Guilin
Transportation Safety
Sections
1. Public Transportation in Guilin
Guilin has a reliable public transportation system consisting mainly of buses. There is no metro system in the city.
Safety and Security
- General Safety: Public buses in Guilin are generally safe, clean, and well-maintained. Pickpocketing is rare but can occur during peak hours, so keep your belongings secure.
- Crowds: Buses can get crowded, especially during rush hours (7:30โ9:00 AM and 5:00โ7:00 PM). Be cautious of your personal space and avoid carrying large sums of cash or valuables.
- Night Travel: Some buses stop running after 9:00 PM. If youโre traveling late at night, consider using a taxi or ride-hailing service instead.
Costs
- Bus fares are very affordable, typically ยฅ1โยฅ2 (USD 0.15โ0.30) per ride, depending on the route.
- Payment can be made in cash (exact change is required) or via mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay or Alipay.
Local Considerations
- Language Barrier: Bus route information is often displayed in Chinese, and drivers may not speak English. Use translation apps or ask locals for help if needed.
- Bus Stops: Pay attention to the names of bus stops, as announcements may only be in Mandarin. Apps like Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode Maps) can help you navigate.
2. Taxis in Guilin
Taxis are a convenient and relatively affordable way to get around the city.
Safety and Security
- Licensed Taxis: Always use licensed taxis, which are typically green or yellow with a taxi sign on top. Avoid unlicensed or unofficial taxis, as they may overcharge or be unsafe.
- Seat Belts: While seat belts are not always enforced, itโs advisable to wear one for your safety.
- Scams: Some drivers may attempt to overcharge tourists by not using the meter. Politely insist on using the meter or negotiate a fare before starting the trip.
Costs
- The base fare for taxis in Guilin is ยฅ9 (USD 1.20) for the first 2 kilometers, with an additional ยฅ1.8 (USD 0.25) per kilometer thereafter.
- Late-night rides (after 11:00 PM) may incur a small surcharge.
Local Considerations
- Language Barrier: Most taxi drivers do not speak English. Have your destination written in Chinese or use a translation app.
- Receipts: Always ask for a receipt (ๅ็ฅจ, fฤpiร o) in case you leave something behind or need to report an issue.
3. Ride-Hailing Services
Ride-hailing apps like DiDi (Chinaโs equivalent of Uber) are widely used in Guilin and are often more convenient than taxis.
Safety and Security
- Verified Drivers: DiDi drivers are registered and verified, making it a safer option than unlicensed taxis.
- Emergency Features: The DiDi app has built-in safety features, such as an emergency button and the ability to share your trip details with friends or family.
- Driver Ratings: You can check driver ratings before accepting a ride.
Costs
- DiDi fares are comparable to or slightly cheaper than taxis, with prices depending on distance, time of day, and demand.
- Payment is made through the app using WeChat Pay, Alipay, or a linked credit card.
Local Considerations
- App Language: The DiDi app has an English version, making it user-friendly for non-Chinese speakers.
- Peak Times: During peak hours or bad weather, ride-hailing services may have higher fares due to surge pricing.
4. Cycling in Guilin
Cycling is a popular and eco-friendly way to explore Guilin, especially for visiting scenic areas like the Li River or countryside villages.
Safety and Security
- Road Safety: While cycling is generally safe in Guilin, be cautious of traffic, especially on busy roads. Drivers may not always yield to cyclists.
- Bike Lanes: Some main roads have designated bike lanes, but they may not always be clearly marked or respected by vehicles.
- Helmet Use: Helmets are not commonly used by locals but are recommended for safety.
Costs
- Bike Rentals: Renting a bike costs around ยฅ20โยฅ50 (USD 3โ7) per day, depending on the type of bike.
- Shared Bikes: Bike-sharing services like Mobike or Hellobike are available. Unlocking a bike costs around ยฅ1โยฅ2 (USD 0.15โ0.30) per 30 minutes. Payment is made via mobile apps.
Local Considerations
- Mobile Payment: To use shared bikes, youโll need a Chinese mobile payment account (WeChat Pay or Alipay).
- Scenic Routes: Stick to quieter roads or designated cycling paths for a more enjoyable and safer experience. Popular routes include the Yulong River area and the countryside around Yangshuo.
5. General Tips for Transportation Safety in Guilin
- Mobile Payment: Most transportation options in Guilin rely heavily on mobile payment systems like WeChat Pay and Alipay. Setting up one of these accounts is highly recommended for convenience.
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers accidents or theft while using public or private transportation.
- Emergency Numbers: Save the local emergency numbers:
- Police: 110
- Ambulance: 120
- Fire: 119
- Cultural Sensitivity: Be patient and polite when communicating with drivers or locals, as language barriers can sometimes cause misunderstandings.
6. Summary Table of Transportation Options
| Mode | Safety | Cost | Key Considerations | |----------------------|----------------------------|---------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Public Buses | Safe, but crowded at times | ยฅ1โยฅ2 per ride | Use translation apps; exact change or mobile payment required. | | Taxis | Safe if licensed | ยฅ9 base fare + ยฅ1.8/km | Insist on the meter; carry your destination written in Chinese. | | Ride-Hailing | Very safe | Similar to taxis | Use DiDi app; English version available; beware of surge pricing during peak hours. | | Cycling | Safe on quieter roads | ยฅ20โยฅ50/day (rental) | Stick to scenic routes; use bike-sharing apps for short trips. |
By following these guidelines, you can navigate Guilinโs transportation system safely and efficiently. Whether youโre commuting within the city or exploring its breathtaking surroundings, being informed and prepared will ensure a pleasant experience.