Jul 30 2008
Beijing Taxi -Tips and Secrets
Catching a taxi in Beijing is quite convenient and inexpensive. There are more than 60,000 registered taxis are in operation as of 2008. Taxis can be requested by phone, however since there are plentiful empty taxis available on street, people usually hail on the streets.
An increasing number of taxi drivers nowadays can speak simple English which may prove extremely useful for first time visitors. But do not expect too much. It is always necessary to put a hotel address card in your pocket and show it to the taxi drivers for direction.
The vehicle types used for taxi typically are Hyundai, Volkswagen, or Citron. The taxi price tag is displayed in the corner of the rear left or right side window. The fare system is based on both distance and time. All taxis fare start at 10RMB including 3km, and 2 RMB for each additional km or if the taxi is going less than 15 kilometers per hour. After 11 p.m. taxi fare will start at 11 RMB. There is a meter installed on the dash board, and strict policy requests the drivers must run the meter.
Cash is the only accepted taxi fare payment method now. Beginning August 2008, pre-paid public transport cards used for buses and subways in Beijing will be accepted in taxis through the city’s newly introduced system. But credit card still cannot be used for paying the fare. Please do not forget to ask a receipt printed out form the meter, not only for reimbursement, but also for complaints if you are not satisfied or feel cheated by the driver.
On the dashboard at the passenger side is a placard with the driver’s registration number, photo and name. If this placard is missing, be careful and we suggest you take another taxi which has this appropriate license. Another way to figure out if it’s a legitimate taxi is to check the car’s license plate. All legal taxis have license plates beginning with the letter “B”, as in “京B”.
Special tips:
1. Have your destinations writing in Chinese on a card
2. Ask the driver for receipt.
3. Avoid unregistered “Taxis”
4. It’s very difficult to get a cab in a rainy day
