once.
Then follow the signs.
This illustration is the simple version. The real airport photos below show what the important places look like.
China Immigration
After leaving the aircraft, stay on the International Arrivals route. Do not follow Transfer unless you are connecting without entering China.
- Use the lane marked Foreigners.
- Have your passport and visa or entry eligibility ready.
- If directed, complete fingerprint collection before the desk.
- Answer simple questions about your hotel and trip.
Arrival card
Foreign visitors can submit arrival information through the official NIA service before travel. If you have not done it, follow the QR code or form instructions at the airport.
Collect. Choose. Exit.
After passport control, check the screen for your flight and collect checked luggage. Then choose the correct customs channel:
CLAIM↓CUSTOMS↓ARRIVALS HALL
Find the metro
Once you enter the public arrivals hall, look up—not down. Overhead signs usually point to Metro, Airport Express, Rail Transit or a train symbol.
- 1Confirm your airport and terminal.
- 2Check the line, direction and last train.
- 3Buy a ticket or ask the staffed service desk.
- 4Keep the hotel’s Chinese address ready.
Which train?
Use this as a starting point, then confirm the live route and last departure on the day you arrive.
Airport layouts, entry requirements and train times can change. Recheck these official pages shortly before travel.