Essential China Travel Apps
China's digital ecosystem is different from the West. Set up these apps before you land for a smooth trip.
💡 Pro tip from r/ChinaTravel: Set up Alipay, Amap, and an eSIM BEFORE you land. You'll need internet to download apps, and Chinese app stores may not have the versions you need.
💳Payment
Alipay (支付宝)
The #1 payment app in China. Foreigners can link international credit cards (Visa/Mastercard). Use for everything from street food to high-speed train tickets. Includes built-in mini-programs for booking attractions.
WeChat Pay (微信支付)
Second most popular payment method. Also accepts international cards. Essential for WeChat mini-programs that some attractions require for reservation.
Cash (人民币)
Always carry some cash as backup. Most places accept it and will give change. Useful for small vendors and rural areas.
🗺️Navigation
Amap / Gaode Ditu (高德地图)
The best navigation app for China. English interface available. Works offline, shows real-time traffic, public transit, and walking directions. Google Maps does not work well in China.
Baidu Maps (百度地图)
Alternative to Amap with similar features. Chinese interface only but more detailed in some regions.
Apple Maps
Works in China without VPN on iOS. Limited but usable for basic navigation in major cities.
🚄Transportation
Trip.com
Best app for booking high-speed train tickets, flights, and hotels in English. Accepts international cards. Book 3-7 days ahead as tickets sell out fast.
Didi (滴滴出行)
China's Uber. English interface available within the Didi mini-program in Alipay or WeChat. Cheaper than taxis and no language barrier.
12306 (铁路12306)
Official railway booking app. Can be tricky for foreigners but offers the most accurate schedules and prices. Trip.com is easier for tourists.
📱Communication & Internet
eSIM (Trip.com, Airalo)
Get a data eSIM before arrival. Trip.com offers 100GB/day plans. This bypasses the Great Firewall — no VPN needed.
LetsVPN / ExpressVPN
If you need a VPN, download and set up BEFORE entering China. VPN apps are not available from Chinese app stores.
WeChat (微信)
Essential for communication in China. Many hotels, restaurants, and attractions use WeChat for customer service and reservations.
RedNote / Xiaohongshu (小红书)
China's Instagram + TripAdvisor. Great for finding local food spots, hidden attractions, and real reviews. Search in Chinese for best results.
🌐Translation
Baidu Translate (百度翻译)
Best translation app for China. Supports voice, camera, and text translation. Works better than Google Translate for Chinese.
Google Translate
Works with VPN or eSIM. Camera translation is helpful for menus and signs.
Pleco
The best Chinese dictionary app. Character recognition via camera, stroke order, and example sentences. Essential for serious learners.