Traveling around China can be surprisingly convenient, even if you don't speak Chinese. In major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Chengdu, and Chongqing, ride-hailing apps make it easy to travel between hotels, attractions, restaurants, and train stations.
One of the most useful apps for international visitors is DiDi (滴滴出行), China's widely used ride-hailing service.
If you're visiting China for the first time, you might be wondering:
Can foreigners use DiDi in China?
Do I need a Chinese phone number?
Can I pay with an international credit card?
Is DiDi available in English?
How do I find my driver at an airport?
This guide explains everything you need to know about using DiDi in China in 2026.
1. What Is DiDi in China?
DiDi is a ride-hailing platform that allows passengers to book transportation through a smartphone.
It works similarly to Uber or Grab in other countries.
Instead of trying to explain your destination to a taxi driver, you can enter the address directly into the app, choose a vehicle category, and request a ride.
Depending on the city and availability, DiDi offers several service categories, including:
Express: Standard everyday ride-hailing vehicles.
Taxi: Licensed taxis booked through the app.
Premier: Higher-comfort vehicles and services.
Luxe: Premium transportation options where available.
For most international tourists, Express is a practical choice for everyday journeys.
2. Can Foreign Tourists Use DiDi in China?
Yes. Foreign tourists can use DiDi in mainland China.
You do not necessarily need a Chinese phone number or a Chinese bank account.
China's official guidance for international visitors confirms that the DiDi app supports registration using overseas mobile phone numbers and international credit cards.
However, successful registration and payment may depend on your phone number, card issuer, app version, and verification requirements.
It is a good idea to complete your setup before your first ride.
3. How to Download and Register for DiDi
Step 1: Download the App
Search for the official DiDi ride-hailing app in the Apple App Store or Google Play, where available.
The app's displayed name may vary by region. Look for the official DiDi ride-hailing service for mainland China.
Alternatively, you may be able to access ride-hailing services through Alipay or WeChat.
Step 2: Register with Your Phone Number
Open the app and follow the registration instructions.
Select your country or region code, enter your mobile phone number, and complete any required verification.
Travel tip: Make sure your registered number can receive verification messages while you are traveling in China.
Step 3: Set Up Your Payment Method
Open the payment settings and check which international cards are supported.
Depending on the app version and payment channel, you may be able to add an eligible international credit card.
If you already use Alipay or WeChat Pay, their ride-hailing services may provide an alternative.
Step 4: Enable Location Services
Allow the app to access your location while you are using it.
This helps the app identify your pickup point and display nearby vehicles.
Before confirming a ride, always check that the pickup location is correct.
4. How to Book Your First DiDi Ride
Once your account is ready, booking a ride is straightforward.
Step 1: Enter your destination.
Search for your hotel, attraction, restaurant, or train station.
Major landmarks and hotel names may be searchable in English, but keeping the Chinese address is useful.
Step 2: Confirm your pickup location.
Check the map carefully.
In large cities, the app may direct you to a designated pickup point rather than your exact current location.
Step 3: Choose your vehicle.
Compare the available ride categories, estimated waiting times, and displayed fares.
Step 4: Request your ride.
Confirm your selection and wait for the app to match you with a driver.
Step 5: Check the vehicle details.
Before entering the car, compare the license plate and vehicle information with the details shown in the app.
Step 6: Complete your journey.
Follow the payment instructions in your selected booking channel and check your final fare.
5. Can You Use DiDi in English?
DiDi provides English-language functionality for international users, although the exact interface depends on the app version and region.
Some location names, pickup instructions, and driver communications may still appear in Chinese.
To make your trip easier:
Save your hotel's name and address in Chinese.
Keep screenshots of important destinations.
Use the app's messaging or translation features when available.
Ask hotel staff for help if a pickup location is difficult to identify.
You do not need to speak fluent Chinese to use ride-hailing services, but a little preparation makes a big difference.
6. How to Pay for DiDi in China
Payment is one of the most common concerns for first-time visitors.
Fortunately, there are several possible options.
International Credit Cards
The DiDi service for mainland China supports eligible international credit cards.
Before traveling, check that your card is enabled for international and online transactions.
Your bank may still decline an individual payment or request additional verification.
Alipay
Alipay is another convenient option for visitors.
Depending on the available services, you can open Alipay, select the transport or taxi function, enter your destination, and request a ride.
WeChat also provides access to ride-hailing services.
Look under its Services section for the available mobility or ride-hailing entry.
Important: Payment options and supported cards can vary. Check the payment method before booking, rather than assuming every card will work automatically.
7. How Much Does DiDi Cost in China?
DiDi fares depend on several factors:
City and travel distance
Traffic conditions
Vehicle category
Time of day
Driver availability
Tolls and other applicable charges
The app normally displays an estimated fare before you confirm a booking.
Prices can increase during busy periods, major holidays, or periods of high demand.
For accurate planning, compare the current fare estimates inside the app.
If you're traveling with several people, remember to consider luggage space and vehicle capacity as well as the price.
8. Can You Use DiDi at Chinese Airports?
Yes, ride-hailing services are available at many major airports in China.
However, airport pickups can be more complicated than ordinary city rides.
Large airports often have designated ride-hailing pickup areas, which may be separate from the regular taxi queue or passenger arrivals hall.
Tips for Airport Pickups
Connect to mobile data before leaving the terminal.
Confirm the correct airport and terminal.
Follow signs to the designated ride-hailing pickup area.
Check the pickup point shown in the app.
Keep your phone accessible in case the driver contacts you.
Allow extra time if you have several suitcases or are traveling with children.
For first-time visitors: After a long international flight, a prearranged private airport transfer may be more convenient, especially when traveling with family members or arriving late at night.
9. Is DiDi Safe for Foreign Tourists?
DiDi is a commonly used transportation option in China.
As with ride-hailing services anywhere in the world, travelers should follow basic safety precautions.
Before entering the vehicle, verify the license plate and car details.
Use the official booking platform rather than accepting unsolicited rides from strangers at airports or railway stations.
Keep your personal belongings with you, and use available trip-sharing or safety features when appropriate.
If you experience a problem, contact support through the booking platform.
10. Common DiDi Problems and How to Solve Them
Problem: You Cannot Receive a Verification Code
Check that you selected the correct international dialing code.
Make sure your phone can receive SMS messages while overseas.
If necessary, contact your mobile provider about international messaging.
Problem: Your International Card Is Declined
Check whether overseas transactions are enabled.
Try another supported card or a different available payment channel.
Contact your bank if it requires transaction approval.
Problem: The Driver Cannot Find You
Check the pickup marker on the map.
Look for a nearby designated pickup area or recognizable landmark.
If needed, use the app's messaging features or ask hotel staff to help communicate your location.
Problem: The Driver Calls You in Chinese
Keep your destination and pickup address written in Chinese.
If you cannot communicate by phone, use available in-app messaging or translation features.
Problem: The Vehicle Is Too Small for Your Group
Check the passenger and luggage capacity before booking.
For families with several large suitcases, booking a suitable larger vehicle or arranging private transportation may be easier.
11. DiDi vs Private Transportation: Which Is Better?
DiDi is convenient for short city journeys, but it is not always the best choice for every travel situation.
| Travel Situation | Suggested Option |
|---|---|
| Short trips within a city | DiDi |
| Visiting one restaurant or attraction | DiDi |
| Traveling between nearby city locations | DiDi |
| Airport arrival with several suitcases | Prearranged transfer |
| Family trip with young children | Private transportation may be more convenient |
| Multi-attraction sightseeing day | Private car with driver |
| Traveling to remote scenic areas | Prearranged transportation |
For example, if you're spending a day exploring central Shanghai, ride-hailing can be a convenient option.
But if you're planning a full-day trip with several attractions, a private driver may help reduce waiting time and simplify logistics.
The right choice depends on your travel style, group size, and itinerary.
12. Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners use DiDi in China in 2026?
Yes. International visitors can use DiDi in mainland China, subject to account registration and payment requirements.
Do I need a Chinese phone number for DiDi?
Not necessarily. The DiDi service for mainland China supports registration using overseas mobile phone numbers.
Can I use Visa or Mastercard with DiDi?
Eligible international credit cards may be supported. Availability and successful payment depend on the app, payment channel, and card issuer.
Is DiDi available in English?
English-language functionality is available for international users, although some location information and communications may still appear in Chinese.
Can I book DiDi from Beijing or Shanghai airport?
Ride-hailing services operate at major airports, but you must follow the designated pickup arrangements for your terminal.
Is DiDi better than taking a taxi?
Both can be convenient. DiDi makes it easier to enter destinations and view booking details through an app, while a regular taxi can be useful when you prefer not to book through your phone.
Can I use DiDi for sightseeing in China?
Yes, particularly for individual city attractions. For full-day sightseeing or remote destinations, private transportation may offer more flexibility.
13. Explore China with Less Transportation Stress
Getting around China doesn't have to be complicated.
With DiDi, high-speed trains, metro systems, and domestic flights, international visitors have many ways to explore the country.
Still, transportation is only one part of planning a great China trip.
At SEEK CHINA TRAVEL (SCT), we create private and tailor-made journeys for international visitors.
Whether you're exploring Beijing's historic landmarks, discovering Xi'an's ancient culture, visiting the dramatic landscapes of Zhangjiajie, or enjoying the scenery around Guilin, we can help arrange the practical details of your journey.
Depending on your itinerary, our services can include:
Private airport transfers
Comfortable transportation with local drivers
Professional English-speaking guides
Hotel arrangements
Sightseeing and local experiences
Multi-city itinerary planning
No unnecessary shopping stops. No hidden fees.
Discover China. Your Way.
Travel information is based on publicly available guidance and may change. Check current app features, payment requirements, and airport pickup arrangements before traveling.