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Getting Around Dandong

Getting Around Dandong

Dandong Liaoning, China Travel Guide

City Bus Network

Dandong mainly counts on a comprehensive public bus system for local transportation. The city lacks a metro or tram system. The bus network covers most urban areas and extends to attractions, rendering it a cost-effective way to explore.

Main centers for the bus system include the Dandong Railway Station area and various intersections in the city center. Bus stop signs display route numbers and destinations in Chinese characters.

Service Details

  • Fares are typically ¥1-¥2 per ride; exact change often advisable for cash payments.
  • WeChat Pay or Alipay via QR code scanning constitutes the most common payment method.
  • Multi-day passes specifically for tourists are uncommon.
  • Buses operate from early morning (around 6:00 AM) until late evening (typically 9:00 PM-10:00 PM).

Main Hubs

bus hubs comprise the Dandong Railway Station area plus the central area city intersections.

Bus Signs

Bus stop signs display route numbers and destinations in Chinese characters.

Navigation Apps

Use Baidu Maps or Apple Maps for real-time bus routes and arrival estimates.

Accessibility & Navigation

Mobility Access
  • Public buses generally possess limited accessibility features for travelers with mobility impairments.
  • Steps are common for boarding, and wheelchair space is often unavailable.
  • Plan routes and activities carefully if you have specific accessibility conditions.
Planning Routes
  • For efficient navigation, utilize apps like Baidu Maps navigation or Apple Maps.
  • These apps supply real-time bus routes and estimated arrival times.
  • Familiarity with local language characters for bus stops is helpful.

Smart Bus Use

Exact Change

Carry small denominations for bus fares.

Scan QR Code

Utilize WeChat Pay/Alipay for seamless payment.

Check Schedules

Verify operating hours for designated ways.

Local Phrases

Basic Mandarin phrases for assistance.

On-Demand Rides

Taxis and ride-sharing services present convenient and flexible transportation within Dandong. Licensed taxis typically appear green or blue/white, display a "TAXI" sign on the roof, and operate with a fare meter. Hailing them on the street, finding them at designated taxi stands, or booking them using apps are common methods. Avoid hailing taxis during peak hours, like rush hour or mealtimes, as they might experience high demand.

Taxi Cost Structure

  • Taxi fares are metered; insist so that the driver utilizes the meter.
  • An initial flag-down fee, typically ¥7-¥10, covers the first 3 kilometers.
  • A per-kilometer charge of ¥2-¥2.5 follows the initial distance.
  • Payment methods include cash, WeChat Pay, or Alipay.

DiDi Platform

  • DiDi Chuxing constitutes the dominant ride-sharing platform in China.
  • The DiDi app offers an English interface.
  • Link an international credit card or use WeChat Pay/Alipay for payment.
  • DiDi provides driver and vehicle information, and an emergency button.

Security & Access

  • Ensure any taxi taken is a license; photograph the license plate if concerns arise.
  • DiDi generally is a reputation for safety owing to its tracking and customer support.
  • Always avoid unmarked cars offering rides, as these might lack legitimacy or safety.
  • At Dandong Langtou Airport, designated taxi queues are available.
  • At Dandong Railway Station, designated taxi queues exist.
  • DiDi pick-up points typically carry clear marking, simplifying ride procurement.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Car rental lacks practicality for international visitors in Dandong due to Chinese driver's license requirements.

Bike Sharing

Bicycle sharing programs (Meituan, Hello Bike) are available via app, linking to WeChat Pay or Alipay.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Motorcycle/scooter rentals generally unavailable for foreign tourists without a Chinese license.

Active Exploration

Walking and cycling present enjoyable methods to explore Dandong, notably its scenic areas. The Yalu River promenade provides a highly pedestrian-friendly environment, perfect for walking or a leisurely stroll. City parks and green spaces, like Jinjiangshan Park, also offer pleasant walking routes.

Best Walking Spots

  • Yalu River promenade provides great pedestrian areas.
  • City parks and green spaces like Jinjiangshan Park.
  • Central shopping districts are fitting for on-foot exploration.
  • Self-guided walks along the Yalu River are popular.

Tour Options

  • Self-guided walks for exploring on your own.
  • Organized English-language walking tours are limited.
  • Consider hiring a private local guide for a guided experience.
  • Local insights enhance walking tours.

Bike Lane Usage

Dedicated Lanes

Dandong includes some dedicated bike lanes, especially along the Yalu River.

Promotes safer cycling in specific areas.

Road Sharing

Cyclists often share roads with vehicle traffic or utilize sidewalks, necessitating caution.

Situational awareness is paramount.

Safety Zones

Refrain from walking or cycling on major highways or industrial roads for safety considerations.

Prioritize designated pedestrian/bike paths.

Specialized Transportation

Tourist Bus & Cruises
  • Official hop-on-hop-off tourist bus services in English are limited.
  • Local tour operators often present bus tours to specific attractions in the suburbs.
  • Yalu River cruises are a major tourist activity, offering scenic border views.
Unique Systems & Accessibility
  • Dandong city itself lacks cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport.
  • Accessibility services for travelers with mobility needs are generally limited in public transportation.
  • Newer buildings and major attractions may feature ramps and elevators.

Pedestrian Safety Zone

  • Maintain situational awareness when cycling; share roads with vehicle traffic.
  • Avoid major highways or industrial roads for cycling.
  • There are no specific "no-go" areas within the tourist zones of Dandong for pedestrians or cyclists.
  • Be cautious of local driving practices that differ from Western norms.
  • Motorcycles and scooters may appear on sidewalks, posing a hazard.
  • Always look both ways and remain vigilant when crossing streets.
  • Pedestrian crossings may not always receive full respect from drivers.
  • Personal safety should always hold priority.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling present enjoyable methods to explore Dandong, notably its scenic areas. The Yalu River promenade provides a highly pedestrian-friendly environment, perfect for walking or a leisurely stroll. City parks and green spaces, like Jinjiangshan Park, also offer pleasant walking routes.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Yalu River promenade is ideal for walks.
  • Jinjiangshan Park offers pleasant walking routes.
  • Central shopping districts are suitable for exploring on foot.
  • Self-guided walks around attractions are popular.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

  • Some dedicated bike lanes exist, especially along the Yalu River.
  • Cyclists often share roads with vehicle traffic or sidewalks, summoning caution.
  • Maintain situational awareness when cycling in urban areas.
  • Avoid major highways for cycling for safety reasons.

Specialized Transport & Accessibility

Tourist Bus Tours

Local tour operators provide bus tours to attractions outside the city center.

  • Convenient for hard-to-access sites.
  • Often include a guide.
  • Group travel option.
Yalu River Cruises

A major tourist activity, offering scenic views along the border with North Korea.

  • Sightseeing only, not transportation.
  • Unique border perspective.
  • Various trip durations exist.
Accessibility Features

Accessibility services generally hold limited standing in Dandong's public transportation.

  • Newer buildings may include ramps.
  • Overall infrastructure is developing.
  • Careful planning for mobility needs.

Driving Cautionary Notes

Traffic & Road Hazards
  • Dense urban traffic conditions.
  • Driving laws and road conditions differ from many Countries in the west.
  • Parking can present challenges in crowded areas.
Foreigner Driving Restrictions
  • Chinese driver's license is required for legal driving.
  • International Driving Permits (IDPs) lack recognition in mainland China.
  • Self-driving is not a feasible option for most short-term visitors.

Public Transportation Navigation

Navigating Dandong proceeds straightforwardly, with a public bus system, readily available taxis, and popular ride-sharing options. Whether preferring the economy of public transport or the convenience of a private ride, Dandong has several methods to reach your destination.

Bus System Overview

  • Comprehensive municipal bus service covers most urban areas.
  • Network extends to major attractions, offering a cost-effective way to explore.
  • Bus stop signs display route numbers and places in Chinese characters.
  • Buses operate from early morning until late evening (approx. 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM).

Fare & Payment Methods

  • Fares typically range from ¥1-¥2 per ride.
  • Payment in cash (exact change often needed) or digital (WeChat Pay/Alipay).
  • Digital payment via A quick response code scanning is the most common method.
  • Multi-day passes particularly for tourists are uncommon.

Taxi Services

Licensed taxis are metered and available on the street or at designated stands.

DiDi Ride-Sharing

DiDi Chuxing, the dominant ride-sharing platform, includes an English interface and offers various services.

Bike Sharing

Bicycle sharing programs, like Meituan and Hello Bike, exist in Dandong.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas
  • The Yalu River promenade provides a pedestrian-friendly environment.
  • City parks and green spaces like Jinjiangshan Park offer pleasant walking routes.
  • Central shopping districts are good for exploration on foot.
Cycling & Safety
  • Dandong features some dedicated bike lanes, notably by the Yalu River.
  • Cyclists should take care when sharing roads with vehicle traffic.
  • Avoid major highways or industrial roads for riding a bicycle for safety reasons.

Local Transport Insights

For optimal navigation of the bus system, download Baidu Maps to acquire real-time routes and arrival estimates.

When using DiDi or taxis, ensure payment is handled digitally via WeChat Pay or Alipay for ease and transparency.