Apps
Airalo (eSIM)
UtilitiesBuy and activate a China eSIM before you fly — access Google, WhatsApp, and Instagram without a separate VPN from the moment you land.
Alipay
PaymentChina's most widely used payment platform, accepted at millions of merchants, restaurants, and transport services.
Amap
Maps & NavigationChina's leading navigation app — the reliable replacement for Google Maps, with accurate local data and transit directions.
Baidu Translate
TranslationChina's native translation app works on hotel Wi-Fi without a VPN — camera, voice, and offline translation for menus, signs, and conversations.
China Railway 12306
TransportationThe official app for booking China's high-speed and regular train tickets — passport-friendly with English support.
Ctrip / Trip.com
TransportationThe easiest English-friendly platform to book China trains, hotels, and flights — accepts foreign cards with 24/7 support.
Dianping (大众点评)
UtilitiesChina's Yelp — find top-rated local restaurants, buy group-deal coupons, and join queues remotely before you arrive.
Didi
TransportationChina's dominant ride-hailing app — the local equivalent of Uber, with English support and in-app payment.
Google Translate
TranslationReal-time camera and voice translation for menus, signs, and conversations — essential for navigating Chinese-only content.
Meituan
UtilitiesChina's biggest food delivery and local services app — restaurants, deals, movie tickets, and more in one place.
Pleco
TranslationThe best Chinese dictionary app for tourists — instant camera translation, offline dictionary, and no VPN required.
VPN
UtilitiesHow to keep using Google, WhatsApp, Instagram and other blocked services in China — what to set up before you arrive.
China's all-in-one super app for messaging, payments, and daily life — and the easiest way for tourists to communicate with locals.
Xiaohongshu (RedNote)
UtilitiesChina's Instagram meets TripAdvisor — discover hidden restaurants, travel tips, and local gems through real user content.