Understanding China’s Bus Numbering and Route Signs
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- Source：The Silk Road Echo
If you've ever stood at a bus stop in Beijing or Shanghai, staring at a sea of numbers and Chinese characters, you're not alone. As someone who's navigated China's public transit for over a decade — from bustling Tier-1 cities to quiet provincial towns — I'm here to break down China’s bus numbering and route signs like a local pro.
Why Bus Numbers Matter
In China, bus numbers aren’t random. They’re coded with meaning. Whether it’s a single-digit express line or a five-digit suburban shuttle, the number tells you the route type, speed, and even service hours.
For example, in Beijing:
| Number Range | Route Type | Avg. Speed | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1–199 | Municipal Core Routes | 18 km/h | 5–8 min |
| 300–399 | Ring Line Buses | 25 km/h | 6–10 min |
| 600–699 | Express/Commuter Lines | 32 km/h | 10–15 min |
| 900–999 | Suburban Shuttles | 40 km/h | 20–30 min |
Data source: Beijing Municipal Commission of Transport (2023).
Decoding Route Signs: What the Colors Mean
Chinese bus stops use color-coded signage to help riders identify routes fast. In Shanghai and Guangzhou, you’ll see:
- Blue signs = Regular city routes
- Green signs = Express or BRT (Bus Rapid Transit)
- Yellow signs = Night buses (operating after 10 PM)
- Red signs = Tourist or special event lines
Pro tip: If you're commuting during rush hour, aim for green-labeled express buses in China — they use dedicated lanes and skip smaller stops.
Regional Differences You Should Know
Not all cities follow Beijing’s system. In Chengdu, odd-numbered routes typically run east-west, while even numbers go north-south. Hangzhou uses letter prefixes: K for fast routes (K900), M for metro connectors (M101).
Here’s a quick comparison:
| City | Prefix/Suffix | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Beijing | None | Numbers indicate hierarchy |
| Shanghai | D for “Daqubus” (large area) | D-series for cross-district travel |
| Shenzhen | E/W/N/S for direction | E12 = East-bound Route 12 |
How to Use This Knowledge
Next time you’re planning a commute, check the number and sign color first. Want faster travel? Look for higher-numbered express lines or green signs. Traveling late? Find yellow night bus stops.
And remember: apps like Baidu Maps or Amap label these routes clearly — just tap the bus icon and look for the route type. For real-time accuracy, nothing beats local data.
To dive deeper into how public transit in China is evolving with smart tech, check out our full urban mobility guide.