5 Ways to getting around in China – Transport modes available in China

Long-distance transport is quite good, but local transport isn't all that efficient, though it is not the case with cities facilitated by metro systems. Local transport options are diverse, but the vehicles can be rather too slow for a tourist's liking, not to mention how overburdened they are. Hiring a car isn't the most practical choice, but hiring a bike in its place isn't overly adequate either. Unless you are lodged at one of the furnished apartments Suzhou, at a place like Somerset Emerald City Suzhou for example, where everything is located rather close to one another, walking isn't the ideal option. But, on a positive note, transport is cheap, and taxis can be found anywhere at any time of the day, and the metro system seems to be growing rapidly.

There is an extensive bus network which makes it the most convenient and cheapest option available. However, tourists are hardly seen using them. After getting in the bus, you can let the conductor know where you wish to go, and you will be told where to get down upon reaching the destination. If there's no conductor, you will put the money into a slot available inside the bus as you get off. Fares are ridiculously cheap, but the buses are packed with people. Navigation can be tricky if you don't speak Chinese, but if you are journeying to a tourist town, the name of the destination will be announced in English. What's more, the traffic can be rather infuriating.

Using light rail is the more efficient and faster option. Most of the metro networks are new and can be found in major cities.

Taxi fares are rather cheap, and they are easy to find too. You can see the taxi rate mentioned on a sticker pasted on the rear side of the window; rates vary from city to city, they also depend on the quality and the size of the vehicle. If you cannot see a meter, talk to the driver about the fare and write down the agreed-upon fare lest you forget. If you'd rather have the meter used, you can inquire the driver about it, also, don't forget to get a receipt; if you leave something in the taxi, you can get it back by locating the taxi with the vehicle number on the receipt. Travellers can usually flag the taxis down; however, bus and train stations serve as congregation points. Drivers almost never speak English, so you might have to write down the destination on a piece of paper. If you have trouble communicating, you can always phone up your hotel and get the staff to help you get things clarified. You can hire taxis for any length of time; usually on a half-day or a full-day basis. The rates are reasonable, but you should negotiate beforehand. If you like the services of a particular driver, you can ask for their card so you can call them again if you need a taxi.

There is a variety of other transport modes available in China, including pedicabs, but the rates can be a little out of order; therefore, you need to agree upon a price beforehand. The rates are almost the same as taxis, and there are two types of pedicabs: motor pedicabs and pedal-powered pedicabs.

You also have the option of motorbikes, but they are less recommended.