How to Use Didi in China as a Foreigner

DiDi is China’s equivalent of Uber. Practically everyone uses it, and as a traveler, it will be your best friend for door-to-door trips.

Good news: you can use DiDi without a Chinese phone number. Here’s how.

Method 1: Through Alipay or WeChat (Easiest)

If you already have Alipay set up (see the Alipay setup guide):

Open Alipay or WeChat
Scroll down to “Mini Programs” (or search for “DiDi”)
Tap the DiDi mini-program
Allow location access
Set your pickup and destination, choose a ride type, and confirm.

Payment goes through Alipay or WeChat automatically. No Chinese phone number needed.

Method 2: Download the DiDi App

The DiDi app has an English version. Download it from your app store (search “DiDi Rider”). You can register with an international phone number and switch the interface to English in settings.

Payment methods: Alipay, WeChat Pay, Visa/Mastercard (add in-app).

Ride Types

Express (快车): Standard ride, cheapest. Comparable to UberX.
Premier (优享): Slightly nicer cars, a bit more expensive.
Taxi (出租车): Hails a regular taxi through the app. Pay the meter rate digitally.
Luxury (豪华车): High-end cars (Mercedes, BMW). Expensive.
Hiring a Car (包车): Book a driver for multiple hours or a full day.

Tips for Using DiDi

Set your pickup accurately: Drag the pin on the map to exactly where you’re standing. Drivers often can’t find you if the pin is off.
Check the license plate: Match the plate number in the app to the car.
Use the in-app chat: It has built-in translation for communicating with your driver.
Be patient: In busy areas, your driver might be a few minutes away.
Tolls: Highway tolls and airport fees are added to your fare automatically.

What About Uber?

Uber sold its China operations to DiDi in 2016. The Uber app still works in China but only for international travelers, and driver availability is limited. DiDi is the default ride-hailing service — you’ll get faster pickups and better coverage.

Summary: Use DiDi through Alipay or WeChat — no extra app, no Chinese phone number, payment handled automatically. It’s the most convenient way to get around.

Related Guides

How to Get Around China — the complete transport guide
From Airport to City — getting to your hotel
How to Set Up Alipay — pay for DiDi rides