Must-have Apps for Tourists Traveling to China

When traveling in China, having the right apps on your phone can make your trip much easier. From payment to navigation, here are the must-have apps for tourists visiting China.

WeChat (微信) – Essential for Everything

Why You Need It:

• Main messaging app in China (like WhatsApp).
• Used for mobile payments (WeChat Pay), taxi booking, and more.
• Works as a translator with its built-in translation feature.

Tip: Set up WeChat Pay by linking your international card (Visa, Mastercard) before arrival.

Alipay (支付宝) – Alternative Payment App

Why You Need It:

• Second most popular mobile payment app.
• Supports international credit/debit cards.
• Has a “Tour Pass” for short-term visitors.

Tip: Alipay is widely accepted, but having both WeChat Pay and Alipay is best.

DiDi (滴滴) – Ride-Hailing Like Uber

Why You Need It:

• The main taxi app in China (like Uber).
• Supports English interface and international credit cards.
• Safer than hailing a taxi on the street.

Tip: Use WeChat Pay or Alipay for smooth payments.

Baidu Maps (百度地图) – Best for Navigation

Why You Need It:

• More accurate than Google Maps in China.
• Works well for public transport routes, walking, and biking. You also can take a taxi in this App.
• Has an English version (though limited).

Tip: Google Maps does not work in China due to restrictions.

! If you use IPhone – you also can use Apple map in China, but be careful with public transportations routs, since it is not updated on time!

Gaode Maps (高德地图) – Another Great Map App

Why You Need It:

• Works better for real-time traffic updates.
• More detailed subway & bus navigation than Baidu Maps.
• Used by most locals.

Tip: If you don’t read Chinese, use Baidu Maps instead.

Ctrip (Trip.com) – Booking Hotels & Trains

Why You Need It:

• Best for booking flights, hotels, and train tickets in China.
• English-friendly and supports international payments.
• Shows high-speed train schedules.

Tip: Book train tickets early, especially for holidays!

Meituan (美团) – Food Delivery & More

Why You Need It:

• Order local food delivery (like Uber Eats).
• Book attractions, restaurants, and experiences.
• Some features available in English.

Tip: Use WeChat or Alipay to pay since it does not support foreign cards directly.

China Train Booking (中国列车票) – Easy Train Ticket Booking

 Why You Need It:

• Simplifies high-speed train ticket booking.
• English-friendly interface.
• Easier for tourists than Ctrip for train tickets.

Tip: Use passport for ticket collection at the train station. You don’t need to collect paper ticker at the station.

Pleco – Best Offline Chinese Dictionary

Why You Need It:

• Instant translation for Chinese characters.
• Works offline, great for no-internet situations.
• Helps with pronunciation and common phrases.

Tip: Download language packs before your trip!

VPN App – Must for Unblocking Websites

Why You Need It:

• Google, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook are blocked in China.
• A VPN helps you access restricted websites.
• Recommended VPNs: ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Astrill.

Tip: Install your VPN before arriving in China, as many VPN sites are blocked.

Other Useful Apps

淘宝 (Taobao) – Online shopping.
12306 (Official Train App) – Direct train ticket booking.
Baidu Translate – Translate English ↔ Chinese.
Dianping – Chinese Tripadvisor

Final Tips for using App in China

Download apps before arrival – Some require verification.
Enable mobile payments – WeChat Pay or Alipay is a must.
Use a VPN – Needed for Google, YouTube, and social media.