Is bike riding a good way of exploring city life in China?
Like the United States, China is a “nation on wheels” not of automobiles, of course, but of bicycles. Bike riding is, therefore, a good way to explore life in China. Former US President George Bush used to be called “ambassador on the bike” when he served as US liaison officer in Beijing in the 1970s. Bush’s biking experience in Beijing may have something to do with his acclaimed knowledge about China. Here are some tips for biking in China: 1) Ride to the right side of the street; where there are signs for motor and non-motor vehicles, stay in the non-vehicle lane 2) Stop at the line before a red light 3) Carrying a person on the back seat and “hands-free” riding are prohibited. Make a gesture when you want to make a left or right turn 4) Obey instructions by traffic police, and go to the police immediately in the case of an accident 5) Lock your bike during stopovers and leave your bike in a parking lot 6) Try to avert the peak hours of 7:00-8:00 in the morning and 4:00-6:00 in the a
China has for long been known as a “kingdom of bicycles” and bicycles play an important role in Chinese daily life. Riding a bicycle means you have joined the Chinese. A bike will easily take you to alleyways and hutong, where other means of transportation do not usually have access. You can enjoy street scenes, visit small museums of celebrities, and call on residents’ homes. You also have an additional advantage of freedom of movement-you can stop wherever you want. In China, most hotels and travel agencies provide the bike rental serves for visitors, so when you needs, contact those departments. When rent a bike, a valid ID, such as a passport, should be presented. Rent is calculated based on the number of days the bike is used. A deposit is required for each rental. When bikes are returned in good conditions and a refund can be secured with the receipt. Here are some tips for biking in China: • Always ride to the right side of the street • Stop at the line before a red light • Make
