Uber in China Just Became Total Disaster for Tourists

If you’re visiting China, don’t expect the normally smooth experience of Uber you’re used to everywhere else.

Didi Chuxing, which this year acquired China’s Uber business, has rolled out a separate Uber China app. This app is not associated with the standard Uber app, meaning Uber users cannot order a car in China with their regular app.

And it’s not just as simple as downloading an extra app. Users must create a new account for Uber China, too—and that account requires a Chinese phone number and Chinese payment method.

Even locals are frustrated with the move. But it’s tourists who face the largest hurdles to access Uber in China.

Didi Chuxing says it will eventually add multilingual features to its Uber app, but has not offered a timeframe.

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