Wendy Zhang/ Shanghai Daily news

A poor transportation and vehicle maintenance network, a lack of personal security and excessive numbers of toll stations often annoy domestic travelers driving on their own, the Beijing Morning Post reported today.
Unlike the major highways, the conditions of county or countryside roads are not satisfactory, with no lights on many roads, said Chen, a Beijinger who prefers traveling in her own car. A lack of special rest areas on the highways is also a problem, she said, adding that the booking systems at many scenic spots are unsatisfactory, especially for economy hotel reservations, parking spaces, maintenance centers and medical services.
Far fewer auto clubs link the nation, with such places only located in large cities. If encountering emergencies outside the city, there is much trouble, said Zhang, who has traveled in his own car five times, adding that many tourists on driving tours are often robbed or hurt in the countryside.
An abundance of toll stations also harass drivers. Five jiao (US$0.06) is charged for each kilometer of driving on average, and with gasoline charges, expenses are often higher than traveling by train, said Li Changqing, an industry analyst.