Taxi

Navigating a new city is always an adventure, and when it comes to transportation in China, understanding the taxi system is key. While China has rapidly embraced online payment methods, knowing the traditional and modern ways to hail a ride will ensure you can get around smoothly.

A Note on Payment: Embracing Digital Wallets

It’s important to be aware that China has largely transitioned to mobile payments. While cash is still accepted by law, many taxi drivers, especially in larger cities, heavily prefer or primarily use digital payment platforms like WeChat Pay (微信支付 – Wēixìn Zhīfù) and Alipay (支付宝 – Zhīfùbǎo). For a seamless experience, it’s highly recommended that you set up one or both of these payment methods before or upon arrival in China. This typically involves linking a bank card (though international card compatibility can vary) and may require a local phone number. While cash payment is still an option, be prepared for potential inconvenience, such as drivers not having sufficient change.

Two Main Ways to Hail a Ride:

There are two primary methods for getting a taxi in China: traditional street hailing and using ride-hailing apps.

Method 1: Traditional Taxi Stands (Especially at Transportation Hubs)

• Where to Find Them: Airports and major railway stations in China typically have designated taxi pick-up zones. Look for clear “Taxi” (出租车 – Chūzūchē) signs. Follow these signs, and you’ll usually find a queue of taxis waiting to pick up passengers.
• How it Works: Simply join the queue and wait for your turn. A dispatcher might be present to help organize the flow. Once you reach the front, a taxi will pull up, and you can tell the driver your destination.
• Pros: This is a straightforward and reliable option, especially when you first arrive at a new location and might not have internet access or a ride-hailing app set up yet.
• Cons: You might encounter longer wait times during peak hours or at busy transportation hubs. Language can sometimes be a barrier with drivers.

Method 2: Ride-Hailing Apps (Including Mini-Programs within Payment Platforms)

Ride-hailing apps have become incredibly popular in China, offering a convenient and often more efficient way to get around, especially in urban areas. Beyond standalone apps, WeChat (微信 – Wēixìn) and Alipay (支付宝 – Zhīfùbǎo), the dominant mobile payment platforms, also feature built-in mini-programs for hailing taxis and other ride services, often proving to be the most seamless option for users who already have these apps set up.

• Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行 – Dīdī Chūxíng): This remains the leading ride-hailing platform in China, offering various services. While the standalone app might have language barriers, it’s also often integrated as a mini-program within WeChat and Alipay.
• WeChat Mini-Programs (微信小程序 – Wēixìn Xiǎo Chéngxù) & Alipay Mini-Programs (支付宝小程序 – Zhīfùbǎo Xiǎo Chéngxù): Both WeChat and Alipay host a variety of mini-programs, including those for ride-hailing services like Didi. These can be accessed directly within the respective payment apps without needing to download a separate application. How to Use Ride-Hailing Mini-Programs (General Steps):
  1. Open WeChat or Alipay: Launch your WeChat or Alipay app.
  2. Search for Ride-Hailing: Use the search function within the app to find ride-hailing services. You can search for “滴滴出行” (Didi Chuxing) or simply look for transportation-related mini-programs.
  3. Set Your Pickup and Drop-off Locations: Use the map interface to enter your current location and your desired destination. The interface is often simpler than the standalone app and might have some English elements.
  4. Choose a Service: Select the type of service you need (e.g., “Express,” “Taxi”).
  5. View Fare Estimate: The mini-program will usually provide an estimated fare for your trip.
  6. Confirm Your Ride: Tap the button to request a driver.
  7. Driver Information: Once a driver accepts, you’ll see their information.
  8. Payment: Payment is seamlessly integrated with your WeChat Pay or Alipay account.
  9. Rating: After your ride, you can rate your driver.

Why Mini-Programs Can Be the Most Convenient:

• No Additional App Download: If you already use WeChat or Alipay (which is highly likely for payment in China), you don’t need to download and register on a separate ride-hailing app.
• Integrated Payment: Payment is incredibly smooth as it’s directly linked to your existing WeChat Pay or Alipay account.
• Potentially Simpler Interface: Some mini-program interfaces can be more streamlined and easier to navigate, even if language remains a partial barrier.

Important Note Regarding Phone Number Verification for Ride-Hailing Apps (Including Mini-Programs):

Please be aware that registering for ride-hailing services, even within WeChat and Alipay mini-programs, typically requires a Chinese phone number to receive the SMS verification code. While some might accept foreign numbers, a local number ensures a much smoother registration process for these essential transportation options.

• Other Platforms: While Didi is often the primary ride-hailing option within these mini-programs, you might find other regional services integrated as well.

By leveraging the ride-hailing mini-programs within WeChat and Alipay, foreign tourists who have set up these payment methods can often find this to be the most convenient and integrated way to book transportation in China.