Taxi is a convenient means of transportation in large and medium-sized tourist cities in China, with fares ranging from 1 to 2 Yuan per kilometre. Simply raise your hand, and the taxi stops immediately for hotels in Beijing and other tourist cities.
Taxi meters start at 6 RMB in most places.
If you decide to hire a taxi be sure to be clear WHERE you want to go and how long you want to hire the driver for and be firm. When I was recently traveling in Xi'an I was short on time and wanted to see the Terracotta Soldiers so I asked a driver what to and from service would cost. We negotiated the rate and set off. He took me to a manufacturer of terracotta soldiers despite the fact that I specifically told him AND showed him pictures of the place I wanted to go. Never having been there before I didn't know the first place wasn't the right place until I walked through it and talked to someone inside. They laughed and said "No No - not here. There far and very big."
When I left I just walked to the street and hailed another taxi in front of my taxi. He was in great distress and came over and begged for another chance which I gave him but told him in no uncertain circumstances would he be given another chance and that I wanted to go immediately. I was very short on time and this detour cost me at least an hour.
It was well worth the effort. Be sure to always be firm when negotiating and dealing with Chinese people. Doi not raise your voice. Do not show anger. For more information on negotiating in China check our our China Culture page.
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