Planning a trip to China? Knowing how to say taxi in Chinese can be essential for getting around all cities there, from the airport to the train station and more.
The most common term for taxi in Mainland China is “chū zū chē” (出租车), which literally means “car for rent.”
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In Taiwan and some other regions, people often use “jì chéng chē” (计程车), meaning “car that calculates by distance.”
If you’re traveling in Hong Kong or Guangdong province, you might hear “dí shì” (的士), which is the Cantonese transliteration of the English word “taxi”.
Learning these basic terms can make your travel experience much smoother. Whether you’re hailing a cab on the street or asking your hotel concierge to call one for you, knowing how to say “taxi” in Chinese will help ensure you reach your destination without confusion.
Key Takeaways
- In Mainland China, taxis are called “chū zū chē” (出租车), while Taiwan uses “jì chéng chē” (计程车).
- Cantonese speakers in Hong Kong and Guangdong use “dí shì” (的士), a transliteration of the English word.
- Learning these terms allows travelers to confidently navigate transportation in different Chinese-speaking regions.
Understanding the Chinese Language and Taxi Terminology
Chinese has several different words for “taxi” depending on the region, with variations in pronunciation and characters. These terms reflect both linguistic diversity and practical transportation vocabulary essential for travelers.
The Basics of Mandarin
Mandarin Chinese is the official language of mainland China and Taiwan. It uses a tonal system with four main tones that change the meaning of words.
For travelers, learning basic pronunciation is crucial for effective communication.
The standard word for taxi in Mandarin is 出租车 (chū zū chē), which literally means “rent car.” This term is widely understood throughout mainland China.
Another common term is 计程车 (jì chéng chē), which means “meter car” and is commonly used in Taiwan. This refers to how taxis charge by distance traveled.
Both terms are written using Chinese characters but pronounced differently. Practice with these pronunciations will help travelers communicate their transportation needs clearly.
Key Taxi-Related Terms in Chinese
When taking a taxi in China, these essential phrases will be helpful:
Common Taxi Terms:
- 出租车 (chū zū chē) – taxi (mainland China)
- 计程车 (jì chéng chē) – taxi (Taiwan)
- 的士 (dī shì) – taxi (Cantonese, Hong Kong)
Useful Phrases:
- “我要打车” (wǒ yào dǎ chē) – “I want to take a taxi”
- “请带我去…” (qǐng dài wǒ qù…) – “Please take me to…”
- “多少钱?” (duō shǎo qián?) – “How much?”
In Hong Kong and Guangdong province, people speak Cantonese and often refer to taxis as 的士 (dī shì), which is derived from the English word “taxi.”
When you want to flag a taxi, stand in designated areas and raise your hand clearly. Have your destination written in Chinese characters to overcome language barriers.
Practical Tips for Hailing and Taking a Taxi in China
Taking a taxi in China can be straightforward with the right knowledge. Knowing a few key phrases and understanding the local systems will make your transportation experience much smoother.
Hailing a Taxi on the Streets
To flag down a yellow taxi in China, stand at the roadside where taxis frequently pass and wave your hand. Look for taxis with a red light on the dashboard, which indicates they’re available. Note, not all cities will have the same color for their taxis.
You can yell “出租车 / chū zū chē” which means “taxi” to get their attention.
Many Chinese cities have designated taxi stands, especially near hotels, shopping malls, and train stations.
Be aware that during rush hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM), finding an available taxi becomes more challenging. It’s best to allow extra time during these periods.
In busy areas, it’s helpful to walk to a less crowded street to improve your chances. Some taxis might refuse short trips during peak times, so be prepared with alternative routes.
Using Ride-Hailing Apps
Didi Chuxing is China’s dominant ride-hailing app, essentially the Chinese equivalent of Uber. The app offers an English interface, making it accessible to foreign travelers.
To use Didi:
- Download app to your cell phone before the trip
- Register with your phone number
- Link a payment method (WeChat Pay, Alipay, or international credit card)
- Enter your destination in the app
The app provides estimated fare information upfront, eliminating haggling concerns. It also offers various service levels, from standard taxis to premium cars.
In major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, the app works seamlessly. Drivers receive your exact pickup location, minimizing communication issues.
Communicating with a Taxi Driver
Prepare your destination address in Chinese characters before hailing a taxi. Hotels often provide cards with their address for this purpose.
Basic directional phrases are essential:
- “Go straight” – “直行” (zhí xíng)
- “Turn left” – “左转” (zuǒ zhuǎn)
- “Turn right” – “右转” (yòu zhuǎn)
- “Stop here” – “停在这里” (tíng zài zhè lǐ)
Having your destination marked on a map app can help with navigation. Most drivers understand simple pointing and gestures if language becomes a barrier.
If you’re concerned about the route, simply say “which route” in Chinese: “走哪条路” (zǒu nǎ tiáo lù).
Understanding Taxi Fares and Tips
Taxi fares in China are regulated and generally affordable. Most taxis have a starting fare (usually 10-15 RMB) covering the first 3 kilometers, then charge by distance.
Expect fare variations by:
- Time of day (night rates are higher)
- City (Beijing and Shanghai are more expensive than smaller cities)
- Distance (longer trips may have discounted rates)
Always ensure the driver uses the meter to avoid overcharging. The meter should start running when your journey begins.
Unlike in Western countries, tipping is not customary in China’s taxi culture. Drivers expect to receive exactly the amount shown on the meter.
If you need a receipt (发票 – fā piào), request it before paying. This is especially important for business travelers who need to document expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chinese taxi terms vary by region, with different expressions used in mainland China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. Travelers should learn key phrases for getting a taxi safely in their destination.
How can one ask for a taxi when in mainland China?
In mainland China, one can ask for a taxi by saying “Wǒ yào dǎ chē” (我要打车) which means “I want to take a car.” This is a common phrase understood throughout mainland cities.
Another useful phrase is “Nǐ néng bāng wǒ jiào chūzū chē ma?” (你能帮我叫出租车吗?) meaning “Can you help me call a taxi?” This is helpful when asking hotel staff or locals for assistance.
What is the Mandarin term for a taxi driver?
The Mandarin term for a taxi driver is “chūzū chē sījī” (出租车司机). The word “sījī” (司机) means driver, and can be used for any type of vehicle operator.
In casual conversation, people might simply refer to them as “chē sījī” (车司机) which just means “car driver.”
What is the word for taxi in Taiwanese Mandarin?
In Taiwan, people commonly use the term jìchéng chē (計程車) for taxi. This term literally translates to “meter car,” referring to the meter used to calculate the fare.
This differs from mainland China’s preferred term “chūzū chē” (出租车), though Taiwanese people would still understand the mainland term.
How would you request a taxi in Cantonese?
In Cantonese-speaking regions like Hong Kong, one would request a taxi by saying “Ngóh séung daap dík sih” (我想搭的士) which means “I want to take a taxi.”
The Cantonese word for taxi is “dík sih” (的士). This term is a transliteration of the English word “taxi.” It is widely used in Hong Kong and some parts of Guangdong province.
In what ways can a taxi be hailed in various Chinese-speaking regions?
In most Chinese cities, taxis can be hailed directly from the street. People can do this by raising a hand when they see an available taxi. An available taxi is indicated by a lit sign on the roof.
Mobile apps like Didi Chuxing (similar to Uber) are extremely popular in mainland China and Taiwan. Users can book taxis through these apps without needing to speak Chinese.
In Hong Kong, designated taxi stands are common at shopping centers, hotels, and transportation hubs. People queue for taxis at these stands.
What terminology is used for taxis in both mainland China and Taiwan?
The most standard term across regions is “chūzū chē” (出租车/出租車). It is widely understood in both mainland China and Taiwan, though it’s more commonly used in the mainland.
Taiwan primarily uses “jìchéng chē” (計程車), while mainland China sometimes uses regional terms in different cities. Most Chinese speakers would understand any of the three main terms: chūzū chē, jìchéng chē, or dík sih.
More ways for how to say taxi in Chinese sentences
- 我每天上班都坐出租车，因为它方便快捷。
- 简体字：我每天上班都坐出租车，因为它方便快捷。
- 拼音：Wǒ měi tiān shàng bān dōu zuò chū zū chē, yīn wèi tā fāng biàn kuài jié。
- 英文翻译：I take a taxi to work every day because it’s convenient and fast.
- 他从机场乘出租车回家，路上花了大约30分钟。
- 简体字：他从机场乘出租车回家，路上花了大约30分钟。
- 拼音：Tā cóng jī chǎng chéng chū zū chē huí jiā, lù shàng huā le dà yuē 30 fēn zhōng。
- 英文翻译：He took a taxi from the airport to go home, and it took about 30 minutes.
- 出租车司机通常对城市路况非常熟悉。
- 简体字：出租车司机通常对城市路况非常熟悉。
- 拼音：Chū zū chē sī jī tōng cháng duì chéng shì lù kuàng fēi cháng shú xī。
- 英文翻译：Taxi drivers are usually very familiar with the city’s traffic conditions.
- 她在雨天叫了一辆出租车，以免淋湿。
- 简体字：她在雨天叫了一辆出租车，以免淋湿。
- 拼音：Tā zài yǔ tiān jiào le yī liàng chū zū chē, yǐ miǎn lín shī。
- 英文翻译：She called a taxi on a rainy day to avoid getting wet.
- 出租车的计价器显示车费是50元。
- 简体字：出租车的计价器显示车费是50元。
- 拼音：Chū zū chē de jì jià qì xiǎn shì chē fèi shì 50 yuán。
- 英文翻译：The taxi meter showed that the fare was 50 yuan.
