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Comprehensive Guide to Taxis and Ride-Hailing in Guilin, China

Guilin, a picturesque city in southern China known for its stunning karst mountains and serene rivers, is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. Navigating the city is relatively straightforward, and taxis and ride-hailing services are convenient options for getting around. Below is a detailed guide to help you understand how to use these services effectively in Guilin.

1. Taxis in Guilin

Availability

Taxi Fleet: Guilin has a well-established taxi network, and taxis are widely available in the city, especially in central areas, tourist hotspots (e.g., Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave), and transportation hubs like Guilin Liangjiang International Airport and Guilin Railway Stations.
Peak Hours: Taxis may be harder to find during peak hours (7:30–9:00 AM, 5:00–7:00 PM) and during bad weather. Plan accordingly.
Night Availability: Taxis operate 24/7, but availability may decrease late at night in less busy areas.

Costs

Base Fare: The starting fare for taxis in Guilin is ¥9 (approximately $1.20 USD) for the first 2 kilometers.
Per Kilometer Rate: After the first 2 kilometers, the fare increases by ¥2 per kilometer.
Night Surcharge: A small surcharge (usually 20%) applies between 11:00 PM and 6:00 AM.
Waiting Time: If the taxi is stuck in traffic or waiting, an additional fee of ¥1 per 5 minutes may apply.
Airport Transfers: A taxi ride from Guilin Liangjiang International Airport to the city center typically costs ¥80–100 ($11–14 USD), depending on traffic and your exact destination.

How to Hail a Taxi

Street Hailing: Taxis can be flagged down on most streets. Look for the green light on the dashboard, which indicates the taxi is available.
Taxi Stands: At major tourist attractions, hotels, and transportation hubs, you’ll find designated taxi stands.
Phone Booking: Some taxi companies allow phone bookings, but this typically requires speaking Mandarin.

Payment Methods

Cash: Cash is the most common payment method for taxis in Guilin. Always carry small denominations, as drivers may not have change for large bills.
Mobile Payments: Some taxis accept WeChat Pay or Alipay, but this is less common than in larger cities like Beijing or Shanghai. Confirm with the driver before starting your trip.
Credit Cards: Credit cards are generally not accepted.

Language Considerations

Mandarin: Most taxi drivers speak only Mandarin, and very few speak English. It’s a good idea to have your destination written in Chinese characters or show the driver the location on a map app.
Translation Apps: Apps like Google Translate or Pleco can help bridge the language gap.

Safety Tips

Official Taxis: Use only licensed taxis, which are typically green and white or blue and white in Guilin. Look for the taxi license plate and driver’s ID displayed on the dashboard.
Avoid Scams: Some drivers may refuse to use the meter and quote inflated prices, especially near tourist areas. Insist on using the meter or find another taxi.
Seatbelts: Always wear your seatbelt, even in the back seat.

2. Ride-Hailing Services in Guilin

Availability

Ride-hailing apps are widely used in Guilin and are often more convenient than traditional taxis, especially for non-Mandarin speakers. The most popular platforms are:
- DiDi Chuxing: The dominant ride-hailing app in China, similar to Uber.
- Meituan Dache: Another ride-hailing option, though less commonly used by visitors.

Costs

Base Fare: DiDi’s base fare in Guilin is similar to taxis, starting at ¥9–¥10 for the first 2 kilometers.
Per Kilometer Rate: After the base fare, the cost is ¥1.8–¥2.5 per kilometer, depending on the service level (e.g., Economy, Premium).
Dynamic Pricing: During peak hours, bad weather, or high demand, fares may increase due to surge pricing.
Airport Transfers: A DiDi ride from the airport to the city center typically costs ¥70–90 ($10–12 USD), slightly cheaper than a taxi.

How to Use Ride-Hailing Apps

Download the App: Install DiDi Chuxing (available in English) or Meituan Dache on your smartphone.
Set Up Payment: Link a payment method. DiDi accepts WeChat Pay, Alipay, and some international credit cards.
Enter Your Destination: Input your destination in the app. DiDi’s English version makes this easier for non-Mandarin speakers.
Choose a Service: Select from Economy, Premium, or other options based on your budget and preferences.
Confirm Pickup Location: Ensure the app pinpoints your exact location. You can manually adjust it if needed.
Track Your Ride: Once a driver accepts your request, you can track their arrival and the route in real time.

Payment Methods

Mobile Payments: DiDi primarily uses WeChat Pay or Alipay. If you’re a visitor, you can set up these payment methods by linking a foreign credit card to the app.
Cash: DiDi does not accept cash payments.

Language Considerations

English Interface: DiDi’s app has an English version, making it user-friendly for international visitors.
Driver Communication: Most drivers speak only Mandarin. Use the in-app messaging feature, which has a built-in translation tool, to communicate with your driver if needed.

Safety Tips

Verify the Vehicle: Check the license plate, car model, and driver’s photo in the app before getting in.
Share Your Trip: DiDi allows you to share your trip details with friends or family for added safety.
Emergency Button: The app includes an emergency button that connects you to local authorities if needed.

3. Local Customs and Unique Considerations

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in China, including in Guilin. Neither taxi drivers nor ride-hailing drivers expect tips.

Traffic Conditions

Guilin is a relatively small city, so traffic is generally manageable. However, congestion can occur during peak hours or near popular tourist attractions.

Cultural Etiquette

Politeness: Greet the driver with a simple “Ni hao” (hello) and thank them with “Xie xie” (thank you) at the end of the ride.
Patience: Drivers may not always understand your exact destination immediately. Be patient and use maps or translation apps to assist.

Tourist Areas

Be cautious when hailing taxis near major tourist attractions, as some drivers may try to overcharge. Ride-hailing apps are a better option in these areas.

Environmental Awareness

Guilin is known for its natural beauty, and the city encourages eco-friendly practices. Consider using DiDi’s Green Ride option (electric vehicles) to reduce your carbon footprint.

4. Summary of Key Tips

Use DiDi Chuxing for convenience, especially if you don’t speak Mandarin.
Always insist on the meter when using traditional taxis.
Carry small bills for cash payments.
Have your destination written in Chinese characters or use a map app to show the driver.
Avoid unlicensed taxis and verify ride-hailing vehicles before boarding.
Be prepared for potential language barriers and use translation tools as needed.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to navigate Guilin’s taxi and ride-hailing systems with ease, allowing you to focus on enjoying the city’s breathtaking scenery and cultural experiences. Safe travels!