Getting around China can be surprisingly convenient once you know which transportation apps to use. In major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu and Guangzhou, ride-hailing services make it easy to travel between hotels, restaurants, railway stations and tourist attractions without having to negotiate a taxi fare on the street.

For international visitors, however, the first ride can raise a few questions. Which app should you download? Can you register with a foreign phone number? Will your international credit card work? What should you do if the driver calls and speaks only Chinese?

The good news is that foreign travelers can use several ride-hailing options in China, including DiDi, Alipay and WeChat. The Chinese government's travel guidance also explains how international visitors can book rides through these services and use international phone numbers and bank cards with DiDi-Greater China.

This guide walks you through the process step by step, from setting up your account before arrival to booking your first ride, finding your driver and handling common problems. Whether you are exploring a historic neighborhood in Beijing, visiting the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an or discovering Chengdu's food streets, these practical tips will help you travel around China with greater confidence.

1. What Are China's Main Ride-Hailing Apps?

Ride-hailing apps work in a similar way to Uber or Lyft. You enter your pickup location and destination, choose a vehicle or service category, confirm the booking and meet the assigned driver.

In China, the main options for international travelers are DiDi, Alipay and WeChat.

DiDi: The Most Practical Starting Point for Foreign Visitors

DiDi (滴滴出行) is one of the most widely used ride-hailing platforms in China. It connects passengers with licensed taxi and private-car services through a mobile app.

For international travelers, DiDi is often the easiest place to start because the Greater China service supports foreign mobile phone numbers and international bank cards. It also offers several vehicle categories, allowing you to choose between standard rides and more premium options.

Common service categories may include:

• Express (快车): A standard private-car ride, often suitable for everyday city travel.

• Taxi (出租车): A traditional licensed taxi booked through the app.

• Premier (礼橙专车): A more premium car service, depending on local availability.

• Luxe: A higher-end vehicle option in cities where it is offered.

The exact names, availability and prices may vary by city and app version.

For most first-time visitors, DiDi is a useful primary option because you can enter your destination in advance and see the assigned vehicle and driver details in the app.

Alipay: Book a Ride Without Switching Apps

Alipay (支付宝) is widely used for mobile payments in China. International visitors can also use its transport-related services to book rides.

A typical booking route is:

1. Open Alipay.

2. Find Transport or the relevant travel service.

3. Select Taxi.

4. Enter your pickup location.

5. Enter your destination.

6. Review the available ride options and confirm.

The exact menu position and wording may differ depending on your app version, account and location.

Alipay is particularly convenient if you have already set it up for payments before your trip. You can use one app for many everyday travel needs, including eligible transport services and other purchases.

WeChat: Another Way to Access Ride-Hailing

WeChat (微信) is more than a messaging app. Its Services section and mini-programs can provide access to transport and ride-hailing functions.

A common route is:

1. Open WeChat.

2. Tap Me.

3. Select Services.

4. Look for Mobility, Ride Hailing or a related transport service.

5. Enter your pickup and destination.

6. Follow the prompts to confirm the ride.

The available options can vary by account, city and app version. If you cannot find the ride-hailing feature, use DiDi directly or try the transport service available in Alipay.

Which App Should You Choose?

Practical recommendation: Set up DiDi as your main ride-hailing option and keep Alipay or WeChat available as alternatives. You do not need to install every transport app before traveling.

2. How to Prepare Before Arriving in China

A little preparation can make your first ride much easier. Ideally, set up your essential apps while you still have reliable internet access and time to resolve verification or payment problems.

Download the Right DiDi App

Search for the official DiDi Greater China ride-hailing service in your phone's app store. App names and listings can change, so check the developer information and official listing rather than downloading an unfamiliar copy.

Do not assume that an app with a similar name is the correct service for mainland China. If you are unsure, check DiDi's official website or app-store information.

It is best to install and test the app before your journey. App availability can vary depending on your phone's app-store region.

Register With Your Phone Number

Foreign travelers can register for DiDi using supported international mobile phone numbers.

A typical registration process involves:

1. Opening the app.

2. Selecting your country or region code.

3. Entering your mobile phone number.

4. Receiving an SMS verification code.

5. Entering the code to complete registration.

Make sure your number can receive SMS messages, including while traveling abroad.

You do not necessarily need a mainland Chinese phone number, but you should check whether your number and carrier are supported before departure.

Set Up Your Payment Method

Payment is one of the most important things to prepare.

The official Chinese government guidance lists international bank cards as a supported registration and payment option for DiDi-Greater China. Alipay and WeChat may also provide ride-hailing access through their respective services.

Before your trip:

• Check whether your international card is supported.

• Confirm that overseas and online transactions are enabled.

• Make sure your card has not expired.

• Complete any required identity or payment verification.

• Keep a backup payment method available.

Payment acceptance can depend on the card issuer, account verification, service type and booking channel. Do not assume that a card linked to one app will automatically work in every other app.

Check Your Internet Connection

Ride-hailing apps need an internet connection to display maps, receive driver details and update the vehicle's location.

Before leaving your hotel or airport, make sure your mobile data or Wi-Fi is working.

If you plan to use an international SIM or eSIM, check its coverage and data arrangements for mainland China. Also allow the ride-hailing app to access your location while using it.

3. How to Book a DiDi Ride Step by Step

Once your account and payment method are ready, booking a ride is relatively straightforward.

Step 1: Open DiDi and Set Your Pickup Location

Open the app and allow location access.

The app may use your GPS position to suggest a pickup point. Check that the suggested location is correct before continuing.

This is especially important at airports, railway stations, shopping malls and large tourist attractions, where the nearest road or pickup area may be different from the building entrance.

If necessary, adjust the pickup point manually.

Step 2: Enter Your Destination

Enter the name or address of your destination in the search field.

You can try entering an English place name first. If the result is unclear, use the Chinese name or address.

For important destinations, save the Chinese address in your phone before traveling. This can be useful if the app does not recognize an English hotel name or attraction.

For example, if you are staying at a hotel in Beijing, make sure you select the correct branch or entrance rather than another hotel with a similar name.

Step 3: Check the Pickup and Drop-Off Points

Before requesting a car, review both locations carefully.

Ask yourself:

• Is the pickup point on the correct side of the road?

• Is it near the correct airport terminal or station exit?

• Does the destination point lead to the correct entrance?

• Is the location accessible to a vehicle?

A pin placed on the wrong side of a large road can make it difficult for you and the driver to meet.

Step 4: Choose a Vehicle Type

Select the service that suits your budget and travel needs.

For ordinary city journeys, a standard Express ride or taxi may be sufficient. If you have several suitcases, are traveling with family or prefer a more comfortable vehicle, check whether a larger or premium option is available.

Prices and vehicle availability vary according to city, distance, demand and time of day.

Step 5: Confirm Your Booking

Review the ride information and confirm the request.

Once a driver accepts, the app should display information such as:

• Driver name or profile.

• Vehicle model.

• License plate number.

• Estimated arrival time.

• Pickup location.

• Live vehicle location.

Keep the app open or allow notifications so you can follow the driver's progress.

Step 6: Find the Correct Vehicle

When the driver arrives, check the license plate shown in the app before getting into the car.

Do not enter a vehicle simply because someone approaches you and says they are your driver.

If you cannot find the car, use the in-app messaging function or the available contact option to clarify the meeting point.

Step 7: Complete the Journey and Check the Payment

After arriving, follow the payment instructions shown in the app.

If you have linked a supported payment method, the fare may be processed electronically through the selected service.

Check your trip history or payment record if you need to review the fare or obtain a receipt.

4. How to Use Alipay or WeChat to Call a Taxi

Some travelers prefer to book rides through Alipay or WeChat rather than opening a separate ride-hailing app.

This can be convenient if you already use these apps for everyday payments.

Booking a Ride Through Alipay

A typical process is:

1. Open Alipay.

2. Tap Transport.

3. Select Taxi or the available ride-hailing service.

4. Confirm your current pickup point.

5. Enter your destination.

6. Review the available options.

7. Confirm the booking.

The service may be provided through a mini-program or integrated transport platform.

If the menu looks different, use the app's search function to look for taxi or ride-hailing services.

Booking a Ride Through WeChat

A typical process is:

1. Open WeChat.

2. Tap Me.

3. Open Services.

4. Find Mobility or Ride Hailing.

5. Enter your pickup and destination.

6. Review the ride details and confirm.

Some features may require additional account permissions or payment setup.

Should You Use the DiDi App or a Mini-Program?

Both can be useful, but the standalone DiDi service is a practical choice if you want a more direct ride-booking experience.

The mini-program route is convenient when you are already using Alipay or WeChat. However, the interface, available vehicle types and payment flow may differ.

If you are new to China, start with the app you have successfully registered and tested before arrival.

5. How to Pay for Ride-Hailing in China With a Foreign Bank Card

Many international travelers worry that they will need a Chinese bank account to pay for a taxi.

In many cases, this is not necessary. China's official travel guidance states that DiDi-Greater China supports international bank cards for foreign travelers.

However, payment setup should be completed before you rely on the service.

Can You Use Visa or Mastercard?

DiDi's support for international bank cards means that eligible foreign-issued cards can be used, subject to the supported card network, issuing bank and account verification.

Check the payment page in the app to see which card types are currently accepted.

If your card is declined, check:

• Whether international online payments are enabled.

• Whether your bank has blocked the transaction.

• Whether the billing information is correct.

• Whether the card requires additional verification.

• Whether the booking channel supports that payment method.

A successful card link does not guarantee that every transaction will be approved.

Can You Pay Through Alipay?

International visitors can set up Alipay with eligible overseas bank cards.

If you use Alipay to access a ride-hailing service, the payment process will follow the method shown in that service.

Check that your card is linked correctly and that the ride service has access to the payment method.

Can You Pay Through WeChat Pay?

WeChat Pay also supports eligible international bank cards, subject to verification and current service conditions.

If you book through a WeChat ride-hailing service, check the payment method before confirming the ride.

Should You Carry Cash?

It is sensible to carry a small amount of RMB as a backup for situations where mobile payment is unavailable or a different transport option is needed.

However, do not assume that every app-based ride can be paid in cash. Follow the payment instructions displayed in your booking.

6. How to Communicate With Your Driver if You Do Not Speak Chinese

You do not need to speak fluent Chinese to use a ride-hailing app, but a few simple preparations can prevent confusion.

Use the App's Messaging Function

If the driver sends a message, check whether the app provides translation or a language-support function.

You can also use a translation app to prepare a short message in Chinese.

For example:

• I am at the main entrance. 我在正门。

• I am waiting outside the hotel. 我在酒店外面等。

• I am near Exit 3. 我在3号出口附近。

• I have two suitcases. 我有两个行李箱。

• I cannot find the car. 我找不到您的车。

• I am wearing a blue jacket. 我穿着蓝色外套。

Save these phrases on your phone so you can use them quickly.

Keep Your Hotel Address in Chinese

Before leaving your hotel, ask the front desk for its Chinese address.

Save it in your phone or take a screenshot.

This is useful if a driver calls to confirm your location or if you need to explain where you want to return.

What if the Driver Calls You?

Drivers may call to confirm the pickup location, particularly in crowded areas.

If you cannot communicate verbally, use the in-app messaging function if available. You can send your location or a short prepared message.

For example:

Chinese: 我在酒店正门，看到您后我会过去。

English: I am at the hotel main entrance. I will come over when I see you.

Do not feel pressured to enter a vehicle before confirming that the license plate matches your booking.

7. Where to Meet Your Ride at Airports and Railway Stations

Large transport hubs can be confusing, even for experienced travelers. A correct pickup location is particularly important at airports and high-speed railway stations.

Airport Pickups

At major airports, ride-hailing vehicles may use designated pickup areas rather than the regular taxi rank or passenger drop-off lane.

After booking:

1. Check the pickup instructions in the app.

2. Follow signs for the ride-hailing or online car-hailing pickup area.

3. Confirm your terminal and exit.

4. Check the vehicle's license plate.

5. Contact the driver through the app if you cannot find the meeting point.

Do not assume that the driver can stop directly outside the arrivals door.

If you are arriving late at night, traveling with children or carrying several large suitcases, a pre-arranged airport transfer may be more convenient than booking a car after landing.

High-Speed Railway Stations

China's major railway stations can have multiple exits, entrances and pickup zones.

When booking a ride, check which exit or pickup area is closest to your current location.

If the station is unfamiliar, use the station signs and the pickup instructions displayed in the app rather than choosing a random point on the map.

When a Pre-Booked Transfer Makes More Sense

Ride-hailing is useful for flexible city travel, but a pre-arranged transfer may be a better option when:

• You have just arrived after a long international flight.

• You are traveling with a group.

• You have several large suitcases.

• You need a specific vehicle size.

• You are traveling to a destination outside the main urban area.

• You want a driver and pickup arrangement confirmed in advance.

For airport transfers and private transportation as part of a wider itinerary, explore Sunda Travel's China private tours and Tailor-Made China Tours.

8. Practical Ride-Hailing Tips for Major Chinese Cities

Ride-hailing services are useful in many large Chinese cities, but the pickup experience can differ depending on the destination.

Beijing: Allow Extra Time Around Major Attractions

Beijing has large roads, busy traffic and security-controlled areas around some major attractions.

When booking a ride near the Forbidden City, Tiananmen area or major railway stations, check the actual pickup point rather than assuming the car can stop at the attraction entrance.

A short walk to a permitted pickup area may be necessary.

For a broader overview of the capital, read our Beijing Travel Guide.

Shanghai: Check the Correct Entrance and Pickup Zone

Shanghai's large shopping centers, office buildings and railway stations can have several entrances.

If you are meeting a driver outside a hotel or mall, use the specific entrance or road name shown on the map.

For airport journeys, follow the app's pickup instructions and allow extra time during busy travel periods.

Xi'an: Plan Your Pickup Around the Historic Areas

The historic center of Xi'an includes busy pedestrian areas, narrow streets and popular tourist neighborhoods.

Some locations may not allow vehicles to stop directly outside the place you are visiting.

When booking a ride near the City Wall or Muslim Quarter, choose an accessible meeting point and check the route before confirming.

You can also explore our Xi'an travel and food guide.

Chengdu: Use Ride-Hailing for Flexible City Exploration

Chengdu is a convenient city for combining local restaurants, teahouses, parks and cultural attractions.

Ride-hailing can help you move between different neighborhoods, especially when you want to explore several places in one day.

If you are visiting Chengdu as part of a longer journey, take a look at our 8-Day Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou and Chongqing Tour.

9. Common Ride-Hailing Problems and How to Solve Them

Even when your app is correctly set up, you may occasionally encounter problems. Most can be resolved by checking your location, payment method or booking details.

Problem 1: The App Cannot Find Your Current Location

Possible reasons:

• Location services are disabled.

• The app does not have location permission.

• Your GPS signal is weak.

• You are inside a large building or underground station.

What to do:

1. Turn on your phone's location services.

2. Allow the ride-hailing app to access your location.

3. Move to an open area if possible.

4. Manually adjust the pickup pin.

5. Confirm the correct entrance or road.

Problem 2: The Driver Cannot Find You

Possible reasons:

• The pickup point is on the wrong side of the road.

• The driver is waiting at a different station exit.

• The building has several entrances.

• Your location description is unclear.

What to do:

Send a short message through the app, share a more precise pickup point if available and describe a visible landmark.

A screenshot of the entrance or a nearby sign may also help.

Problem 3: Your International Card Is Declined

Possible reasons:

• Your bank has blocked the transaction.

• International online payments are disabled.

• The card requires additional verification.

• The selected booking channel does not support your payment method.

What to do:

Check your bank's security notifications, confirm your card settings and try another supported payment method.

Do not repeatedly submit transactions if your bank has flagged the payment. Contact the card issuer if necessary.

Problem 4: You Cannot Receive the Verification SMS

Possible reasons:

• Your phone number was entered incorrectly.

• International roaming is disabled.

• Your carrier blocks certain verification messages.

• The service does not support your number or region.

What to do:

Check the country code, confirm that your SIM can receive SMS messages and try again later.

If you still cannot register, check the app's official support information or use another available ride-booking method.

Problem 5: The Driver Cancels the Ride

Drivers may cancel for different reasons, including traffic, pickup distance or changing availability.

Return to the booking screen and request another vehicle if necessary.

If you are at an airport or railway station, make sure you are standing in the correct pickup area before placing another request.

Problem 6: You Are Unsure Whether the Vehicle Is Correct

Always compare the license plate and vehicle information with the details shown in the app.

If they do not match, do not get in. Contact the driver through the app or cancel the booking if necessary.

10. Is Ride-Hailing Safe for Foreign Travelers in China?

Ride-hailing can be a convenient way to travel, but passengers should follow basic safety precautions.

Before entering the vehicle:

• Check the license plate against the booking.

• Confirm the driver and vehicle details.

• Avoid accepting unsolicited rides from people approaching you outside the station or airport.

• Keep your phone charged and accessible.

• Share your trip details with someone you trust when appropriate.

• Use the app's official support or safety functions if you encounter a problem.

During the journey, follow the route shown in the app and speak up if something seems wrong.

Do not share unnecessary personal information with the driver. If you feel uncomfortable, use the app's available safety or customer-support features.

For emergencies in China, call the appropriate local emergency service. The police emergency number is 110, the medical emergency number is 120 and the fire service number is 119.

11. Ride-Hailing vs. Traditional Taxis vs. Private Transfers

Ride-hailing is not always the best choice for every journey. The most suitable option depends on your destination, luggage, schedule and travel style.

When Should You Use Ride-Hailing?

Choose an app-based ride when you need to travel between nearby city attractions, restaurants, hotels or shopping areas.

It is especially useful when you want to see the pickup and drop-off points on a map before starting the journey.

When Is a Private Transfer Better?

A private transfer may be more suitable if you have a fixed schedule, several passengers, substantial luggage or a long journey between destinations.

For example, a multi-day itinerary covering Beijing, Xi'an and Chengdu may involve airport transfers, railway station pickups and sightseeing trips. Coordinating all these journeys individually can take time.

A private travel arrangement can help simplify the transportation side of a more complex itinerary.

Explore Sunda Travel's China Private Tours to learn more about private transportation and customized travel arrangements.

12. A Quick Ride-Hailing Checklist for Foreigners

Before your first ride in China, make sure you have completed the following:

• Download the official DiDi Greater China service or another suitable ride-hailing option.

• Register using a supported mobile phone number.

• Confirm that your phone can receive verification messages.

• Link and verify an eligible international bank card or another supported payment method.

• Enable location services and app notifications.

• Save your hotel's Chinese name and address.

• Check the pickup location carefully before booking.

• Confirm the vehicle's license plate before entering.

• Keep a backup payment method and a small amount of RMB.

• Save important contact and emergency information.

Once these basics are ready, booking a ride in China becomes much easier.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ride-Hailing Apps in China

Can foreigners use DiDi in China?

Yes. Foreign travelers can use DiDi-Greater China. The service supports international mobile phone numbers and international bank cards, subject to the applicable registration, verification and payment conditions.

Do I need a Chinese phone number to use DiDi?

Not necessarily. DiDi-Greater China supports eligible international mobile phone numbers. You should check that your number can receive the required SMS verification code before traveling.

Can I use an international credit card to pay for DiDi?

International bank cards are supported for foreign travelers using DiDi-Greater China, but acceptance depends on the card network, issuing bank, account verification and transaction approval. Check the payment options displayed in the app.

Can I book a taxi in China through Alipay?

Yes. Foreign travelers can use Alipay's transport services to access taxi or ride-hailing options. A typical route is Transport → Taxi, followed by entering the pickup and destination locations.

Can I use WeChat to book a ride in China?

Yes. WeChat may provide ride-hailing access through its Services section or related mini-programs. Availability and menu names can vary by account and location.

Which ride-hailing app is best for tourists in China?

DiDi-Greater China is a practical starting point for many international visitors because it supports foreign phone numbers and international bank cards. Alipay and WeChat are useful alternatives if you have already set them up.

Can I use DiDi at Chinese airports?

Ride-hailing services are available at many major Chinese airports, but pickup arrangements vary. Follow the app's designated pickup instructions and confirm the terminal, meeting point and vehicle details.

Is DiDi cheaper than a traditional taxi in China?

Not always. Fares depend on the city, route, traffic, demand, vehicle category and time of day. Compare the available options in the app before booking.

What should I do if my driver does not speak English?

Use the app's messaging or translation features if available. You can also prepare a few basic Chinese phrases and save your hotel's Chinese address on your phone.

Can I use ride-hailing for long-distance travel between Chinese cities?

Ride-hailing is mainly useful for local journeys. For intercity travel, high-speed trains and flights are generally more practical. A private vehicle may be appropriate for certain regional routes, depending on distance and itinerary.

Explore China with Greater Confidence

Once you know how to use DiDi, Alipay and WeChat for ride-hailing, moving around China's major cities becomes much more manageable.

You can book a ride to a historic neighborhood, find your way to a local restaurant, travel between attractions or return to your hotel without needing to negotiate every journey in person.

For a first trip, prepare your apps and payment methods before arrival, keep your destination addresses available in Chinese and always check your pickup point and vehicle details.

If you are planning a more extensive journey, transportation is only one part of the experience. Explore our China Travel Guide, discover our China Travel Itineraries, or browse Tailor-Made China Tours.

With the right preparation, you can spend less time worrying about how to get there and more time discovering the places, food and culture that make China such a rewarding destination.

Travel with confidence. Explore at your own pace. Discover more of China with Sunda Travel.