Getting Around Neijiang. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation

Neijiang's public transportation network focuses on an extensive bus system. There are no metro or tram systems currently operating. The bus network covers most city areas, connecting attractions, residential zones, and commercial districts.

Bus routes are typically displayed at stops and aboard buses, often in The chinese language characters. Hubs for transfers are usually found near main train stations (Neijiang Station, Neijiang North Station) and major commercial centers. Baidu Maps or Amap apps are truly helpful for real-time navigation, bus numbers, and estimated arrival times.

Bus Travel Basics

Fares are very affordable, typically 1-3 CNY per ride.
Payment methods: exact cash, local bus card, or WeChat Pay/Alipay (scan A quick response code).
Operate from early morning (around 6 AM) until late evening (9-10 PM).
Accessibility for mobility challenges may be limited on older buses.

Use Navigation Apps

Baidu Maps or Amap are truly helpful for real-time bus information and routes.

Mobile Payment

Set up WeChat Pay or Alipay for the easiest bus fare payments.

Basic Chinese

Familiarity with destination names in Mandarin characters can be very useful.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Services

Licensed taxis are typically green or blue, with meters.
Hailing on the street or at designated stands is common.
Fares start at ~8-10 CNY, with ~1.8-2.5 CNY per km.

Ride-Sharing Didi

Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行) is the dominant service, like Uber.
The Didi app offers an English interface and international credit card linking.
Provides estimated fares upfront and tracks your journey.

Taxi & Didi Safety

Licensed Taxis

Generally safe; ensure the driver uses the meter.

Didi Reliability

Safe and reliable, with journey tracking via the app.

Language Barrier

Show a place in Chinese characters or on map to avoid misunderstandings.

Emergency IDs

Note taxi number/driver ID for any concerns.

Rental Options Limited for Tourists

For most foreign tourists, self-driving car rentals are not a viable option in China due to firm licensing requirements. Motorcycle and scooter rentals are also generally unavailable.

Car Rental with Driver

Foreign visitors cannot legally drive in China without a Chinese driver's license.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not recognized.
Rent a car with a local driver through tour operators or hotels.
This option provides flexibility for day journeys without legal complexities.

Bicycle Rentals

Bicycle sharing programs like HelloBike, Meituan Bike, Didi Bike are popular.
These require respective apps, connected to WeChat Pay or Alipay.
Some larger hotels or local shops might offer bicycle rentals, but it's not a widespread tourist service.
Helmets are not universally worn, but using one is strongly advised for safety.

Walking & Cycling

Many areas are pedestrian-friendly, like Tuojiang River Promenade and People's Park.
Self-guided exploration with navigation apps (Baidu Maps/Amap) is common.
No specific "no-go" areas for pedestrians; avoid busy roads during peak hours.

Some dedicated bike lanes, but roads are often shared with traffic.
Exercise extreme caution when cycling; traffic can be dense and aggressive.
Stay within marked pedestrian areas and smaller streets where possible.

Specialized Transport Not Common

Tour Buses

No dedicated hop-on/hop-off tour buses for international tourists. Local operators cater mostly to domestic visitors.

Water Taxis

No regular boat taxi services on Tuojiang River; occasional sightseeing boats during events.

Unique Transport

Neijiang does not have cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems.

Accessibility Information

Accessibility infrastructure in Neijiang is limited compared to Western standards. Public transportation (buses) and many older sites may not be fully accessible. Newer buildings, major hotels, and high-speed train stations often feature ramps and elevators, but comprehensive accessibility is not widespread.

Challenges for Mobility

Older infrastructure might not have ramps or accessible entrances.
Public buses may have steps or limited space for wheelchairs.
Many historical sites and places of worship may not have full accessibility.
Anticipate difficulties and plan accordingly if you have mobility needs.

Improvements & Planning

Newer hotels and major public buildings often incorporate accessible features.
High-speed train stations typically feature ramps and elevators.
Get in touch with lodgings and attractions directly to inquire about their specific accessibility.
Focus on newer areas of the city for potentially better accessibility.