As you step into the bustling streets of China, you find yourself immersed in a world of vibrant sights and sounds. Among the myriad transportation options available, taking a taxi is integral to experiencing the country’s urban landscape and cultural treasures. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, understanding the ins and outs of taking a taxi in China can make your journey smooth and rewarding.
Hailing a Taxi in China
Hailing a taxi in China is a standard and straightforward process, especially in urban areas.
Identifying Licensed Taxis
Look for taxis with a lighted sign on top. Licensed taxis will have a sign that says “空车” (kōngchē), meaning “available” or “vacant,” in green characters on the roof. Avoid unmarked or unlicensed vehicles, as they may not adhere to the standard taxi regulations, and it’s safer to use official taxis.
Hailing Gestures
To hail a taxi, raise your arm and extend your hand palm-down toward the street. This gesture is universally recognized as a request for a taxi in China. Stand on the side of the road where the traffic flows in the direction you want to go.
Taxi Stands
In busy areas like train stations, shopping malls, tourist attractions, and major intersections, you’ll often find designated taxi stands where taxis line up to pick up passengers. If you’re in such an area, you can head to the taxi stand and wait in line for the next available taxi.
Using Mobile Apps
In some cities, people widely use ride-hailing apps like DiDi (similar to Uber). You can request a taxi to your location using these apps and track its arrival. This option is handy if you’re in an area with fewer taxis or during peak hours when taxis may be in high demand.
Solo Female Travelers
For solo female travelers, it’s advisable to sit in the back seat of the taxi and, if possible, share your ride details with someone you trust. While most taxi drivers are reputable and honest, taking precautions is always a good practice when traveling alone.
Communicating with Taxi Drivers
Communicating with taxi drivers in China can be a challenge, especially if you don’t speak Mandarin or if the driver needs help understanding English. However, with a few simple techniques and some preparation, you can overcome language barriers and ensure a smooth taxi ride.
Written Destination
Have the name and address of your destination written down in Chinese characters. If you need to learn Chinese characters, you can ask your hotel concierge or a local friend to write it for you. The driver eliminates confusion and ensures they’re headed to the right place by showing them the written destination.
Use Translation Apps
Utilize translation apps on your smartphone to bridge the language gap. Apps like Google Translate or Pleco can help with basic phrases and translate sentences for smoother communication.
Learn Basic Phrases
While optional, learning a few basic Chinese phrases can be helpful. Phrases like “hello” (你好 – nǐ hǎo), “thank you” (谢谢 – xiè xiè), and “left” (左边 – zuǒ biān) or “right” (右边 – yòu biān) can aid in giving directions or responding to the driver.
Speak Clearly and Simply
If you do try to communicate verbally, speak slowly and clearly. Use simple sentences and avoid using complex words or slang that may be hard to understand.
Gestures and Pointing
Non-verbal communication can be very effective. Use hand gestures and pointing on a map or your phone to indicate your destination or a specific direction you want to go.
Taxi Fare and Payment
Metered Fare System
Taxis in China operate on a metered fare system. As you enter the taxi, the driver will start the meter, and it will calculate the fare based on the distance traveled and time spent during the journey. The meter displays the base fare, and the taxi adds additional charges as it moves, typically in increments for every kilometer traveled.
Initial Charges
Each city in China may have its initial charge, which is the starting fare when the meter is turned on. This initial charge covers the first few kilometers of the journey.
Distance Fare
Once the taxi starts moving, the meter will calculate the fare based on the distance covered. The fare increases as the distance traveled increases.
Nighttime Surcharge
Some cities implement a nighttime surcharge between 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM. During this time, the taxi fare may be slightly higher, often by a percentage of the regular fare.
Payment Options
Payment for taxi rides in China is primarily made in cash. Most taxis do not accept credit or debit cards, so carrying sufficient Chinese currency (RMB) in small denominations is advisable to pay for your fare. Ride-hailing apps like DiDi utilize cashless payment methods within the app, allowing users to make transactions using platforms such as WeChat Pay or Alipay.
Safety and Etiquette
Safety and etiquette are crucial aspects to consider when taking a taxi in China. Following these guidelines ensures a smooth and comfortable ride and enhances the overall experience for passengers and drivers.
Seat Belts
Chinese law requires all passengers to wear seat belts in a taxi. Always buckle up for your safety and to comply with local regulations.
Check for Identification
- Ensure it is an officially licensed vehicle before getting into a taxi.
- Look for precise identification, such as the company logo and the taxi number on the sides and back of the car.
- Avoid unmarked or unlicensed taxis to prevent potential scams or safety risks.
Avoid Unofficial Pick-ups
Refrain from accepting rides from individuals who approach you claiming to be taxi drivers, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Stick to designated taxi stands or hail a taxi from the street.
Watch the Meter
Taxis in China have meters that calculate the fare based on the distance traveled and time spent during the journey. Monitor the meter to ensure it runs correctly and charges you accurately.
Secure Belongings
Keep your belongings close and secure during the ride. Avoid leaving valuable items, such as bags, phones, or cameras, visible to prevent potential theft.
Greeting and Communication
While many taxi drivers in China may need to speak English fluently, a friendly greeting is always appreciated. Use simple Chinese phrases or translation apps to communicate your destination effectively.
No Smoking
In China, authorities generally prohibit smoking in taxis. It is essential to avoid smoking during the ride as it is considered impolite and disrespectful to the driver and passengers.
Avoid Eating and Drinking
It is considered courteous not to eat or drink inside the taxi. Save your snacks and beverages for outside the vehicle.
Related Article: China Travel Requirements & Restrictions Updates – November 2022
Mobile Apps for Ride-Hailing
Mobile apps for ride-hailing have revolutionized the way people take taxis in China. These apps provide a convenient and efficient way to request a ride, track the driver’s location, and make cashless payments. The two most popular ride-hailing apps in China are DiDi (滴滴出行) and Meituan Dianping (美团点评).
DiDi (滴滴出行)
- DiDi is the leading ride-hailing platform in China, offering a wide range of transportation services, including taxis, private cars, carpooling, and more.
- To use DiDi, travelers must download the app from the app store and create an account. The app is available in multiple languages, making it accessible to international users.
- Users can input their pick-up location and destination in the app and choose the type of service they prefer (e.g., Express, Premier, etc.).
- The app shows the estimated fare, route, and the nearest available drivers in real time. Users can track the driver’s location as they approach the pick-up point.
- DiDi offers various payment options, including credit cards, mobile payment platforms like WeChat Pay and Alipay, and even cash in some regions.
- Safety features include sharing the ride details with friends and family, emergency contact options, and driver ratings and feedback.
Meituan Dianping (美团点评)
- Originally known as a food delivery and restaurant review platform, Meituan Dianping has expanded into ride-hailing services.
- Like DiDi, users can download the Meituan app and create an account to access ride-hailing services.
- The app provides various transportation options, including taxis, private cars, and bike-sharing services.
- Users can enter their destination and view available drivers nearby, along with the estimated fare and route.
- Meituan Dianping also supports cashless payments, allowing users to link their payment methods to the app for seamless transactions.
- Safety features include driver ratings and reviews, trip-sharing options, and customer support.
Tipping Culture in China
Tipping is not a common practice in China, extending to taking taxis. In China, people do not expect or require passengers to tip taxi drivers. The total amount displayed on the taxi’s meter is considered the fare for the ride, and passengers do not need to add a tip.
Tipping is not deeply ingrained in Chinese culture; attempting to tip a taxi driver may be confusing. Taxi drivers in China earn their income from the fares they charge and do not rely on tips to supplement their earnings.
In China, locals might consider it impolite or awkward if you offer a tip, as it goes against their customs and social norms. Sometimes, a taxi driver may politely refuse the tip to avoid misunderstanding.
However, there are a few exceptions when tipping might be more common or appreciated, though it still needs to be expected. For instance, in high-end establishments or luxury hotels that cater to international clientele, staff may be more accustomed to receiving tips. In such cases, a small tip of around 5-10% might be considered, but it’s essential to assess the situation and context carefully before offering a tip.
Related Article: The Engineering Marvel: Exploring the Qinghai-Tibet Railway
Conclusion
Taking a taxi in China is a straightforward and reliable way to get around the city, and it allows you to explore various destinations comfortably, especially when public transportation might not be readily available or convenient.
