Taxis and ride-hailing are the most convenient way to reach places the metro does not cover, especially late at night or when you have luggage. Chengdu taxis are painted green and yellow, and rides are genuinely cheap by international standards. The catch is that a few drivers may not use the meter, may take a longer route, or may struggle with Chinese addresses. Ride-hailing through the Didi app solves most of these problems because the destination is typed in, the route is tracked and the fare is fixed in advance, so there is no haggling at the end.
How Much a Ride Costs
Taxis use a flag-fall fare. The start charge covers the first few kilometers and typically costs about 8 to 9 yuan, then each extra kilometer adds roughly 1.9 yuan. A cross-town trip of 10 kilometers usually comes to about 25 to 35 yuan. A small night surcharge applies after late evening. Always make sure the driver starts the meter, and ask for a printed receipt if you suspect overcharging. Airport trips are metered like any other ride, though expect the higher end of the range.
Using Didi, the English Option
Didi (滴滴) is China's main ride-hailing app and has a full English interface. Set your destination on the map, choose a regular Express car, and the app shows the estimated price before you ride. It also shows the driver's car plate, color and rating, and gives you a live map of the car approaching. Pay by the card or mobile method linked in the app, so you never need cash. Pickup points are sometimes at marked gates rather than the curb, so follow the app pin and text the driver if you cannot find them.
Tips for Talking to Drivers
- Save your hotel and destination names in Chinese characters on your phone and show them to the driver rather than trying to pronounce them.
- Carry a small card with your hotel name and address in Chinese, most hotels print one for guests on arrival.
- If a taxi driver refuses the meter, waves you in then demands a fixed price, simply get out and use Didi or find another taxi.
- Chinese drivers rarely speak English, so avoid long conversations; point to the map and use translation apps if needed.
- Sit in the back seat and buckle up for your own safety.
Special Situations
For late or solo travel, Didi lets you share your trip with a friend by text, which is reassuring. Taxis cannot always fit large suitcases in the trunk, so ask before loading. If a driver does not speak English, typing the destination into Didi or showing the Chinese characters works better than gestures. Insist on seat belts in the back. Never accept a ride from someone who approaches you inside the station.
Practical Information
- Taxi fare: about 8-9 yuan flag fall, then about 1.9 yuan per km.
- App: Didi in English; payment inside the app.
- Cost per ride: city trip around 25-40 yuan; airport 50-200 yuan depending on airport.
- Tips: Insist on the meter. Show Chinese addresses. Use Didi for fixed fares and safety.
