How to Get to Cixi. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Public Transportation: Buses

Buses form the backbone of Cixi's public transport system. They offer an economical way to explore the urban area and connect to surrounding towns and villages. Cixi does not have its own metro or tram system.

Bus routes are numerous, connecting residential areas, commercial centers, industrial zones, and attractions. Major hubs include Cixi Bus Station (慈溪汽车站) and central commercial areas.

Bus Travel Details

Online maps like Baidu Maps navigation or Amap (高德地图) are optimal tools for navigation. They offer real-time bus information.
Fares typically range from ¥1-3, route and distance dependent. Cash (exact change), a local bus card, or mobile payment (WeChat Pay/Alipay by scanning QR code) are methods of payment.
Most bus lines operate from approximately 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Frequency varies; main routes run frequently (every 5-15 minutes).
Accessibility: Most public buses in Cixi are not fully accessible for wheelchairs. Step-on entry is common.

Efficient Navigation

Use Baidu Maps or Amap to plan routes and check real-time bus locations. Have small cash or mobile payment ready. Know your a place in Chinese.

Mobile Payment

Download Baidu Maps or Amap and practice using them before arrival. These apps are invaluable for local navigation.

Language Aids

Have destination names written down in Chinese to show drivers or locals if there is a language barrier.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Cixi maintains a fleet of licensed taxis, typically colored (e.g., green or blue) with a "TAXI" sign.
You can hail them on the street, especially near busy areas, hotels, and bus stations. Using ride-sharing apps is often simpler.
Fares are metered. Starting fare around ¥8-10 for the initial few kilometers. Payment options include cash, WeChat Pay, or Alipay.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行) is China's dominant ride-sharing platform. It offers services like Didi Express, Premier, and Taxi hailing.
The Didi app includes an English version, which is very convenient for foreign travelers.
Link an international credit card to your Didi account for payment. The app tracks your route, and payment is managed digitally.

Safety Considerations & Tips

Taxi Safety

Generally safe. Confirm the driver uses the meter.

Didi Safety

Generally safe and more transparent. App tracks routes, and driver details are available.

Luggage

Secure luggage, especially in car trunks, before starting your journey.

Route Confirmation

Confirm your destination with the driver before departure to avoid misunderstandings.

Rental Options

Car and scooter rentals are available, but specific requirements apply to foreign visitors. Bicycle sharing maintains popularity as an option.

Car & Motorcycle Rental

Foreigners need a valid Chinese driver's license to rent and drive a car in China. Mainland China does not recognize International Driving Permits (IDPs).
Obtain a temporary Chinese license if eligible, or a full license. This involves passing a written test.
Major domestic car rental companies like Shouqi Car Rental and Dazhong Car Rental, along with international brands, might have branches in Ningbo or Hangzhou.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for tourists and are subject to similar license requirements.

Bicycle Sharing & Driving Laws

Bicycle Sharing: Popular in Cixi. Services like HelloBike (哈啰出行) or Meituan Bike (美团单车) operate via app, linking to Alipay or WeChat Pay, and scanning a QR code.
Driving Laws: Drive on the correct lane for traffic. China enforces strict penalties for drunk driving.
Road Conditions: Major roads are well-maintained. Inner city roads may encounter congestion.
Parking: Available in commercial centers and residential areas, often for a fee.

Rental Recommendation

Car rental is generally not recommended for most short-term foreign visitors.
This is due to the license requirement and local driving conditions.
Bicycle sharing provides a good way to explore local areas for shorter distances.

Electric motorized scooters are widely used by locals but usually not rented to tourists without proper licenses and insurance.
Driving culture can be aggressive. Defensive driving is a good approach.
Remember to use local navigation apps like Baidu Maps or Amap.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

No dedicated hop-on-hop-off tourist bus services operate in Cixi. Local travel agencies may offer group tour services.

Water Transport

Limited to specific scenic areas, like small boats on bodies of water or canals within parks. Not a general mode of transport.

Accessibility Services

Public transport is generally not fully accessible. Newer lodgings could have ramps/elevators. Pre-arranging assistance is suitable for mobility challenges.

Walking & Cycling

Many areas in Cixi are pleasant for walking, especially parks, waterfront promenades (e.g., along the Cixi Grand Canal), and older commercial streets. Newer urban areas feature well-maintained sidewalks.

Walking in Cixi

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas: Parks, waterfront promenades, and ancient commercial lanes are good for walking.
Walking Tour Options: No formal guided walking tours for international tourists. Self-guided tours are feasible with maps and online information.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are vital for discovering by walking.
Exploration Tip: Take time to wander through local markets for an authentic experience.

Cycling in Cixi

Bicycle Infrastructure: Dedicated bicycle lanes are increasingly usual on major roads.
Safety: Electric scooters and bicycles form a significant part of local traffic. Cyclists need awareness of various road users. Helmets are recommended.
No-Go Areas: Major expressways (e.g., G15 Shenhai Expressway) are off-limits for pedestrians and cyclists. Industrial zones are less pleasant.
Route Planning: Use bike-friendly routes on local navigation apps.

Cixi Public Transport Overview

Buses

Extensive network. Main form of transport. Fares ¥1-3.

Payment: Cash, Bus Card, WeChat Pay/Alipay.

Taxis & Didi

Licensed taxis. Didi Chuxing (ride-sharing) is dominant with an English app.

Convenient for longer distances.

Bicycle Sharing

HelloBike, Meituan Bike available via app.

Good for short distances and exploration.

Additional Transport Notes

Temporary Driving License

Foreigners need a Chinese driver's license to drive.
This involves a written test and sometimes a practical one.
Renting a car is generally not recommended for short-term visitors.

Traffic & Safety

Driving culture can be aggressive. Defensive driving is a good approach.
Electric scooters and bicycles are common; extra vigilance is good.
In emergencies, dial 110 (Police), 119 (Fire), or 120 (Ambulance).

Forbidden Zones

Major expressways (e.g., G15 Shenhai Expressway) are off-limits for walkers and cyclists.
Industrial zones may be less pleasant for walking or cycling due to activity and conditions.
Adhere to local signage and restrictions for safe travel.
Avoid walking or cycling in areas clearly marked for vehicle traffic only.

Always use designated pedestrian paths and bicycle lanes where available.
During heavy rainfall or adverse weather, exercise extra caution or use alternative transport.
Be mindful of local traffic patterns, which can differ significantly from your home country.
Pedestrians and cyclists need defensive practices in high-traffic areas.

Final Transit Tip

Cixi's local navigation with The Baidu maps app or Amap is very efficient. Prepare these mobile apps and payment methods before you begin exploring.

Opt for public buses for economy and ride-sharing for speed. Enjoy moving around Cixi.

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