Quick answer: Choose based on the trip, not habit. Subway is often best for predictable city travel, DiDi is useful for direct point-to-point rides, and taxis are a practical backup when ride-hailing or mobile data is inconvenient.
Choose subway when
- the route is direct
- traffic is heavy
- you are traveling during busy road hours
- the destination is close to a station
- your luggage is manageable
Subways are usually easier when you can clearly see the route in Amap and do not need multiple difficult transfers.
Choose DiDi when
- you have luggage
- the destination is awkward by subway
- you want door-to-door transport
- you already have the destination selected in the app
- it is late or early and public transport is less convenient
Choose a taxi when
- there is an official taxi queue nearby
- your ride-hailing app is not working
- your mobile data is unreliable
- airport or station signage makes the taxi option simpler
Keep the destination name and address in Chinese so you can show the driver.
Compare the full trip
Do not compare only the vehicle time.
For subway, include walking and transfers.
For a car, include traffic and pickup time.
For a taxi, include the time needed to find the official queue.
Use a simple decision order
- Check the route in Amap.
- Ask whether subway is direct enough.
- Check road travel time.
- Consider luggage and weather.
- Choose the simplest option, not automatically the cheapest or fastest.
FAQ
Is DiDi always easier than subway?
No. In heavy traffic, subway may be faster and more predictable.
Should I use taxis without speaking Chinese?
You can, but save the destination in Chinese and use translation if needed.
Related: DiDi in China · How Foreigners Use Subways in China