Getting Around Dazhou. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Bus Network Overview

The municipal bus network the backbone of Dazhou's urban transit. Buses cover the city's city center and reach to many suburban areas.

This an affordable and practical method of transportation the city.

Features

Extensive network.
Covers urban and suburban areas.
Affordable fares.
No metro or tram system.

Digital Maps

Baidu Maps navigation or Gaode Maps for real-time bus info.

Major Hubs

Dazhou Railway Station, Dazhou Bus Station converge many lines.

Accessibility

Limited features for mobility challenges on public buses.

Fares & Payments

Fares

Low, CNY 1-3 per ride.
Predominantly flat fare system.
Operates 6 AM to 9-10 PM.

Payment Methods

Cash (exact change).
WeChat Pay / Alipay (scan QR code).
Local transportation card (optional).

Bus Travel Tips

Use Digital Apps

Baidu or Gaode Maps always.

Mobile Payment

Set up WeChat Pay/Alipay.

Exact Change

Important if paying with cash.

Avoid Peak

Reduces crowded buses.

Taxis & DiDi Guide

Taxis and ride-ride-sharing apps provide convenient and relatively affordable options for getting around Dazhou.

Taxis

Licensed taxis: green or yellow.
Always use the meter.
Cash, WeChat Pay, Alipay accepted.
Hail on street or at stands.

DiDi Chuxing

Dominant ride-sharing app (like Uber).
Requires Chinese phone number, mobile payment.
In-app translation.
LOCATION tracking for safety.

Safety Considerations

Taxis: Ensure driver uses meter.
DiDi: Provides driver & vehicle info.
Airport/Station: Use designated kiosks or DiDi app.

Avoid flat fare negotiation in taxis.
LOCATION tracking in DiDi a safety layer.
In-app emergency button for DiDi.

Price Comparison

Taxi Start Rate

CNY 6-10 (first few km).

Per Km Rate

CNY 1.8-2.5 after initial distance.

DiDi Pricing

Similar to taxis, often more transparent.

Personal Vehicle Rentals

Hire choices for personal vehicles limited for foreign tourists in Dazhou licensing requirements.

Car Rental Rules

Valid Chinese driving license mandatory.
IDPs NOT recognized in mainland China.
Most tourists cannot rent and drive.
Domestic companies: Shouqi, Car Inc.

Motorcycle & Scooter

Requires Chinese motorcycle license.
Electric scooters common for locals.
Challenging for foreigners to set up.
Limited formal bicycle sharing.

Driving & Road Insight

Driving Laws

Drive on right, observe speed limits.

Road Quality

Good within city and on major highways.

Parking

Available, but challenging in busy areas.

Walking & Cycling

Walking Exploration

City center, parks, riverfront are walkable.
Phoenix Mountain Park, Lotus Lake Park.
Self-guided walks with Baidu/Gaode Maps.

Cycling in Dazhou

Limited dedicated bicycle lanes.
Share roads/sidewalks with traffic/pedestrians.
Always wear a Helmet when cycling.

Safety Considerations

Busy highways not for cycling/walking.
Traffic awareness is for pedestrians.
Remain vigilant to local driving habits.
Use caution in high-traffic areas.

Cross streets carefully.
Sidewalk conditions can vary.
No formal guided tours for walking.
Personal safety vigilance.

Local Exploration Tip

For a truly local experience, take a public bus to a busy market.

Then explore the surrounding streets on foot.

Where to Stay in Dazhou

Next Up: Where to Stay in Dazhou. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation

Continue to Where to Stay in Dazhou