How to Download and Use Transportation Apps in China (Examples: 12306, DiDi)

Part One: Download Steps

1. App Store Selection
2. iOS Users (iPhone/iPad):
   • Open the App Store and switch your account to a Chinese region account (registration or purchase required).
   • Search directly for "12306" or "DiDi Chuxing."
   • If unable to switch accounts, download via their official websites:
   • 12306 Official Website: www.12306.cn (Chinese only)
   • DiDi International Version: www.didiglobal.com (English supported)

3. Android Users:

   • Through Google Play, search for "12306" or "DiDi-Rider" (International version).
   • If inaccessible, download APK files from the official website (enable "allow installation from unknown sources").

4. Language Settings

5. The DiDi international version supports English interfaces, while 12306 is mainly in Chinese. You can use the phone’s built-in screen translation function to assist with operations.

Part Two: Registration and Login

1. 12306 (Train Ticket Booking):
2. Registration Process:
   1. Open the app and click the "Register" button.
   2. Fill in passport information (name, passport number, etc.) and contact details (it is recommended to use a Chinese mobile number; if unavailable, an email address can be used).
   3. Complete real-name verification (upload a copy of the passport photo page).
   4. Set up a login password and bind it to a mobile number or email.

3. Note: Foreign passport users must complete their first verification at a train station counter or self-service machine (passport original required).

4. DiDi Chuxing (Ride-hailing):

5. Registration Process:
   1. Choose the international version (DiDi-Rider) and click "Register."
   2. Input an international mobile number (e.g., +[country code][number]) or email address.
   3. Receive the verification code and set a password.
   4. Bind payment methods (supports international credit cards/Visa/MasterCard, Alipay/WeChat Pay).

Part Three: Core Function Usage Guide

1. 12306: Train Ticket Booking
2. Booking Steps:
   1. Enter departure location, destination, and date (use pinyin for Chinese characters, e.g., “Beijing” as “Beijing”).
   2. Select the train type (high-speed rail “G,” EMU “D,” regular trains “K/T/Z”).
   3. Add passenger information (must match registered passport).
   4. Choose seat class (second-class/economy, first-class/business, business class).
   5. Make payment (supports Alipay, WeChat Pay, international credit cards, some may incur fees).

3. Ticket Collection/Entry:

   • Collect tickets at the train station using your passport (arrive at least one hour early).
   • Some high-speed stations allow direct entry by scanning your passport (check station signage).

4. DiDi Chuxing: Ride-hailing Service

5. Booking Steps:
   1. Open the app and enable location permissions.
   2. Input the destination (use English or pinyin, e.g., “Forbidden City” as “Gugong”).
   3. Select car type (express, premium, luxury, etc.).
   4. Confirm pickup location (can manually adjust map positioning).
   5. Wait for driver confirmation and communication (drivers may contact through in-app messages or calls; prepare a translation tool).
6. Payment Method:
   • Automatic deduction via bound credit card or choose “cash payment” (confirm with the driver beforehand).

Part Four: Precautions

1. Network and Location:
2. Ensure your phone has international roaming enabled or purchase a local SIM card in China (recommended: China Mobile/China Unicom).

3. DiDi requires real-time location access; ensure GPS is on and connected to a stable network.

4. Payment Issues:

5. International credit card payments on 12306 may fail; it is recommended to bind Alipay/WeChat Pay (requires foreign card binding functionality).

6. DiDi's international version supports foreign cards but may charge a 3% fee.

7. Emergency Situations:

8. Train ticket refunds or changes must be made before departure (refund fees vary based on time).
9. If the DiDi driver deviates from the agreed route, use the in-app “emergency assistance” feature or call customer service at 400-000-0999 (English service available).

Part Five: Alternative Solutions (Backup Tools)

• Train Tickets: Trip.com supports English interfaces and foreign card payments, allowing proxy booking of 12306 tickets.
• Ride-hailing: Meituan Dache, AutoNavi Maps (supports multi-platform price comparisons), or directly use Alipay/WeChat’s built-in “DiDi Chuxing” mini-program.