Essential Apps for Traveling in China
Your phone can make traveling in China much easier. Payments, transportation, maps, train tickets, translation, and communication are often handled through mobile apps.
Download and set up the important apps before you leave home.
1. Alipay — Payments
Alipay is one of the most useful apps for foreign travelers in China.
You can use it for:
- QR-code payments
- Restaurants and stores
- Transportation
- Mini programs and other everyday services
Set up your account and add an eligible international card before your trip.
2. WeChat — Communication and Payments
WeChat is used extensively throughout China.
It can be useful for:
- Messaging
- WeChat Pay
- Communicating with hotels or local contacts
- QR codes
- Mini programs
Having both Alipay and WeChat gives you more flexibility while traveling.
3. Amap — Maps and Navigation
Amap, also known as Gaode Maps, is widely used for navigation in China.
It can help you:
- Find attractions
- Navigate public transportation
- Get walking directions
- Find restaurants and businesses
- Plan driving or taxi routes
4. Didi — Ride Hailing
Didi is a major ride-hailing service in China.
It works similarly to Uber and can be useful when taking a taxi or private car.
In some cases, Didi services can also be accessed through Alipay or WeChat.
5. Trip.com — Hotels and Transportation
Trip.com can be especially convenient for international travelers because it provides an English-language interface.
You can use it to search for:
- Hotels
- Flights
- Train tickets
- Attractions
6. Translation App
Keep a translation app available even if you know some Chinese.
Download any offline language packs you may need before your trip so basic translation remains available when you don’t have a reliable connection.
Before You Leave
Make sure you:
- Download the apps you plan to use.
- Create your accounts.
- Complete any required identity verification.
- Add your payment cards.
- Test that you can sign in.
- Download offline information where available.
- Keep your home phone number available for verification codes.
Travel tip: Don’t wait until you arrive in China to install everything. Setting up your essential apps at home gives you time to solve account, card, or verification problems before your trip.