Public Phones:

You can make calls from small shops, kiosks and newsagents. They often have phones on shelves for passers-by to use, sometimes outside, sometime inside. Just call the local number (sometimes international calls are not possible) and pay afterwards – they are metered inside the shop. This is a reliable system that most Chinese use frequently and there is little chance of getting ripped-off. To make an international call you may have to buy an IP (International Phonecard). ‘IP’ cards can usually be bought from small shops that display a blue and white IP sign. Always try to ask, if using a shop phone, the rate before calling. Remember to use an area code for outside Beijing, these are often four-digit prefixes. (Seemobile phonesfor more info).