Public transport in Beijing seems a lot more stressful than it actually is, and is a great way to save money.

    A public transport "Superpass" (yikatong) may help save your money and time buying individual tickets. Three types of prepaid superpasses are now available:

    Adults' card For buses numbered from 1 to 499, there is a flat rate fare of RMB 0.4; and for these numbered from 601 to 899, 40% of the normal ticket prices. For those numbered from 900, 80% of the normal ticket prices. Subways, no discount. No limit on duration.

    Students' card For buses numbered from 1 to 499, there is a flat rate fare of RMB 0.2; and for these numbered from 601 to 899, 20% of the normal ticket prices. For those numbered from 900, 80% of the normal ticket prices. Subways, no discount. No limit on duration.

    Limited duration bus cards are very handy for visitors: a 3-day card (maximum 18 rides) costs RMB 10; a 7-day card (maximum 42 rides) costs RMB 20; and a 15-day card (maximum 90 rides) cost RMB 40.

    You can buy a superpass at China Post Offices, bus terminals, subway stations or CITIC Bank branches.

    There is a refundable RMB 20 deposit per card. To get back your deposit , visit one of the following places: Bus 328 terminal at Andingmen Xi, Bus 15 terminal at Beijing Zoo, and Bus 335 terminal at Fuchengmen.