Chengdu's extensive
bus network, including
some restored, wooden-decor coaches, covers every
area of the city between 6am and 10pm for around ¥1-2
a ride. Private
minibuses ply the same routes
with the route number displayed up front. They
charge ¥3 a trip but will pick up and set down at
any point.
Bus maps are on sale from the
usual stalls and hawkers throughout the city.
Taxis orbit transit points and main roads,
and cost ¥7.50 to hire - a trip across town
shouldn't cost more than ¥15. Drivers often want to
negotiate a price rather than use the meter, but
you'll be overcharged this way; you should also
watch out for being driven round in circles.
Anti-pollution laws mean that it's almost impossible
to get a motorbike license in Chengdu, so, unlike in
many other big Chinese cities, bicycles are
still very much in vogue, with well-regulated
bicycle lanes and guarded parking throughout the
city - see "Listings", for rentals. Pedestrians
will find drivers and cyclists very assertive: take
care when crossing roads. You should also stick to
well-lit roads after dark, as muggings occur
from time to time - if threatened, don't resist.