Quick Answer
In modern China, street taxis exist but are no longer the main way people get around.
Most locals use ride-hailing apps, and trying to flag a taxi by hand often fails—especially during rush hours or at night.
For visitors, apps are the reliable choice.
The Core Reality (This Explains Everything)
China has largely moved away from street hailing because:
- Most taxis are booked via apps
- Drivers prefer app orders (clear destination, digital payment)
- Cities restrict random roadside stops
- Traffic enforcement is strict
This is a system-level change, not bad luck.
Why You Often Can’t Flag a Taxi
Common reasons taxis don’t stop:
- Already assigned to an app order
- Not allowed to stop at that location
- Avoiding short or congested trips
- Near shift changes or peak hours
An empty taxi does not mean available.
When Street Taxis Can Still Work
Street taxis may work:
- At official taxi stands
- Outside major hotels
- At airports and large stations
- Late at night in quieter areas
- In smaller cities
Even then, success is inconsistent.
How Street Taxis Actually Work (If You Get One)
- Metered fare (no negotiation)
- Destination shown on phone
- Cashless payment preferred
- Minimal conversation
English is not expected.
Payment Reality (Very Important)
Most taxis prefer:
- Alipay
- WeChat Pay
Cash:
- May be refused
- May slow things down
- Is considered a backup
Digital payment is the norm.
Common Problems With Street Taxis
- Refusing short trips
- Ignoring passengers during rush hour
- Communication difficulties
- Longer wait times than apps
These issues frustrate visitors the most.
Why Apps Are Objectively Better
Ride-hailing apps provide:
- Guaranteed pickup
- Clear pricing
- GPS navigation
- Digital records
- Issue resolution
This is why locals switched.
What NOT to Do
- Do not negotiate fares
- Do not argue with drivers
- Do not rely on cash
- Do not expect taxis to stop anywhere
This creates friction.
Common First-Time Mistakes
- Waving taxis aggressively
- Standing far from legal pickup points
- Assuming empty taxis are free
- Avoiding apps out of habit
Apps remove all of this.
Reality Check
Many visitors later say:
“Once I used an app, taxis stopped being a problem.”
This reflects current reality.
What Locals Do Instead
- Use ride-hailing apps
- Go to taxi stands only when needed
- Avoid roadside hailing
- Trust GPS routing
You should do the same.
Checklist
- Ride-hailing app installed.
- Payment method linked.
- Hotel pickup point saved.
- Street hailing treated as backup only.
- Taxi stands used when available.