Transportation
How to Take a Taxi in Beijing: A Complete Guide for Foreign Travelers
Learn how to take a taxi in Beijing safely and efficiently. This guide covers taxi types, fares, how to communicate in Chinese, and tips for foreign travelers.
TripMandarin Team
8 min read
January 15, 2024
# How to Take a Taxi in Beijing: A Complete Guide for Foreign Travelers
- Taking a taxi in Beijing can be convenient but confusing for foreign travelers. This guide provides step-by-step instructions, practical tips, and essential Chinese phrases to help you navigate the city safely.
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📍1. Understanding Beijing Taxis
▶Beijing has metered taxis, which are the most common for short trips. Key points:
▶- Taxi Types:
- - Standard taxis (Red, Green, or Blue)
- - Ride-hailing apps (DiDi)
- Fare System:
- - Starting fare: ¥13 for the first 3 km
- - Extra: ¥2.3–¥3 per km after
- - Night fare surcharge: ¥3–¥5 (11 PM–5 AM)
- Payment Options:
- - Cash (RMB)
- - Mobile payment: Alipay, WeChat Pay
- - Some taxis accept foreign credit cards via app booking
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📍2. Essential Chinese Phrases for Taxi
| English | Chinese | Pinyin |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi, please go to [destination] | 请去 [destination] | Qǐng qù [destination] |
| Stop here, please | 请在这里停 | Qǐng zài zhèlǐ tíng |
| How much is the fare? | 多少钱？ | Duōshǎo qián? |
| I want to go to the airport | 我要去机场 | Wǒ yào qù jīchǎng |
| I don't speak Chinese | 我不会说中文 | Wǒ bù huì shuō zhōngwén |
> Tip: Copy or screenshot these phrases on your phone for easy reference.
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📍3. How to Hail a Taxi
▶1. Street Hailing:
- - Stand on the sidewalk, look for a red or green taxi with a green light (available).
- 2. Taxi Stand:
- - Found near hotels, shopping malls, subway stations.
- 3. Ride-Hailing App:
- - Use DiDi, available in English. Enter your destination and confirm fare estimate.
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📍4. Important Tips for Foreign Travelers
- Always check the meter; avoid unlicensed taxis.
- Carry small cash (RMB) in case the driver does not accept mobile payments.
- Address cards: Print your hotel or destination address in Chinese characters.
- Avoid rush hours (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM) to save time.
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📍5. Using DiDi for Convenience
- DiDi is like Uber in China.
- Steps:
- 1. Download DiDi app (English version available).
- 2. Enter destination in Chinese or select on map.
- 3. Pay with credit card or Alipay/WeChat.
- Pros: Fixed fare, safety, English interface.
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📍Conclusion
- Taking a taxi in Beijing is easy and safe if you know the rules, fare system, and basic Chinese phrases. This guide ensures that foreign travelers can reach their destinations smoothly and confidently.