Traveling in China can be an exciting experience, but it is important to be cautious when using taxis to avoid scams or illegal “black taxis.” These unauthorized taxis often overcharge passengers, take longer routes, or use counterfeit meters.
Here are some practical tips to help travelers avoid taxi-related fraud and ensure a safe journey in China.
1. Use Official Taxis
The best way to avoid black taxis is to only use officially licensed ones. Official taxis are easily recognizable by their company logos, meter displays, and driver identification cards. In major cities, taxis are color-coded by company (e.g., yellow, blue, or green in Xi’an and yellow in Chongqing). Always check for a meter and a proper license before getting in.
2. Avoid Soliciting Drivers
Be cautious of drivers who approach you at airports, train stations, or tourist spots offering rides. These are often black taxi operators who charge excessive fares. Instead, head to the designated taxi queue or use official taxi booking counters available at transportation hubs.
3. Use Ride-Hailing Apps
Apps like DiDi (China’s version of Uber) are reliable and prevent overcharging. You can enter your destination, see the estimated fare, and track your route. If you don’t speak Chinese, using translation features or showing your destination in Chinese characters can help avoid miscommunication.
4. Insist on Using the Meter
Legitimate taxis must use a meter to calculate the fare. If a driver refuses to turn it on and tries to negotiate a fixed price, it’s best to exit the vehicle and find another taxi. Also, be wary of tampered meters that run unusually fast.
5. Keep Small Bills and Change Ready
Some dishonest drivers may claim they don’t have change, forcing you to overpay. Carrying smaller denominations (like 10 or 20 RMB notes) can help avoid this problem.
6. Know the Average Fare
Before your trip, research estimated taxi fares between key locations, such as airports to downtown areas. Knowing the general price range will help you recognize if you’re being overcharged.
7. Have Your Destination Written in Chinese
Many taxi drivers do not speak English, so having your hotel or destination name written in Chinese can prevent misunderstandings and unnecessary detours.
8. Report Scams
If you encounter an issue, note the taxi’s license plate number and driver ID, then report it to the local transport authority or your hotel. Most major cities have hotlines for taxi complaints.
By following these tips, travelers can avoid taxi scams and have a hassle-free experience while exploring China.
