Taking Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps in China

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Traveling within China, whether you’re a visitor or an expat, can be made significantly easier with the use of taxis and ride-hailing apps.

In this guide, we’ll explore the options available for taking taxis, the most popular ride-hailing apps, and tips to ensure a smooth, safe, and cost-effective journey.

1. Overview of Taxi Services in China

Taxis are a convenient and widely available mode of transportation in China.

Shanghai Cabs

They are easily recognizable with their distinct color schemes, often yellow, green, or blue, and the illuminated “TAXI” sign on top.

How to Hail a Taxi

  1. Street Hailing: Simply wave your hand to signal an available taxi. Look for a green light on the dashboard, which indicates the taxi is available.
  2. Taxi Stands: Found at airports, train stations, and major hotels, these designated areas are reliable spots to find a taxi.
  3. Phone Booking: Some taxi companies offer phone booking services, but this typically requires speaking Chinese. Alternatively, hotel staff can assist with booking.

Fares and Payment

  1. Metered Fare: Taxis in China operate on a metered fare system. The starting fare varies by city:
    • Beijing: RMB 13 for the first 3 kilometers.
    • Shanghai: RMB 14 for the first 3 kilometers.
    • Guangzhou: RMB 12 for the first 2.5 kilometers.
  2. Additional Charges:
    • Late-night rides (usually after 11 PM) may incur a surcharge.
    • Tolls and extra luggage may also result in additional fees.
  3. Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Widely accepted.
    • Mobile Payments: Most taxis now accept Alipay, WeChat Pay, and even international credit cards in some cities.

Tips for Using Taxis

  • Language Barriers: Show your destination in Chinese characters to avoid misunderstandings. Apps like Google Translate or Pleco can help.
  • Verify the Meter: Ensure the driver starts the meter at the beginning of the ride.
  • Short Trips: Some drivers may refuse short trips, especially during peak hours. Be persistent or use a ride-hailing app instead.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not customary in China, but rounding up the fare is appreciated.

2. Popular Ride-Hailing Apps in China

Ride-hailing apps have revolutionized transportation in China, offering convenience, reliability, and competitive pricing.

Here are the top apps:

1. DiDi Chuxing (滴滴出行)

DiDi is the largest ride-hailing platform in China, often compared to Uber.

It offers a variety of services, including standard rides, luxury vehicles, and carpooling.

How to Use DiDi
  1. Download the App: Available on iOS and Android.
  2. Register: Sign up using your phone number and verify your identity.
  3. Select Service: Choose from options like Express, Premier, or Hitch (carpooling).
  4. Book a Ride: Enter your pickup and drop-off locations. The app will estimate the fare and arrival time.
Payment Methods
  • Alipay, WeChat Pay, and international credit cards are accepted.
  • DiDi also offers an English version of the app, making it user-friendly for non-Chinese speakers.
Safety Features
  • In-App Emergency Button: Contact local authorities directly from the app.
  • Share Trip: Share your trip details with friends or family for added safety.
  • Official Website: DiDi Chuxing

2. Meituan (美团打车)

Meituan is another major player in the ride-hailing market, known for its user-friendly interface and competitive pricing.

How to Use Meituan
  1. Download the App: Available on iOS and Android.
  2. Register: Sign up using your phone number and verify your identity.
  3. Select Service: Choose your preferred ride type.
  4. Book a Ride: Enter your pickup and drop-off locations.
Payment Methods
  • Accepts Alipay, WeChat Pay, and other mobile payment options.
Additional Features
  • Price Comparison: Meituan compares prices with other ride-hailing services to ensure you get the best deal.
  • Official Website: Meituan

3. CaoCao (曹操出行)

CaoCao focuses on eco-friendly transportation, offering a fleet of electric vehicles.

It’s a great option for environmentally conscious travelers.

How to Use CaoCao
  1. Download the App: Available on iOS and Android.
  2. Register: Sign up using your phone number and verify your identity.
  3. Select Service: Choose from eco-friendly ride options.
  4. Book a Ride: Enter your pickup and drop-off locations.
Payment Methods
  • Accepts Alipay, WeChat Pay, and international credit cards.
Unique Selling Points
  • Eco-Friendly: Commitment to reducing carbon emissions with electric vehicles.
  • Comfort: Offers premium services with high standards of cleanliness.
  • Official Website: CaoCao

3. Tips for Using Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps in China

Language Barriers

  • Use translation apps like Google Translate or Pleco to communicate with drivers.
  • Show your destination in Chinese characters to avoid confusion.

Safety

  • Verify the car’s license plate and driver details before getting in.
  • Use in-app safety features like trip sharing and emergency buttons.

Cost Efficiency

  • Compare prices across apps to get the best deal.
  • Avoid peak hours (7:30–9:30 AM and 5:30–7:30 PM) to avoid surge pricing.

Accessibility

  • DiDi and some taxi services offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Check the app for availability.

Offline Alternatives

  • If you don’t have mobile data, pre-book taxis through your hotel or use taxi stands at major transportation hubs.

4. Environmental Considerations

Ride-hailing apps like CaoCao and DiDi’s electric vehicle options are more eco-friendly than traditional taxis.

Choosing carpooling services or electric vehicles can help reduce your carbon footprint.

5. Troubleshooting Common Issues

  1. Ride Cancellations: If a driver cancels, rebook through the app or contact customer support.
  2. Payment Issues: Ensure your mobile payment method is set up correctly. For foreigners, linking an international credit card to Alipay or WeChat Pay may require additional steps.
  3. Lost Items: Use the app’s “Lost and Found” feature to contact the driver.

Conclusion

Taking taxis and using ride-hailing apps in China is a convenient and efficient way to navigate the country.

Whether you prefer the traditional taxi or modern ride-hailing services, knowing how to use these options will make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.

By following the tips and guidelines provided, you can ensure a safe, cost-effective, and pleasant journey in China.

For more information, visit the official websites of DiDi, Meituan, and CaoCao.

Safe travels!