The Hangzhou Public Bicycle program was launched in  2008. It aims to provide a free public bicycle network for residents and  tourists. It acts as a complement to Hangzhou’s public transit network.  Currently, there are about 69,750 bicycles with 2,962 fixed public bicycle  stations in Hangzhou, which means a station can be found every 300 meters. It  uses smart-card technology with automated check-in and checkout, which will be  quite convenient for users.

Requirements
For renting a bicycle, you need to apply  for a transportation smart card. Application service is available in the Smart  Card Centers which you can find around West Lake. The application would need  your ID card and you need to put an initial 300 Yuan deposit ($ 48) in the card.  

How to use
After getting a smart card, you can rent  and return a bicycle at any public bicycle station. To rent a bicycle, you  simply need to put your card on the reader unit. After the light turns green and  buzzer beeps, a bicycle is unlocked and it’s all yours.

To return a bicycle, all you need to do is to put the bicycle in an  open slot and place your smart card on the machine. After you make sure that the  bicycle is locked, the rental period will be over. You can check on the  self-service machine to see your renting and returning record.

Pricing
The service is free during the first  hour, and costs 1 Yuan / hr ($0.16/hr) during the next two hours. More than  three hours, any additional hours cost 3 Yuan / hr ($0.48/hr). However, during  the day, you can check in and out as many times as you like, so it is possible  for you to ride around the entire city for free.