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China · Taxi & CarsDiDi
DiDi is China’s main ride-hailing service, with an English app and an Alipay mini program that let foreign visitors book cars by destination, chat with auto-translation and pay with a foreign card.
What it helps with
- Calling a taxi in China without speaking ChineseThe DiDi app and the DiDi mini program in Alipay work in English; you enter the destination and the driver follows the map.
- Talking to the driverIn-app messages are translated automatically, and a ready-made Chinese note tells the driver you do not speak Chinese.
- Paying without cashVisa and Mastercard can be linked in the app, or the ride is paid through Alipay or WeChat Pay with a linked foreign card.
About DiDi
DiDi Chuxing operates ride-hailing and taxi booking across mainland China. Foreign visitors use the English “DiDi - Greater China” app, registering with an international phone number, or the DiDi mini program inside Alipay. Visa and Mastercard can be linked directly, or rides are paid through Alipay or WeChat Pay. Messages to the driver are translated automatically.
Key Features
- English interface: The app and Alipay mini program can be used in English.
- Foreign phone number: Registration works with an international number.
- Auto-translation: Chat with the driver is translated into Chinese.
- Card payment: Visa, Mastercard, Alipay or WeChat Pay.
How to Get Started
- Install DiDi - Greater China before arrival, or open DiDi inside Alipay.
- Register with your phone number and add a payment method.
- Enter the destination and choose the car type to see the fare.
- Meet the driver at the pickup point and check the plate number.
Before you use it
- Sign-up: Install “DiDi - Greater China” before arrival on Android, because Google Play is not available in mainland China.
- Payment: Linking a foreign card in the app places a small pre-authorisation that is released afterwards; paying through Alipay is often more reliable.
- Good to know: Drivers may call instead of messaging; use the quick-message button to send a Chinese note asking them to follow the map.
Foreign card OK
English available
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Does DiDi work with a foreign bank card in China?
- Yes - DiDi accepts foreign-issued cards in China.
- Is DiDi available in English?
- Yes, DiDi has an English-language interface.
- Do I need a local phone number to use DiDi?
- No, an international phone number generally works for DiDi.
- Do I need local ID or residency for DiDi?
- No, DiDi doesn't require local ID or residency for visitors.
- Where can I use DiDi?
- iOS · Android
- How much does DiDi cost?
- Fare by distance and time shown before booking; no fee for paying in the app
Phrases for the driverChinese (China)
Saved only on this device.
Tap to hear it or to show it in large letters.
- Please take me to this address (show it on the map) 请带我去这个地址。 Qǐng dài wǒ qù zhège dìzhǐ.
- How much will it cost? 多少钱？ Duōshao qián?
- Please turn on the meter 请打表。 Qǐng dǎ biǎo.
- Can I pay with Alipay? 可以用支付宝吗？ Kěyǐ yòng Zhīfùbǎo ma?
- Stop here, please 请在这里停车。 Qǐng zài zhèlǐ tíngchē.
- Thank you 谢谢。 Xièxie.