How can I use international bank cards across the Beijing subway?

Since June 16, 2025, Beijing has accepted contactless international MasterCard and Visa cards across its entire subway network. You can tap your cards at any station gate for automatic fare calculation matching local rates.

This service covers all 27 subway lines (836 km, 490 stations), including airport lines and the Suburban Railway S2 Line. Over 20,000 facilities were upgraded to support this feature, adding to existing UnionPay and QR code payments to improve tourist convenience.

(Data updated as of November 2025)