DiDi Ride-Hailing
DiDi is the default ride-hailing tool in Chinese cities. It removes the language friction of street taxis and is often the easiest way to get from airport, station, hotel, and restaurant without negotiation.
Why You Need This
DiDi is usually easier than flagging taxis because the app handles pickup, destination entry, and payment in one place. That removes a lot of the language friction that can slow down first-time visitors.
It is also often cheaper and more predictable than a traditional taxi, especially if you are unfamiliar with the city or arriving late.
App Setup
- Download DiDi from the App Store or Google Play.
- Register with your foreign phone number and verification code.
- Link payment, since international credit cards are now accepted.
- Add a profile photo if you want it to be easier for drivers to identify you at pickup.
How to Use It
- Enter your destination. English often works in major cities, but pins are more reliable than text alone.
- Select a car type. Express (快车) is the cheapest and most common choice.
- Wait for driver assignment, which is often under two minutes.
- Check the license plate before getting in.
- Let payment run automatically after the ride.
Car Types
Express (快车) is the standard private-car option and the cheapest default.
Premier (专车) gives you higher-end vehicles and more professional drivers, while Taxi (出租车) lets you call a traditional taxi through the app itself.
Six-seater (六座) is the useful option for groups or travelers carrying a lot of luggage.
Pro Tips
Take a screenshot of the driver info before the ride.
Share the trip with a friend using the in-app feature.
Pin your location carefully because sloppy pickup pins are a common source of confusion.
Learn “I am here” in Chinese: “Wǒ zài zhèlǐ” (我在这里).
Rate drivers honestly because the system does respond to ratings.
Safety First
Always check that the license plate matches the app.
Sit in the back seat rather than the front.
Share your trip with someone if possible.
Use the official DiDi app only and ignore clones or side-loaded copies.
The emergency button is built into the app if you need it.
Set Up the App Before You Need It
The transport guide explains how to use Didi, but the app guide covers payments and setup in more detail.
Open the Didi App Guide →