Didi in Shanghai: A Tourist's Guide to China's Ride-Hailing App
What is Didi Chuxing?
Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行), often shortened to Didi, is China’s largest ride-hailing app, similar to Uber or Lyft. It provides a convenient and efficient way to navigate Shanghai and other Chinese cities. For foreigners, using Didi can be a game-changer, offering a reliable alternative to taxis, especially when language barriers exist. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using Didi Chuxing in Shanghai.
Why Use Didi in Shanghai?
There are several compelling reasons to use Didi Chuxing in Shanghai:
- Convenience: Order a ride from anywhere with your smartphone. No need to hail a taxi on the street, especially useful in crowded areas or during peak hours.
- Language Barrier: Didi offers in-app translation features, making it easier to communicate your destination and needs to the driver, even if you don’t speak Mandarin.
- Payment Options: Didi supports various payment methods, including international credit cards and digital payment platforms like Alipay and WeChat Pay (though setting these up can be tricky for tourists).
- Transparent Pricing: You’ll see the estimated fare before you confirm your ride, eliminating surprises.
- Availability: Didi operates 24/7, making it a reliable option for getting around at any time of day or night, including early morning trips to
Shanghai airport transportation.
Downloading and Setting Up Didi
App Store Availability
Didi Chuxing is available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Search for “DiDi Rider” to download the app. Note that you may need to create an Apple ID or Google account associated with a region where the app is available if you encounter issues.
Language Settings
Once downloaded, the first thing you’ll want to do is change the language settings. While not all parts of the app are perfectly translated, switching to English makes the app much easier to navigate. Look for the settings menu (usually represented by a gear icon) and find the language option.
Payment Methods for Foreigners
Using International Credit Cards
Didi Chuxing generally accepts major international credit cards like Visa and Mastercard. You can add your card details in the “Payment” section of the app. Be aware that some users have reported issues with certain cards, so it’s a good idea to have a backup payment method.
Setting up Alipay or WeChat Pay
While more complex, setting up Alipay or WeChat Pay can be beneficial for your trip to China, as they are widely used. Both platforms require a Chinese bank account in most cases, but there are workarounds for short-term visitors, such as using a prepaid card or linking an international credit card (with limitations). Research the latest methods before your trip, as policies can change.
Ordering a Ride
Inputting Your Destination (Chinese vs. English)
This is where the language barrier can be tricky. While Didi often recognizes English place names, it’s more reliable to input your destination in Chinese characters (汉字). You can either copy and paste the Chinese name from a translation app or use Didi’s built-in translation feature. Alternatively, show a picture of your destination to your driver.
Understanding Ride Options (Express, Premier, Luxe)
Didi offers different ride options to suit various budgets and preferences:
- Express: The most affordable option, similar to UberX.
- Premier: A more comfortable ride with a higher-rated driver and a nicer car.
- Luxe: The most luxurious option, offering premium vehicles and top-rated drivers.
Communicating with Your Driver
Translation Tools
Utilize translation apps like Google Translate or Pleco to communicate with your driver. Type your message in English and translate it into Mandarin Chinese. You can then show the translated message to your driver.
Basic Mandarin Phrases
Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases can also be helpful:
- 你好 (Nǐ hǎo): Hello
- 谢谢 (Xièxiè): Thank you
- 请 (Qǐng): Please
- 到了 (Dào le): Arrived
- 多少钱 (Duōshao qián): How much?
Safety Tips for Using Didi
- Share Your Ride Details: Share your ride details with a friend or family member so they can track your journey.
- Check the Driver’s Information: Before getting into the car, verify that the driver’s name, photo, and license plate match the information displayed in the app.
- Trust Your Instincts: If you feel uncomfortable with the driver or the situation, cancel the ride and report it to Didi.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid distractions while riding in the car.
- Report Any Issues: If you experience any problems during your ride, report them to Didi through the app.
For a complete overview, see our main guide to navigating Shanghai.
