Many Western apps are blocked in China. Here's exactly what to install before you fly — payments, maps, transport, translation, and staying connected.
Category 01 · Most critical
China is one of the most cashless societies on earth. Street vendors, restaurants, taxis, and temples all use QR code payments. Without at least one of these, daily life becomes genuinely difficult.
The single most important app for any China trip. WeChat Pay is accepted virtually everywhere. Since 2023, foreign visitors can link an international Visa or Mastercard directly — no Chinese bank account required.
Alipay's Tourist Pass is designed for foreign visitors — top up a virtual wallet with your international card. Also useful for hotel bookings, food delivery, and attraction tickets.
Category 02
Google Maps is blocked in mainland China and its map data is deliberately offset, making directions inaccurate. Use what locals use every day.
China's most accurate and comprehensive mapping app. Real-time traffic, subway directions, walking routes, and a vast local business database that Google Maps simply can't match inside China.
Category 03
From hailing a taxi to booking high-speed trains, these apps make getting around China straightforward even without local knowledge.
China's dominant ride-hailing app — think Uber but more reliable within China. The international version supports English and accepts foreign credit cards. Safer and cheaper than street taxis in most cities.
The best English-language app for booking high-speed rail across China. Covers flights, hotels, and airport transfers. Book popular routes like Guangzhou–Shenzhen or Beijing–Shanghai well in advance during holidays.
Category 04
Outside major tourist zones, English signage is rare. These two apps together cover almost every language situation — from menus to street signs to handwritten notes.
The gold standard Chinese-English dictionary. Features handwriting input, audio pronunciation, and OCR camera scanning. Works fully offline — essential when you've run out of data or can't connect.
Works reliably inside China without a VPN. Supports text, voice, camera, and live conversation translation. Handles menus and handwritten signs better than most alternatives.
Category 06 · Install before flying
Google, YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, and most Western news sites are blocked in China. A VPN allows access — but must be installed and tested before you board your flight.
Popular options with a consistent track record in China include ExpressVPN, Astrill, and NordVPN. No VPN works 100% of the time — install two as a backup. Subscriptions run around US$5–15/month.
Complete these steps in order before boarding your flight
Before you go
Four things that make the biggest difference for first-time visitors to China.
Common questions
What apps do I need before visiting China?
At minimum: WeChat (messaging and payments), Alipay (payments), DiDi (taxis), Baidu Maps (navigation), Pleco (translation), and a VPN. All should be downloaded and set up before you arrive.
Can foreigners use WeChat Pay and Alipay in China?
Yes. Both WeChat Pay and Alipay now allow many foreign visitors to link international Visa or Mastercard cards, making cashless payments much easier without a Chinese bank account.
Does Google Maps work in China?
No. Google Maps is blocked in mainland China and directions are often inaccurate. Use Baidu Maps or Amap instead.
Do I need a VPN for my China trip?
If you want to use Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, or many Western news sites, yes. Install and test your VPN before you fly.
Is cash still accepted in China?
Yes, cash is still legally accepted, but many businesses strongly prefer QR mobile payments. Carry some RMB as a backup.
Do I need a Chinese SIM card?
Not always. International roaming or an eSIM can work for many travelers, but a local SIM can be cheaper and more reliable for longer stays.
Category 05 · Bonus apps
Social & food apps
Not essential for survival, but great for discovering local culture, finding trending restaurants, and getting food delivered late at night.
Douyin is the Chinese version of TikTok with localised content that never appears on the international platform. Great for discovering trending restaurants, cultural events, and hidden gems in every city you visit.
China's answer to Uber Eats combined with Yelp. Covers food delivery, restaurant reviews, and hotel bookings. Invaluable when you want a meal delivered quickly and cheaply to your hotel room.