By Subway in Beijing

With street-level traffic getting more crazed by the minute, Beijing's quick and efficient subway system is an excellent way to get about town. After operating for years with only two lines, the network is growing exponentially—seven new lines are under construction, and a couple more are being planned.

At this writing, there are four lines open. Line 1 (red) runs east-west under Chang'an Jie, crossing through the heart of the city. The circle line, or Line 2 (blue), runs roughly under the Second Ring Road. There are interchange stations between lines 1 and 2 at Fuxingmen and Jianguomen. The two remaining lines are mainly used by commuters and are less useful for sightseeing. The Batong Line extends Line 1 eastward, whereas Line 13 loops north off Line 2. The first north-south line, Line 5, is due to open in mid-2007, and two other lines are scheduled to open in time for the 2008 Olympics.

Subway stations are marked by blue signs with a "D" (for di tie, or subway) in a circle. Signs are not always obvious, so be prepared to hunt around for entrances or ask directions; Di tie zhan zai nar? (Where's the subway station?) is a useful phrase to remember.

Stations are usually clean and safe, as are trains. Navigating the subway is very straightforward: station names are clearly displayed in Chinese and pinyin, and there are maps in each station. Once on board, each stop is clearly announced on a loudspeaker.