Getting Around Changde. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation: Bus Network

Changde mainly relies on an extensive public bus network. The city currently is without a metro (subway) or tram system. The buses cover most urban and suburban areas.

Buses connect major attractions, residential zones, and transportation hubs. Navigation apps prove useful for route information.

Routes & Hubs

Bus routes can appear complex; maps are often in Chinese.
Use local navigation apps like Baidu Maps navigation or Gaode Maps.
Apps present real-time bus locations and estimated arrival times.
Important hubs include areas around railway stations and the city center.

Fares & Payments

Fares are typically ¥1 or ¥2 per ride, regardless of distance within the city.

Mobile Payment

WeChat Pay or Alipay via A scannable code scanning is the most common and convenient method. Exact cash is useful.

Hours & Frequency

Buses operate from early morning (around 6:00 AM) until late evening (9:00 PM-10:00 PM). Frequency varies.

Efficiency & Accessibility

Navigating Efficiently

Use Baidu Maps navigation or Gaode Maps for route planning.
Have exact cash or mobile payment ready before boarding.
Expect crowded buses, particularly during rush hour.

Accessibility

Public transport has limited accessibility for wheelchair users.
Newer buses may present low-floor access, but many older ones do not.
Information on specific accessible routes is not widely available.

Payment Advice

Cash

Exact change (¥1 or ¥2) is essential; drivers do not offer change.

Bus Card

Requires real-name registration, impractical for short-term visitors.

Mobile Pay

WeChat Pay or Alipay QR code scanning is the preferred method.

Always Carry

Small denominations of cash in case mobile payment encounters issues.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing apps deliver convenient and relatively affordable door-to-door transportation in Changde.

Taxis

Licensed taxis are typically green or blue, with a roof sign and meter.
Hail taxis on the street or find them at designated stands.
Always ensure the driver uses the meter to determine the fare.
Payment methods include cash, WeChat Pay, or Alipay.

Ride-Sharing Didi Chuxing

Didi Chuxing is China's dominant ride-sharing app, similar to Uber.
Didi has an English version, making it user-friendly for visitors.
It offers various services, including Didi Express and Didi Premier.
Didi typically hyperlinks to a Chinese bank card or international credit card.

Safety Guidance

Taxis are generally safe. Always use licensed taxis and confirm the meter runs.
Didi is generally safe. Confirm the license plate and driver name match the app.
The Didi app allows you to share your journey with a trusted contact.

Designated taxi stands are at Changde Taohuayuan Airport and both train stations.
Didi is easy to reach from these locations; the app directs you to pick-up points.
Avoid unmarked "black cabs" or aggressive solicitations.

Fare Structure

Flag Fall

Approximately ¥8-¥12 for the initial 2-3 kilometers.

Per Kilometer

Subsequent kilometers cost around ¥1.8-¥2.4.

Short Ride City Center

A typical short ride costs between ¥10-¥30.

Rental Options

Rental options for self-driving are generally unavailable for foreign tourists due to local licensing laws.

Car & Scooter Rentals

Car rental is not a practical option for most foreign tourists.
A Chinese driver's license is a must; International Driving Permits are not recognized.
Major international rental companies do not rent to foreigners without a valid Chinese license.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals are not commonly available or recommended due to safety.

Bicycle Rentals

Changde features public bicycle sharing systems (e.g., Hellobike, Meituan Bike).
These apps usually require a deposit and real-name verification, often difficult for foreigners.
Obtaining access to sharing apps might create obstacles without a local ID or mobile number.
Some accommodations or inns may offer bicycle rentals to their guests.