you've already hads tons of advice, but i'll add just two thoughts:

1. the airport taxi situation is confusing at best. so for the first time, plan to get picked up in advance and sit there in the arrivals (post customs) area, and don't talk to anyone and don't move until the person arrives with something with your name on it, period. next time at the airport, you'll be fine with a taxi.

2. metered taxis are just not a problem. i've taken them innumerable times and never had an issue (other than honestly getting lost looking for my obscure destinations a time or two). even if you think you've got some mandarin, get where you are going written down, and hand it to the driver. if the meter isn't on in 1 block, just point to it.