Intercity Buses
China’s intercity bus network is vast. You could probably travel to almost any part of the country exclusively using this system. It is generally very good, the buses almost always depart on time, there is plenty of assistance and locals very happy to help. The tickets are extremely good value. However, the buses are always very crowded and noisy and no part of the system is in English so it can be difficult to figure out. There is also no way for foreigners to book tickets online so you often have to go to the station the day before your journey to guarantee getting a seat.
For my description of the full range of transport options in China click here.
Booking your Ticket
With no online system there is only one way to do this, you go up to the ticket counter and ask. When you do you should either be certain that you are pronouncing the name of your destination correctly or have written down the name in Chinese characters on a piece of paper you can hand over. Be warned, if your pronunciation is poor (and it will be) they may not have the faintest idea where you mean, even if it seems obvious to you.
You will almost always need your passport except for short journeys. I would recommend always taking it with you if you intend to take an intercity bus.
The ticket will come on a piece of paper with no English. I have displayed and explained an example below (in progress).
The Bus Station
Once you have your ticket you go through the security and wait for your bus to be called. I have written about the security in Chinese stations here.
You will be called 10-15 minutes before your departure but is rarely in English so listen out for the name of your destination. Alternatively you can ask at the ticket checkpoints and the staff, who are almost always helpful. They will either wave you back to your waiting area and gesture over to you when it is time for your bus, or swipe you through and point the way.
When boarding if you are in any doubt about which bus is yours check the characters for your destination which will usually be displayed in the bus’s windscreen. You can also check the license plate which is often shown on your ticket or ask locals who will aim you at the right bus.
The Buses Themselves
Most intercity buses are standard coaches, relatively comfortable but quite crowded. On some less used routes they will be minibuses which are much more cramped and bumpier.
If you are taking an overnight bus there is a chance that you will get a proper sleeper coach with bunk beds. I find these to be very comfortable and would highly recommend them however I do not know any way to tell in advance if it will be this type of bus.
Last Updated: January 2020
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