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Getting around Hangzhou

Public transport: 

The best way to get around the lakeside is on foot or by bicycle. Maps are available from hotels and the Hangzhou Tourist Centre.

A comprehensive bus network plies the city streets but is difficult to negotiate for those who can't speak or read Chinese. If you fancy trying, bus Y1 does a handy circuit of West Lake. The first line of Hangzhou's new metro system will open in 2012. It will connect Hangzhou Central Train Station with the north east corner of West Lake before burrowing into the city.

Taxis: 

Taxis are plentiful, safe and reliable, but drivers don't speak English so remember to carry with you the name and address of your intended destination in Chinese characters so you can show it to the driver when you hail a cab. For the same reason, calling a taxi yourself can be tricky. Your hotel may be able to help. Try Hangzhou Taxis (tel: (571) 2881 1111).

Car hire: 

Car hire is not recommended for foreign travellers as a valid Chinese driving licence is needed for which you must have a residence permit. Companies such as Zhejiang Foreign Affairs Travel Bus Co (tel: (571) 8702 6218) offer car rental with a driver included. However, English-speaking skills will be basic at best.

Bicycle hire: 

Bike-rental kiosks, with rows of bright red bicycles, are all over the city, especially around West Lake. Once you've obtained a swipe card, you can pick up a bike from any kiosk and return it to any other. The first hour is free. After that, it's still very cheap. You will need your passport and a fully returnable deposit to get your swipe card but note that not all the kiosks have facilities to dish out these cards. One that does is on the north-east corner of the lake on Beishan Lu. Also note, you cannot return a bike after the kiosks are closed for the evening.

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