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Getting Around Lishui

Getting Around Lishui

Lishui Zhejiang, China Travel Guide

Public Transportation

Lishui city mainly uses a comprehensive public bus network. The city is without a metro (subway) or tram system.

Bus routes cover the urban core and extend to suburban areas and some nearby attractions.

Routes and Payment

  • Route Maps: Generally available at bus stops and on local navigation apps like Baidu Maps or Amap.
  • Fares: Typically ¥1-3 per trip for most city routes.
  • Payment: WeChat Pay or Alipay via QR code scan is widely accepted. Cash (exact change) is also an option.
  • Hours: Generally operate from early morning (about 6:00 AM) until late evening (about 9:00 PM-10:00 PM).

Important Hubs

Includes Lishui Railway Station, Lishui Long-Distance Bus Station, and various central city squares.

Accessibility

Newer buses may offer low-floor access, but accessibility for mobility challenges is generally limited on older buses and at many bus stops.

Navigation Tips

Use Baidu Maps or Amap of real-time bus info. Learn basic Mandarin phrases or show destination name. Have small cash denominations.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Services
  • Licensed taxis: Usually green or blue, with a "TAXI" sign on top and a meter.
  • Hailing: On the street, at taxi stands (train stations, hotels), or via apps.
  • Fares: Start at ¥8-10 for first few km, then increase. Short city rides ¥10-30. Payment: Cash, WeChat Pay, Alipay.
Ride-Sharing Didi Chuxing
  • Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行): Dominant ride-sharing app in China.
  • Features: Various services (Express, Premier, Taxi booking). English interface. Payment via WeChat Pay or Alipay.
  • Safety: Driver/vehicle info, LOCATION tracking, emergency contact. Ensure match before boarding.

Safety & Airport Arrangements

Taxi Safety

Stick to licensed taxis. Be aware of potential "meter tampering."

Didi Safety

Generally safe. Verify driver and license plate match app info.

Airport Taxis

Dedicated taxi stands at Lishui Railway Station, Long-Distance Bus Station, and airports. Didi is also an option.

Language Barrier

Know destination names in Chinese or use a translation app.

Rental Options

Consider hire choices for greater independence, but know about local regulations.

Car & Motorcycle Rental

  • Car Rental: From major domestic companies (e.g., Shouqi, eHi Car Services).
  • Requirements: A valid Chinese driver'a driving license is mandatory. Foreign driver's licenses or IDPs are NOT accepted for direct rental.
  • Motorcycle and Scooter Rentals: Less frequent for tourists. Similar license restrictions apply.
  • Recommendation: Self-driving is not recommended for most tourists due to license requirements, language barriers, and challenging conditions for driving.

Bicycle & Specialty Rentals

  • Bicycle Sharing: Popular in Lishui (Hellobike, Meituan Bike). Access via apps, requires Chinese phone number, WeChat Pay or Alipay, and often a deposit.
  • Rentals: Some hotels or guesthouses may offer bicycle rentals.
  • Specialty Vehicle Options: Not commonly found. Some scenic areas might have electric shuttle carts or golf carts for internal transport.
  • Safety: Exercise caution due to traffic, pedestrians, and scooters. Helmets are recommended but not always with rentals.

Driving Laws & Parking

  • Driving Laws: Drive on the right. Speed limits are enforced. Seatbelts are mandatory.
  • Drunk driving is strictly prohibited.
  • Parking: Public parking lots are available in urban areas (usually paid). Street parking can be challenging.
  • Road Conditions: Major roads are good. Rural roads might be tight and winding.
  • Traffic: High traffic density and aggressive driving are common.
  • Night Driving: Driving at night in rural areas can be challenging due to poor lighting.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Many areas in Lishui city center are pleasant for walking, particularly along the Oujiang River, through parks, and around cultural sites. Scenic areas like Xiandu and Guyan Huaxiang have well-maintained walking trails.

Walking Tours

Self-guided: Use Baidu Maps or Amap to navigate to points of interest. Guided tours: Less common for Lishui specifically, but some operators might offer packages including walking tours of ancient villages or scenic spots.

Cycling Infrastructure

Some dedicated bicycle lanes exist but often share space with pedestrians or scooters. Exercise exercise caution due to traffic, pedestrians, and scooters. Avoid walking or cycling alone in very remote or poorly lit areas at night.

Specialized Transportation

Lishui has unique transportation for touring and specific locations.

Tour Buses & Water Transport

  • Tour Buses: Official tour buses often operate between Lishui city and major scenic spots like Xiandu Scenic Area or Guyan Huaxiang.
  • These are usually direct point-to-point services rather than hop-on-hop-off.
  • Boat Taxis & Water Transportation: Scenic boat excursions are available within certain attractions, especially in the Xiandu Scenic Region and Guyan Huaxiang.
  • These tours offer views of the landscapes from the sea. They are for sightseeing, not general transportation between distant points.

Cable Cars & Accessibility

  • Cable Cars: May exist at some mountainous scenic areas (e.g., Mount Nanming) to access peaks or viewpoints. Check specific attraction details.
  • Accessibility Services: Generally limited in Lishui, especially in older parts of the city, rural villages, and natural scenic areas with stairs or uneven terrain.
  • Newer hotels and major attractions may have some accessible facilities.
  • Verification in advance is advisable for specific accessibility needs.

Public Transportation Options

City Bus

Main mode of public transit within Lishui, covering urban and suburban areas.

Cost-effective.

Taxi / Didi

Convenient for direct travel, especially with Didi Chuxing's English interface.

On-demand service.

Bicycle Share

Popular for short distances, accessed via apps like Hellobike or Meituan Bike.

Eco-friendly.

Long-Distance Travel

High-Speed Rail
  • Efficient connections to Hangzhou, Shanghai, Wenzhou, and Fuzhou.
  • Book tickets online or at station counters with your passport.
  • Offers Second, First, and Business Class options.
Long-Distance Bus
  • Connects Lishui to cities and towns not served by high-speed rail.
  • A more economical option for inter-city travel.
  • Purchase tickets at the Lishui Long-Distance Bus Station.

Important Safety Notes

  • Always stick to licensed taxis and ensure the meter runs.
  • Exercise caution when cycling due to different traffic behavior.
  • Self-driving is not advised due to complex license requirements and the state of the roads.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings, notably in crowded spots.
  • Keep emergency numbers handy (Police: 110, Ambulance: 120, Fire: 119).
  • Use reliable navigation apps like Baidu Maps or Amap for public transport.
  • A translation app can be invaluable for communicating with drivers.
  • Ensure your phone is charged for navigation and payment apps.

Local Transport Tips

Make the most of your travel within Lishui with these practical suggestions.

Public Bus Advantages

  • Cost-effective for city exploration.
  • Easy mobile payment integration (WeChat Pay/Alipay).
  • Extensive network covering urban and suburban areas.
  • Regular operating hours.

Ride-Sharing Convenience

  • Didi Chuxing offers reliable and traceable rides.
  • English interface in the Didi app simplifies booking for foreigners.
  • Ideal for direct routes or when carrying luggage.
  • Clear pricing and how to pay through integrated mobile payment.

Exploring by Foot or Bike

Pedestrian Zones

Enjoy walks along the Oujiang River and in many city parks.

  • Xiandu Scenic Area.
  • Guyan Huaxiang ancient village.
  • Well-maintained trails.
Bicycle Share Benefits

Convenient for short lengths and exploring local neighborhoods.

  • Hellobike.
  • Meituan Bike.
  • Requires mobile payment.
Safety Awareness

Exercise caution due to mixed traffic (pedestrians, scooters, cars).

  • Be watchful.
  • Use exclusive lanes.
  • Avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Specialized Transport

Tour Buses
  • Direct services between Lishui city and major scenic spots.
  • Not hop-on-hop-off, but convenient for specific destinations.
  • Check local tourism offices for schedules and tickets.
Scenic Boat Tours
  • Available within attractions like Xiandu Scenic Area on the Jinyun River.
  • Offers unique photographic perspectives of landscapes.
  • Mainly for sightseeing, not general transport.

Travel Smart

Lishui's transport system is generally efficient. Combine public buses for daily travel with Didi Chuxing for convenience.

Consider cycling in scenic areas for an immersive experience, always prioritizing safety.

Getting Around Lishui. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental