Essential Apps
Introduction
From payments to navigation, apps are part of everyday life in China. Alipay and WeChat Pay handle most purchases, while Baidu Maps and Pleco help with directions and translation. Download the key apps before your trip and make sure they’re usable with your current phone setup.
Mobile Payment Apps In China
Mobile payments are the norm in China, and cash is used less frequently—especially in major cities. The two dominant apps are Alipay and WeChat Pay, both of which now support international cards like Visa and Mastercard. Setup is simple: download the app, register with your phone number, and add your foreign card in the wallet section. These apps can be used for almost everything—restaurants, metro, taxis, and even vending machines.
Translation and Language Apps In China
Translation apps are a must when traveling in China, since English isn’t widely used. Baidu Translate is a reliable choice for menus, signs, and simple conversations—its photo and voice features are especially useful. WeChat also offers built-in translation for chats and Moments, which comes in handy when talking to locals.
Transportation and Map Apps In China
Navigation Apps In China
Amap and Baidu Maps are the most reliable navigation tools in China, providing accurate routes for walking, driving, biking, and public transit. Amap offers an English interface and voice navigation, designed primarily for overseas users, while Baidu Maps is entirely in Chinese. For international travelers, Amap is the more accessible choice.
That said, Baidu Maps still excels in location data and local service recommendations, especially for those who can read Chinese.
Transportation Apps in China
Getting around in China often requires more than just a map—several apps can help with tickets, transit schedules, and local transport options. 12306 is the official app of China Railway for purchasing train tickets and checking schedules. It's efficient and reliable, but only available in Chinese. Trip.com is a good alternative if you don't understand Chinese. It offers train and bus booking with full English support and accepts international payment methods. Amap is also useful for checking real-time public transport routes, stops, and estimated arrival times.
Social and Lifestyle Apps In China
WeChat is like a mix of Facebook and PayPal—you can message people, make payments, scan QR codes, and even access services like food delivery or ride-hailing through built-in mini programs.
RedNote (Xiaohongshu) is where locals post everything from hidden noodle shops to scenic photo spots, making it a go-to app for travel inspiration.Together, they give you a local lens on how daily life really works in China.
Related Travel Tips
Currency Tips
China is a largely cashless society, with mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay used almost everywhere. However, carrying a small amount of cash is still useful for taxis, markets, or rural areas. Foreign cards aren’t widely accepted, so it’s best to exchange some RMB upon arrival.
SIM Cards & Internet
Staying connected in China is easy—mobile networks are fast, widely available, and generally reliable. Purchasing a SIM card requires passport registration, and the process may differ from what travelers are used to in other countries. Some international apps may not function properly, so it’s a good idea to prepare your connectivity options in advance.
Visa Requirements
Planning a trip to China? With recent updates to the visa-free policy, traveling to China has become easier for international visitors. Citizens of select countries can now enter without a visa for short stays, while others still need to apply depending on their purpose of visit.
Public Transportation In China
Public transportation in China is fast and extensive—especially in major cities. Subways, buses, and high-speed trains are often the most efficient way to get around. With a bit of preparation, navigating the system is easy even if you don’t speak Chinese.