What happens if you try to use DiDi in China
DiDi works seamlessly in China. You can book rides, track drivers, and pay with international cards or WeChat/Alipay.
What works
- Booking rides
- English interface
- International credit cards
- WeChat Pay and Alipay
- Real-time driver tracking
- In-app translation for driver communication
What doesn't work
- Some premium services may require Chinese payment methods
Do you need a VPN?
No VPN needed
DiDi is a Chinese app and works without any VPN.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Expecting Uber to work. Uber sold its China business to DiDi in 2016.
- Not having the in-app translation feature enabled for communicating with drivers.
Quick setup checklist
- 1Download DiDi from your app store
- 2Register with your international phone number
- 3Add a payment method (international card, Alipay, or WeChat Pay)
- 4Set the app language to English in settings
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Uber in China?
No. Uber does not operate in mainland China. It sold its Chinese business to DiDi in 2016. Use DiDi instead.
Can I pay DiDi with a credit card?
Yes. DiDi accepts international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard). You can also link Alipay or WeChat Pay.
Does DiDi have English?
Yes. DiDi has full English interface and even an in-app translation feature for communicating with drivers.