How to use DiDi in China as a foreigner: booking guide

Malaysians can use DiDi in China through TNG eWallet by searching for DiDi Travel, registering with their Malaysian phone number (+60) and entering their destination to book a ride. You can also pay for eligible rides directly from your eWallet balance in ringgit, without downloading a separate DiDi app. 

Booking a ride can be especially useful when you’re travelling with heavy luggage, heading somewhere that isn’t easily accessible by public transport or returning to your hotel after a long day. With DiDi Travel in TNG eWallet, you can check available rides and fares before confirming your booking, making it easier to get around China even if you don’t speak Mandarin. 

How to use DiDi in China through TNG eWallet 

You can book DiDi rides in China through DiDi Travel in TNG eWallet, making it easier to arrange transport using an app you’re already familiar with. Instead of downloading a separate Chinese ride-hailing app, you can access DiDi Travel, register with your Malaysian phone number and pay for eligible rides using your TNG eWallet balance. Here’s how to get started.

Step 1. Search for DiDi Travel in TNG eWallet 

Open TNG eWallet and type DiDi Travel into the app’s search bar. Select DiDi from the search results to open the ride-hailing service. This allows you to access the booking platform through TNG eWallet without downloading a separate DiDi app. 

Step 2. Complete the first-time registration 

If you’re using DiDi Travel for the first time, tap anywhere on the screen to begin the sign-up process. Follow the registration instructions displayed in the app. You only need to complete the initial registration process when setting up the service for the first time, subject to any additional verification requirements. 

Step 3. Register using your Malaysian phone number 

Enter your Malaysian mobile number using the +60 country code. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the required verification. It’s worth setting this up before leaving Malaysia, particularly if you need to receive a verification message on your Malaysian number. If you’re planning to use a travel eSIM overseas, consider keeping your Malaysian SIM active where your phone supports it. 

Step 4. Enter your destination and book a ride 

Once registration is complete, enter your destination in the booking interface. Check the pickup location carefully, especially if you’re at a large shopping centre, airport or railway station with several entrances. For example, if you’re staying in Shanghai and want to visit The Bund, enter your destination and confirm the pickup point before proceeding.Review the available ride options and displayed fares, then select the vehicle category that suits your needs. 

Step 5. Confirm your booking and pay through TNG eWallet 

After choosing your preferred ride, review the booking details and confirm your request. Eligible DiDi Travel rides can be paid for using your TNG eWallet balance. This means you don’t need to set up a separate Chinese payment method just to pay for supported rides booked through the service. Before confirming, check the displayed fare, pickup point and any applicable charges. Once a driver is assigned, follow the trip information shown in the app and verify the vehicle details before getting in. 

What is DiDi and can foreigners use it in China? 

DiDi is a ride-hailing platform used in China that allows passengers to book transport through a mobile service. It works similarly to Grab in Malaysia. Instead of looking for a taxi on the street, you can enter your destination, review available vehicle options and request a ride. Foreign visitors can use DiDi through supported booking channels, including DiDi Travel in TNG eWallet. 

For Malaysian travellers, this can be particularly helpful when visiting China for the first time. You might not know the local bus routes, your hotel may be some distance from a metro station, or you may simply prefer travelling directly to your destination. 

DiDi can be useful for journeys between hotels, shopping areas, restaurants and attractions, depending on service availability. However, ride availability, vehicle categories and fares can vary by location and demand. 

Ways to book DiDi in China as a foreigner 

Foreign travellers have several ways to access DiDi, including supported standalone apps and services integrated into other platforms. 

For Malaysians, using DiDi Travel through TNG eWallet is a convenient option because it combines booking and payment within a familiar app. 

If you already use TNG eWallet, accessing DiDi Travel through the app can reduce the need to set up another ride-hailing service. However, it’s still useful to know the alternatives in case a particular booking method is unavailable. 

Do you need a Chinese phone number to use DiDi? 

No. Malaysian travellers using DiDi Travel through TNG eWallet can register with a Malaysian phone number using the +60 country code. This is particularly useful if you’re visiting China for a short holiday and don’t plan to purchase a local Chinese SIM card. However, your phone number must still be able to complete any required verification. If you’re using a travel eSIM for mobile data, check whether your phone allows you to keep your Malaysian number active at the same time. Our guide comparing eSIM vs physical SIM explains the differences and helps you decide which option suits your travel needs. 

DiDi vs taxis and public transport in China 

DiDi can be convenient, but it isn’t necessarily the best transport option for every journey. Major Chinese cities have extensive metro networks, and public transport may be more practical when travelling through busy urban areas. 

Here’s how the options generally compare. 

For example, if you’re exploring central Shanghai, the metro may be a practical way to move between popular attractions. But after spending the day walking around the city, booking a DiDi ride back to your hotel may feel more comfortable. The best approach is to choose transport based on your route, budget, luggage and schedule. 

5 Tips for using DiDi in China safely 

A little preparation can make your first DiDi ride more straightforward, especially if you don’t speak Mandarin. 

Save your hotel address

Keep your hotel’s full address available in both English and Chinese, where possible. This can help you confirm that you’ve selected the correct destination and make communication easier if needed. 

Double-check your pickup location 

Large shopping centres, railway stations and airports may have several entrances. Before booking, check the pickup pin and any instructions about where your driver will meet you. 

Verify the vehicle before getting in 

Compare the vehicle registration number and other available driver details with those displayed in the app. Avoid entering a vehicle that doesn’t match your booking. 

Allow extra time during busy periods 

Traffic conditions can vary, especially during rush hour, public holidays and major events. If you’re travelling to an airport or railway station, allow extra time rather than relying only on the estimated journey duration. 

Keep your mobile internet connected 

You’ll need a suitable internet connection to request rides and access trip information. If you’re preparing for your holiday, our guide to choosing an eSIM for China explains available data packages and connectivity considerations. You can also explore Travel eSIM through TNG eWallet to compare available China data plans before departure. 

Prepare your phone and travel essentials before departure 

Getting around China is only one part of planning your trip. Before departure, check your entry requirements, arrange your mobile connection and make sure you can access your essential travel bookings. If you’re visiting China for the first time, our guide on how to travel to China from Malaysia can help you plan your journey. 

It’s also worth checking your hotel’s location and understanding the transport options available nearby. If you’re still comparing flights, consider reading our tips on how to get cheap flight tickets before finalising your travel budget. 

Having TNG eWallet ready before departure can also help you access supported travel services without setting everything up after landing. 

Get around China with DiDi Travel through TNG eWallet 

Knowing how to use DiDi in China as a foreigner can make getting around easier, particularly when you’re travelling with luggage, exploring unfamiliar neighbourhoods or heading back to your hotel after a long day. For Malaysians, DiDi Travel through TNG eWallet offers a familiar way to book eligible rides using a Malaysian phone number and pay directly from your eWallet balance in ringgit. 

Before your trip, complete the required registration, check that your account is ready and make sure you have a suitable mobile internet connection. You can explore the overseas ride-hailing service through Travel in TNG eWallet and prepare for your journey before leaving Malaysia. 

With transport arrangements taken care of, you’ll have more time to enjoy the experiences that brought you to China in the first place.

FAQs

Can foreigners use DiDi in China? 

Yes. Foreign travellers can use DiDi through supported booking channels. Malaysian TNG eWallet users can access DiDi Travel and complete the required registration through the app. 

How do Malaysians use DiDi in China? 

Open TNG eWallet, search for DiDi Travel, register using your Malaysian phone number, enter your destination, choose a ride and follow the booking instructions. 

Can I pay for DiDi with TNG eWallet? 

Yes. Eligible DiDi Travel rides booked through TNG eWallet can be paid for using your eWallet balance in ringgit. 

Do I need to download the DiDi app separately? 

Malaysian travellers using the supported DiDi Travel service through TNG eWallet do not need to download a separate DiDi app for that booking process.