Using Didi & Taxis in Shenzhen with Zero Chinese

Getting around by car in Shenzhen is easy with Didi — the app has an English mode and accepts foreign cards. Here's how to use it, plus taxi tips.

🚗 Set up Didi before you arrive

• Download Didi from your app store (search "Didi Rider" or via Alipay's mini-program).
• Register with your phone number (or log in via Alipay).
• Add your foreign Visa/Mastercard under Payment methods. Some users find adding the card in advance avoids friction later.
• Switch to English in the app settings — the whole flow becomes readable.

🛣️ Booking a ride step by step

1. Open Didi — it auto-detects your location. Drag the pin to exactly where you are (in front of a specific hotel entrance, for example).
2. Type or select your destination — searching in English usually works for major hotels, malls and landmarks; otherwise drop a pin on the map using Apple Maps/Amap first.
3. Choose a ride type: Express (快车) is the standard cheap option; Premier is nicer; Taxi hails a metered cab via the app.
4. Confirm the fare estimate (Didi quotes upfront for Express/Premier) and wait — the driver's car plate and position show in-app.
5. Match the plate before getting in. Pay automatically via the app — no cash needed (but tipping isn't expected).

💬 No Chinese? No problem

Didi handles everything in the app, including messaging your driver with pre-set phrases like "I'm at the main entrance". If you need to call, use the in-app translation note or just show your destination in Chinese — most drivers appreciate you having the address written down. Keep your hotel's Chinese name saved (ask reception or find it on Amap) to show drivers when returning.

🚕 Regular taxis — when they're better

• At the airport or train station, official taxi queues are fast and metered.
• Short rides during off-peak are fine by taxi.
• Show the driver your destination in Chinese (screen or print) — taxi drivers rarely speak English.
• Flagging a taxi on the street works but you need to know where you're going; Didi is less stressful.

💰 Fares & tips

• Didi Express within the city: typically ¥15-40 for most trips.
• Airport to city: ¥80-120 by taxi/Didi.
• No tipping is expected in China — the fare is the fare.
• Tolls (e.g. some bridges) are added automatically where applicable.

Going further afield? Read our high-speed rail day trips guide.