Life in Qingdao can get expensive when you are taking a taxi. For those that would like to be frugal ; take the bus! It is a great experience. The money saved per year can equal a trip to Thailand for two. Taking the bus is the only time I felt like part of the group in China. Hanging out with 50 or more Chinese people and striking conversations left and right is an experience of a lifetime. It's a great way to meet people and practise your Chinese. The public bus can take you everywhere and help you know the city like a local.
Bus Taking Tips:1. Before starting your journey on any bus line familiarize yourself with its route. Besides using a Qingdao Tourist Map found at most newspaper stands, you can also type in the bus line number into our search engine and get a list of landmarks near the bus line stops you want to take.
2. Just take the bus line as often as you can and you will become an expert in no time. Give your self some extra time if have to be somewhere on time.
3. Remember most of the bus lines are circular which means you can pick up the bus the other way conveniently.
4. Get a bus pass -- it's cheaper. Read the article on "
How to get a bus pass"
5. Have someone write you a letter to show the bus conductor or a passenger in case of confusion.
6. Enjoy real life!
Editor's Notes: If you are searching for where bus number 31 goes then type the following in our search engine:
#31, If you are searching for where bus number 321 goes then type the following in our search engine:
#321,
The number must be followed by a comma for exact results!There are approximately 131 buses and trolley bus routes in Qingdao. Most buses are rmb-slot self service buses. The fare is 1 rmb (2 rmb for air-conditioned buses), irregardless of the number of stops traveled. There are a small number of buses (#104, #301, #304) that are conductor operated; the fare ranges from 1 to 3.5 RMB depending on the number of stops.
