Best China Taxi App for Foreign Travelers: Is There Uber in China?

Is there Uber in China? For many visitors, Uber is the easiest way to get around. But Uber no longer operates in mainland China. It sold its business to a local competitor called Didi Chuxing in 2016.

So, this guideline explains the best China taxi apps for your next trip to China. How can you use them, how to pay, and what to expect more? Read on.

Is There Uber in China?

No. Uber does not provide rides in mainland China anymore!

• You can not find the Uber China app on Chinese app stores.
• The global Uber app does not allow ride requests in China now.
• Uber’s drivers, users, and data were transferred to Didi as part of the acquisition.

Best China Taxi Apps for Travelers

Top 1: Didi China (Ride Hailing)

If you only download one taxi app in China, choose Didi.

Credit: from Silicon UK | Have your first order on Didi China for ride-hailing

• Full English interface
• You can sign up with your own phone numbers
• In-app translation if drivers message you
• Works in almost all major Chinese cities, even in small cities
• Multiple types of rides you can choose: economy, premium, carpool, regular taxi, etc.

Top 2: WeChat Taxi Mini Programs

Inside WeChat, there are small built-in apps called Mini Programs, where you can call a taxi without downloading anything else.

Credit: from The WeChat Agency | Use WeChat mini Program for much convenience

• It’s quite convenient if you already use WeChat Pay!
• But it only works with WeChat Pay
• A great backup option if Didi ever fails to find drivers

Top 3: Amap (Gaode)

Gaode is like China’s version of Google Maps.

Credit: from Gizmochina | Compare prices on Amap when planning a road trip

• It offers very accurate maps and routing in China
• Amap allows sign-in with Apple ID, Facebook, or WeChat.

Top 4: Meituan Taxi

Meituan is a huge and popular platform in China for food delivery, travel booking, reviews, and ride-hailing.

Credit: from Yicai Global | Meituan Taxi App

• It’s often cheaper than Didi
• You can find a massive network of drivers
• Simplified Chinese and Traditional Chinese
• Not beginner-friendly

How Do You Pay for Rides?

It’s common for digital payments when you order a taxi online. You can use WeChat Pay and Alipay. Make sure that you’ve linked an international credit card to these apps.

You can pay cash directly to the driver if you take traditional street taxis.

How to Use Didi (Step by Step)?

Download Didi for further services

1. Download the “Didi China: Ride Hailing” App from your app store.
2. Enter your phone number (foreign numbers are OK).
3. Add payment: WeChat Pay, Alipay, or card.
4. Enter pickup + destination
5. Choose your ride type
6. Meet your driver
7. Ride and exit
8. Payment is automatically paid.

Safety and Reliability of the China Taxi App

For most travelers, apps feel safer and easier than street taxis!

• GPS tracking of every ride
• Emergency SOS button
• Share trip status with friends or family
• Verified drivers with ID and rating history
• 24/7 in-app support

China Taxi App vs. Street Taxis

Credit: from CGTN | Getting around Beijing by a taxi might be another fun local experience though

• Waiting time: Taxi apps usually take 3-10 minutes in cities, while street taxis can be quicker in busy areas, but slower at night or in remote locations.
• Fare: On the China taxi app, you can see it transparently with an estimate, while for street taxi, it can be more expensive depending on the route and time of the day.

Tips for Using Taxi Apps in China

• Save your hotel address in Chinese
• Use well-known landmarks when entering destinations
• Screenshot your destination to show locals if needed
• Expect fare increases during rush hour
• Activate WeChat Pay or Alipay with a foreign card before you need your first ride
• For airports or train stations, use taxi apps to reduce stress.
• Apps are safer if you travel late at night.
• But always keep some RMB ready as backup for street taxis.

Find Your Best Places to Stay in China