beijing taxi

There are over 67,000 taxis running in every corner of the city. Some drivers speak a little English, while most do not. The city authorities claim to have a plan to improve drivers' English for the 2008 Olympics, but its impact will be slight at best. Make sure you have the address written in Chinese, and don't rely on a name like Hilton or Hyatt to get you to your hotel: the Chinese names for these establishments are quite different from their famous global labels, which very few drivers will recognize. If there is a phone contact at your destination, note that as well: a mobile phone is the most useful navigation tool in Beijing!

Beijing cab drivers are honest, and incidents of drivers deliberately taking advantage of foreigners are very rare. Tipping in China is not customary and drivers will expect to be paid only what is on the meter, plus any road tolls. The taxi fleet has been upgraded over the past two years, and nearly all vehicles are now reasonably spacious and comfortable. Sit in the front if you want to buckle up: bizzarely, there is no requirement for rear seatbelts, and most cab companies rip them out.

Starting fare is RMB 10, and beyond 3 km the rate is RMB 2 per km. There are surcharges for long-distance and late night trips. Five minutes of waiting time equals 1 km of driving time. Keep the printed receipt at the end of the trip: it includes all vehicle details, which is invaluable if you have left an item in the taxi.

Avoid taxi touts at the airport, at bus stations etc. They are trying to steer you to unofficial taxis (known as ''black cars'' in Chinese). These have no meters, and while some Beijingers cheerfully use them, foreigners should steer clear.

Taxi calling number: 010-68373399, 96103
Taxi complaint number: 010- 68351150, 68351570, 68344238

Beijing Yinjian Industry Co., Ltd.
Add: 98 Hongtai Zhuang, Fengtai District, Beijing
Tel: 010-67227560

Crescent United Bus Co., Ltd.
Add: Mafangsi Village, Wangsiguan, Gaobeidian, Chaoyang District, Beijing
Tel: 010-67366666