Why the Right Apps Matter in China

If you’ve ever tried using Google Maps or WhatsApp in China, you know it can be frustrating or downright impossible without a VPN. The Chinese internet operates differently, and many Western apps don’t work or have limited functionality. Our team quickly realized that adapting to this reality early makes all the difference. From translation to payment, the apps you install before your trip can save you hours of hassle.

Let me walk you through the apps I now always have ready before any trip to China.

1. WeChat (微信)

I can’t emphasize enough: WeChat isn’t just a messaging app, it’s your social wallet, booking assistant, and news feed all in one. Nearly everyone in China uses it—whether it’s ordering street food, scanning QR codes for entry, or splitting a taxi fare. Before you arrive, set up your account and link a payment method. It’s a total game-changer.

2. Alipay (支付宝)

For cashless payments outside of WeChat, Alipay is the other giant. I use it often for everything from convenience store snacks to street markets. It also offers features like booking flights and hotels. If you plan to shop or dine frequently, having both WeChat and Alipay ensures you’ll never be caught without a payment option.

3. Baidu Maps (百度地图)

Google Maps doesn’t work reliably in China, so I switched to Baidu Maps years ago. The app provides detailed transit routes, driving directions, and walking paths with local accuracy. It also includes real-time traffic updates, which helped me avoid getting stuck in Beijing’s infamous gridlocks. The interface is mostly in Chinese, but don’t worry—pinpoint your destination on Google beforehand and save the Chinese names to copy and paste into Baidu.

4. Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行)

Trying to hail a taxi isn’t easy for non-Mandarin speakers. Didi Chuxing is like the Uber of China, and I rely on it wherever I travel. You can request cars in English, and it shows you approximate fares upfront. The app accepts WeChat and Alipay payments, so once you have those ready, Didi becomes your best transportation buddy.

5. Pleco Dictionary

Chinese is tough, no doubt. Pleco is hands-down the best Chinese-English dictionary app I’ve used. It includes stroke order animations, handwriting input, and audio pronunciations. When I’m in a pinch trying to read menus or signs, Pleco helps me decode what I’m looking at. Bonus: I often copy and paste phrases from Pleco straight into WeChat when chatting with locals.

6. Ctrip / Trip.com

Booking flights, trains, and hotels is much easier with Ctrip (now branded as Trip.com). It offers an English interface and reliable customer service. Our team has successfully booked bullet train tickets last minute using this app, which is a huge relief when plans change on the fly. It’s a solid one-stop shop for travel logistics.

7. Google Translate (with Offline Chinese Packs)

Even though many Google services are blocked in China, Google Translate still works with a VPN or on airplane mode if you download the Chinese language packs in advance. I use its camera feature to instantly translate signs and menus—usually a lifesaver in rural areas. Its phrasebook is also useful for basic communication.

8. MetroMan / City Subway Apps

Major Chinese cities have sprawling metro networks, and the local subway apps are surprisingly helpful. For example, MetroMan for Shanghai and Beijing Subway app provide detailed station info, transfer routes, and first/last train times. These apps often update faster than Google Maps and sometimes include discounts for e-tickets.

9. Meituan (美团)

Want to order food delivery or find discounts at local restaurants? Meituan is the go-to app. It’s like the Chinese equivalent of Yelp combined with Uber Eats. Although it’s mostly in Chinese, the interface is fairly intuitive, and you can translate basic menus with Google Translate or Pleco. Our team found it particularly handy during rainy days when eating in was the better option.

10. XE Currency Converter

With fluctuating exchange rates, it’s handy to have a reliable currency conversion app. XE is simple, fast, and doesn’t require an internet connection once rates are updated. I check it frequently when I’m juggling prices in yuan versus my home currency, so I don’t get sticker shock or overpay inadvertently.

FAQ

Q: Do I need a VPN to use these apps in China?

A: Generally, the apps on this list work without a VPN since they are designed for China’s network. However, some Western apps like Google Translate may require a VPN unless you download offline packs beforehand.

Q: Can I use WeChat and Alipay with foreign credit cards?

A: It’s possible but can be complicated. We recommend linking them to a Chinese bank account if you can, or using a prepaid travel card supported by these platforms. Some foreign credit cards are increasingly accepted, but having cash as a backup is wise.

Q: How can I download these apps before arriving in China?

A: Most of these apps are available on both iOS and Android app stores outside China. Just search their English or Chinese names. For better security and fewer issues, download and set up accounts before you fly.

If you want personalized guidance on what apps and tools fit your specific China itinerary, feel free to reach out to us at hellochinatrip.com. We’ve helped thousands of travelers get digitally prepared for their journeys without the usual headaches.