Must-Have Apps When Visiting China

When planning a trip to China, having the right apps on your smartphone can significantly enhance your travel experience. From navigating unfamiliar streets to overcoming language barriers, the following apps are essential for any traveler in China. These apps will not only help you communicate but also ensure that you can enjoy the local culture and efficiently manage your trip.

1. WeChat (微信)

WeChat is the most popular app in China and a must-have for anyone visiting the country. It’s much more than just a messaging app. WeChat functions as a social media platform, a payment system, and even a way to book services. You can use it to chat with friends, share moments, pay for purchases, and even order food or a taxi. Almost all businesses in China accept WeChat Pay, making it a convenient way to handle transactions without carrying cash.

2. Alipay (支付宝)

Alipay is another essential app, especially for payments. While WeChat Pay is widely used, Alipay is equally popular and accepted almost everywhere in China. It’s particularly useful for tourists as it offers an international version that allows you to link a foreign credit card. Additionally, Alipay offers various travel services such as booking flights, trains, hotels, and even purchasing travel insurance.

3. Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行)

Didi Chuxing is China’s equivalent of Uber, and it’s the most convenient way to get around cities if you don’t speak the local language. The app has an English interface, making it accessible for foreign travelers. Didi offers various ride options, from budget-friendly carpooling to luxury cars, and the prices are usually lower than traditional taxis.

4. Baidu Maps (百度地图)

Google Maps is not as reliable in China due to restrictions, so Baidu Maps is the best alternative. This app provides detailed and accurate maps, navigation, and public transportation routes throughout China. It also offers a voice navigation feature in English, which is incredibly helpful for non-Chinese speakers.

5. Pleco

Communication can be a challenge in China if you don’t speak Mandarin. Pleco is a powerful Chinese-English dictionary that works offline, making it an essential tool for travelers. The app allows you to look up words by typing, handwriting, or even using your camera to translate text in real time. Pleco is invaluable for reading menus, signs, and other important documents.

6. Ctrip (携程)

Ctrip, also known as Trip.com, is one of the most popular travel booking apps in China. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including flight bookings, hotel reservations, train tickets, and even tour packages. The app supports multiple languages, including English, and provides customer service to help you with any travel-related issues.

7. ExpressVPN

Given that many Western websites and apps are blocked in China, having a reliable VPN is crucial. ExpressVPN is one of the most reliable VPN services that works well in China, allowing you to access sites like Google, Facebook, and Instagram. It’s essential to install the VPN before arriving in China, as VPN services can be hard to download once you’re in the country.

8. Meituan (美团)

Meituan is a super-app that offers a wide range of services, from food delivery to hotel bookings and travel arrangements. It’s an all-in-one app that makes your stay in China much easier. Whether you need to find a good restaurant, order takeout, or book a hotel, Meituan has you covered.

9. Sherpa’s

If you’re craving Western food or have specific dietary requirements, Sherpa’s is the go-to app for food delivery in major Chinese cities. The app offers a wide range of international restaurants and provides English-language support, making it easy for foreigners to use. While other delivery apps like Meituan are more popular with locals, Sherpa’s specializes in catering to expatriates and travelers.

10. China Train Booking

Navigating China’s vast rail network can be daunting, but the China Train Booking app makes it much simpler. The app allows you to search for train schedules, book tickets, and even have them delivered to your hotel. It’s an indispensable tool for anyone planning to travel by train, which is often the fastest and most efficient way to travel between cities in China.

In conclusion, downloading and familiarizing yourself with these apps before your trip will save you time and stress, allowing you to focus on enjoying your experience in China. From payments to navigation and communication, these apps cover all the essentials, ensuring that your trip goes smoothly.