Essential Apps for Traveling in China

WeChat is where messaging, social media, and payments combine. Nearly everyone in China uses it daily. Before your trip, add your tour guide or travel consultant here for smooth communication.

Download & Setup

Get WeChat from your app store (choose the international version). Registration requires a mobile number (most countries supported), not an email account. The app automatically switches to your phone's language or defaults to English.

WeChat Pay

Link an international Visa or Mastercard to enable payments. Go to Me > Services > Wallet > Cards to add your card. While you can pay at larger stores by showing your QR code, at smaller vendors you'll scan their code instead. Set it up before you travel for quicker, easier transactions.

Alipay specializes in digital payments and everyday services. Like WeChat Pay, it works with international cards and supports multiple languages. It also lets you book trains, order taxis, and buy attraction tickets. A handy "Touch-and-Pay" feature lets you pay by tapping your phone on a sensor. Frequent travelers to Europe will appreciate Alipay's streamlined tax refund service.

While you can use either app for payments, we recommend installing both to cover all situations.

Didi is China's leading ride-hailing platform. The app supports English - enter your destination, and the driver receives the translation. Always double-check station names, though; some sound similar (e.g., Guilin Railway Station vs. Guilin North Railway Station).

Use platforms like Trip.com, TripAdvisor, or Get Your Guide to book tours, buy tickets, and plan activities. Many of our own ChinaTravelVIP tours are available there too.

Meituan is the top app for food delivery, but it’s almost entirely in Chinese. While the app interface may translate, restaurant names and menus usually don’t. If you want to experience China’s famous food delivery without the language struggle, join one of our tours - your guide can help you order. In Shanghai, you can even try drone-delivered coffee!

These platforms offer everything you can imagine, but the language barrier is significant. If you do order, check delivery times carefully - you don’t want packages arriving after you’ve left.

With these apps installed and set up, you’ll navigate China with confidence. From paying for street food to booking a taxi, your phone will become your most valuable travel companion.