Question 1

What is the "Unlicensed Black Cab from Tourist Sites" scam in Beijing?

Accepted Answer

Outside the Summer Palace, Great Wall (Badaling), and other major sites, drivers of unmarked cars solicit tourists with seemingly reasonable fixed prices. Fares are often tripled at the destination, and drivers have been known to lock doors or become threatening when tourists refuse to pay the inflated amount. Use only metered taxis with visible license plates and official signage, or book through DiDi which shows price and driver details upfront. Arrange return transport through your hotel or a pre-booked tour operator.

Question 2

What is the "Pedicab Overcharge at the Hutongs" scam in Beijing?

Accepted Answer

Pedicab drivers near the Hutong alleyways quote a very low price for a tour, then interpret the agreement as per person or per hour, demanding 10x more at the end. Tourists are sometimes driven to a dead end and refused passage until paid. Get the full price in writing before entering any pedicab. Clarify if the price is for all passengers total. Ask your hotel to negotiate a rate on your behalf, or use the official Hutong tour companies.

Taxi & Transport Scams in Beijing

Unlicensed Black Cab from Tourist Sites

Pedicab Overcharge at the Hutongs

Experienced a scam here?