Overview

Didi is China’s dominant ride-hailing platform, similar to Uber. It offers various vehicle options from economy to premium, and is the most convenient way to get a taxi in most Chinese cities.

Didi App Setup

Download and Register

1. Download Didi from app store
2. Select English interface
3. Register with phone number
4. Verify with SMS code

Payment Methods

Recommended for Foreigners:

1. Alipay (easiest)

   • Link to Tour Pass
   • Pay like local

2. International Card

   • Limited acceptance
   • May not work for all rides

3. Cash

   • Pay directly to driver
   • Show destination in Chinese

4. WeChat Pay

   • If you have it working
   • Less reliable for foreigners

Didi Services

How to Book

1. Open Didi app
2. Set pickup location (use map or type)
3. Set destination
4. Choose service type
5. Confirm booking
6. Wait for driver (track on map)
7. Meet driver at pickup point
8. Show destination (in Chinese!)
9. Pay (in-app or cash)

Important Tips

Communication

• Have destination ready in Chinese characters
• Show driver your destination card
• Keep hotel card with address in Chinese

Pickup Points

• Major landmarks work best
• Shopping malls have designated areas
• Outside metro exits may be crowded
• Call driver if needed (in-app translation)

Safety

• Verify license plate matches app
• Sit in back seat
• Share trip with friend (in-app)
• Keep emergency contacts handy

Other Ride Options

Traditional Taxis

• Flag down on street
• Green/blue lights = available
• Insist on meter
• More expensive than Didi

ride以外

• Check hotel concierge
• Ask restaurant to call for you
• Use translation app to show address

Common Scenarios

Airport Pickup

• Use Didi’s airport-specific feature
• Find pickup zone in terminal
• Some airports require walking to parking

Train Station Drop-off

• Don’t get dropped at main entrance
• Use designated Didi zone
• Allow extra time for traffic

Pro Tips

• Didi works in English for the interface
• Destination must be in Chinese or very clear
• Rush hour = higher prices (surge pricing)
• Sometimes taxi is cheaper than Didi

Related Guides

• Metro Systems
• High-Speed Trains
• Essential Apps