Welcome to Nanjing! Getting around this vibrant city is easier than ever with ride-hailing apps like Didi (the Chinese equivalent of Uber). Most taxis and private drivers use these platforms, so downloading one is essential. Simply register your phone number, link a payment method, and type your destination in English or Chinese. Didi’s interface is intuitive, but if you prefer Google Maps, the app also integrates with local services. Just make sure your phone has data—Nanjing’s public Wi-Fi spots are limited outside hotels.
What Payment Methods Are Accepted?
Cash is rarely used in Nanjing’s ride-hailing scene. Most drivers expect digital payments via Alipay or WeChat Pay, China’s top mobile wallets. Linking a debit/credit card to these apps is easy, but check if your bank charges foreign transaction fees. Alternatively, some apps accept international credit cards directly. For peace of mind, carry a small emergency cash reserve (¥100–200) for rare cases where digital payments fail.
Which App Should I Choose?
Didi dominates Nanjing’s market, offering standard taxis, premium cars, and shared rides. For budget options, Caocao or T3 might have lower prices. Here’s a quick comparison:
| App | Base Fare | English Support | Payment Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Didi | ¥11-¥15 | Yes (limited) | Alipay, WeChat, Credit Card |
| Caocao | ¥10-¥14 | No | Alipay, WeChat |
| Meituan | ¥9-¥12 | No | Alipay, WeChat, Debit Card |
Stick with Didi for simplicity, especially at night or in remote areas.
How Do I Avoid Language Barriers?
Even if you don’t speak Mandarin, navigate apps seamlessly by switching to English. For in-app communication, use the translation feature or pre-save phrases like “Please take me to Xiaomalu Station” in Chinese (小马路口站). Drivers often rely on navigation apps, so double-check the route on your own map to avoid misunderstandings.
What If My Phone Has No Data?
Without mobile data, ride-hailing apps won’t work. Consider buying a China SIM card (¥50–100) at Nanjing Lukou Airport or major stations. Alternatively, rent a portable Wi-Fi device (¥15–30/day) from rental shops near tourist hubs like Confucius Temple. As a backup, note key addresses in Pinyin to show taxi drivers manually.
Alternatives to Ride-Hailing
If apps feel overwhelming, Nanjing’s metro system is affordable (¥2–¥5 per ride) and covers most attractions. Taxis can be hailed on the street, but expect longer waits. For short trips, bike-sharing apps like Mobike or Helibao let you scan and ride for ¥1.5–¥3 per hour—perfect for exploring areas like Xuanwu Lake.
Travel smart, and Nanjing’s transportation will feel like a breeze!