Is DiDi available in English?

The app has an English interface. Coverage of English in the mini-program route is thinner, but the map makes it workable.

Yes, but have small notes ready.

Street taxis still work and take cash or QR. Have your destination written in Chinese — the address in characters is the reliable part.

How do I use DiDi without a Chinese phone number?

Short answer

You can register DiDi with an international phone number and switch the app to English, or skip registration and use the DiDi mini-program inside Alipay with your bound foreign card. Set your destination in English or as a saved pin, and expect messages from the driver in Chinese.

Two ways in

DiDi app: registers with an international number, has an English interface
Alipay or WeChat mini-program: uses the wallet account you already have, no separate signup, pays with the bound card

The part that actually goes wrong

Finding the pickup point, not the car. Large stations, malls and airports have several exits and the driver will not circle. Pin your location manually instead of trusting GPS, which drifts indoors.

Drivers often send a message in Chinese when they arrive. A short reply phrase card saves the pickup.

Paying

Bind a foreign card in the app or pay through the wallet mini-program
Cash is still accepted, but drivers rarely carry change for large notes
Airport and late-night trips may carry a surcharge

Related guides

Official sources

Policies and booking channels change — check the official channel before you rely on it.