MileHacker Logo
Getting Around Anqing

Getting Around Anqing

Anqing Anhui, China Travel Guide

Bus System Overview

The bus network covers most of Anqing's city and suburban areas. It connects residential zones, commercial centers, major attractions, and both railway stations.

Route Maps and Important Hubs: Bus routes reach areas. Important hubs include Anqing Railway Station, Anqing West Train Station, Anqing Long-Distance Bus Station, and major commercial districts. Bus stops are clearly marked.

Bus Fares & Operations

  • Fares: Most bus fares are affordable, typically ¥1-¥2 per ride. Exact change is needed; drivers cannot provide change.
  • Payment Methods: Cash, local bus cards, or A scannable code scanning via WeChat Pay or Alipay is widely accepted.
  • Hours: Generally from early morning (around 6:00 AM) to late evening (around 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM).
  • Accessibility: Some newer buses offer low-floor access, but universal accessibility across the fleet or at all stops is not guaranteed.

Digital Map Use

Use Chinese maps on your phone like Baidu Maps or Amap for real-time bus information and route planning. These mobile apps are accurate.

Cash Preparedness

Have small denominations of cash ready if you are not using mobile payment. Bus drivers cannot make change.

Crowd Awareness

During peak hours, buses can become crowded. Plan accordingly or consider alternative transport if you desire more space.

Public Transit Ticketing & Use

Ticketing Systems
  • Fares: Most bus fares are ¥1-¥2. Exact cash, bus cards, or mobile payment (WeChat Pay/Alipay QR scan) are accepted.
  • Operating Hours: Buses operate from early morning (around 6:00 AM) to late evening (9:00 PM - 10:00 PM). Frequency varies by route.
  • Digital Maps: The Baidu maps app or Amap are highly accurate for real-time bus information and route preparation.
Tips for Navigating
  • Mobile Payment: WeChat Pay or Alipay QR code scanning is the most common payment. Set up these apps before boarding.
  • Cash: Carry ¥1 or ¥2 coins/notes for bus fares if not using mobile payment.
  • Accessibility: Some newer public buses possess low-floor access, but universal accessibility is still developing. Older buses may present difficulties.

Local Public Transport Details

Bus Fares

¥1-¥2 per ride

Payment Options

Cash, Bus Card, WeChat Pay/Alipay QR

Operating Hours

6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Peak Frequency

5-15 min

Taxis and Ride-Sharing in Anqing

Taxis and ride-sharing services offer convenient and direct transportationation, especially for longer distances or when carrying luggage.

Licensed Taxis

  • Identification: Licensed Anqing taxis have a distinct color and a roof light displaying "TAXI". They always use a meter.
  • Hailing Procedures: Taxis hail on the street, find at designated taxi stands, or book through ride-sharing apps.
  • Payment & Fares: Pay with cash, WeChat Pay, or Alipay. Flag fall ¥8-¥12, then ¥1.8-¥2.5/km. Night surcharge applies after 10:00 PM. Always ensure the driver uses the meter.

Ride-Sharing Apps

  • Recommended Apps: Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行) is the dominant ride-sharing app in China. It offers Didi Express, Premier, and Taxi services.
  • Payment & Usage: mainly via WeChat Pay or Alipay, linked to the app. OF Chinese origin phone number is needed for registration; full functionality with local setup is best.
  • Safety Considerations: Didi tracks all trips and provides driver and vehicle information. Share your trip details with a trusted contact for added safety.
  • User Experience: The app design is user-friendly, with options for various vehicle types and price points.

Rental Options in Anqing

  • Car Rental: Foreign visitors need a valid Chinese driving license or a temporary permit; IDPs are NOT recognized.
  • Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals: Motorcycles less common for tourists. Electric scooters are widely used by locals; tourist rental is rare.
  • Bicycle Sharing: Dockless bike-sharing (Hellobike, Meituan Bike, Qingju Bike) available. Requires a Smartphone app, Chinese phone number, and WeChat Pay/Alipay.
  • Driving Laws & Conditions: Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. Traffic laws enforced. Major roads are good; smaller streets can have congestion.
  • Parking: Paid parking lots available. Street parking often limited.
  • Road Safety: Pedestrians/cyclists must use caution due to vehicle traffic.

Walking and Cycling in Anqing

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Linghu Park, the Yangtze River embankment, and some older city center streets are pleasant for walking.

Bicycle Infrastructure

Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited. Cyclists often share roads with vehicles or use sidewalks, which can be busy.

Safety Zones

Major multi-lane arterial roads and highways are not suitable for pedestrians or cyclists. Always use designated crossings and respect traffic signals.

Specialized Transportation in Anqing

Unique transportation options for specific needs or leisure.

Tour Buses & Water Transport

  • Tour Buses: No dedicated hop-on-hop-off services. Tour buses are typically for group tours, especially day trips to Tianzhushan (pre-booked packages).
  • Boat Taxis: Limited 'boat taxi' services. Small leisure boats operate on Linghu Lake or parts of the Yangtze.
  • These boats are mainly for recreation, not regular transportation.

Cable Cars & Accessibility

  • Cable Cars: Available at Tianzhushan Scenic Area (outside Anqing city) to assist visitors in reaching higher elevations, making the mountain accessible.
  • Accessibility Services: Infrastructure is developing. Public transport, older buildings, and some attractions may have limited features.
  • Newer hotels and major public buildings have more accessible amenities.
  • Planning ahead and contacting venues directly is suggested for travelers with mobility needs.

Planning for Mobility Needs

Public Transport Access

Some newer buses offer low-floor access or ramps.

Universal access is still developing.

Building Accessibility

Older buildings and some attractions may have limited accessibility features.

Newer facilities are better equipped.

Advance Preparation

Contact venues directly to confirm accessibility before your visit.

Pre-trip planning is suggested for a smoother journey.

Specialty Vehicle Overview

Tour Services
  • Tour buses provide structured travel for groups.
  • Often used for excursions to Tianzhushan.
  • Typically part of pre-booked travel packages.
Unique Transport
  • Cable cars simplify access to mountain peaks.
  • Small boats offer recreational trips on local lakes and rivers.
  • Not for routine city commuting, more for scenic enjoyment.

Pedestrian & Cyclist Safety

  • Pedestrian-Friendly: Linghu Park and Yangtze embankment are good for walking.
  • Cycling Infrastructure: Limited dedicated bicycle lanes. Cyclists often share roads.
  • Safety Concern: Traffic can be chaotic. Use extreme caution when going by bicycle or walking.
  • Helmets: Recommended for cyclists, though not mandatory for grown-ups.
  • No-Go Areas: Major multi-lane arterial roads and highways are not suitable for pedestrians or cyclists.
  • Crossings: Always use designated crossings and respect traffic signals.
  • Alertness: Remain alert to traffic at all times, especially in urban areas.
  • Self-Guided Tours: Feasible with maps plus mobile apps for flexible exploration.

Public Transport Navigation

Anqing’s public transport is efficient for local movement. Buses cover most areas, and ride-sharing with Didi is widely available.

Bus Travel Advantages

  • Cost-effective for moving about the city.
  • Extensive network reaching most urban and suburban areas.
  • Mobile payment options (WeChat Pay, Alipay) for convenience.
  • Real-time tracking and route planning via local apps.

Ride-Sharing Benefits

  • Straight and comfortable transportation.
  • Easy arranging and payment through Didi Chuxing app.
  • GPS tracking for transparency and safety.
  • Available for farther travel or when time is a factor.

Specialized Transport Features

Cable Cars

At Tianzhushan Scenic Area, cable cars make mountain exploration easier.

  • Access higher elevations
  • Scenic views
  • Reduces hiking effort
Tour Buses

Organized for group travel to specific attractions and regional tours.

  • Pre-booked packages
  • Convenient for groups
  • Direct routes
Boat Trips

Leisure boats on Linghu Lake or parts of the Yangtze River.

  • Recreational purpose
  • Short excursions
  • Not for daily commuting

Mobility Challenges & Accessibility

Infrastructure Development
  • Accessibility infrastructure in Anqing is still developing.
  • Public transport, older buildings, and some attractions might not be very accessible features.
  • Newer hotels and major public buildings are more likely to have ramps, elevators, plus accessible bathrooms.
Planning Suggestions
  • Planning ahead is suggested for travelers with mobility needs.
  • Contact venues directly to make sure it's accessible before your visit.
  • Review specific requirements and travel services for disabled travelers beforehand.

Navigating Anqing

Anqing’s public transport is efficient for local movement. Buses cover nearly all areas, and ride-sharing with Didi is widely available.

For unique natural sights like Tianzhushan, tour buses or cable cars connect you to breathtaking views. Embrace mobile payment for simple transactions. Enjoy your travels.

Getting Around Anqing. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental