Question 1

What is the "Illegal Taxi Scam" scam in Xian?

Accepted Answer

Unlicensed drivers approach tourists outside Xian North Railway Station and near the Terracotta Warriors, offering rides at seemingly good rates. They take passengers to unknown attractions and shops — and some tourists have been robbed. Legitimate Xian taxis are painted yellow or partial yellow with green. Only take official metered taxis. Say "qing da biao" (please use the meter) before the car moves. Use Didi for transparent upfront pricing. Ignore anyone who approaches you offering a ride outside the taxi rank.

Question 2

What is the "Rickshaw Overcharging from Muslim Quarter" scam in Xian?

Accepted Answer

Rickshaw operators stationed at the entrance to the Muslim Quarter on Beiyuanmen Street offer rides to the Terracotta Warriors site or other major attractions at verbally agreed prices, then dramatically inflate the fare upon arrival, claiming the quoted price was "per person" or for only part of the journey. Drivers sometimes take longer routes through narrow hutong lanes to justify higher charges. Disputes can become confrontational, with the driver blocking access to luggage or calling associates. Agree on the total fare in writing before boarding and confirm it covers the complete journey for all passengers. Better practice is to use the official tourism bus (line 914 or 915) from Xi'an Railway Station to the Terracotta Warriors, which is metered and clearly priced. Avoid rickshaws for long-distance trips between major sites.

Taxi & Transport Scams in Xian

Illegal Taxi Scam

Rickshaw Overcharging from Muslim Quarter

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