The absolute “Super App”. You cannot survive in China without it. Used for messaging, paying bills, and crucially, accessing Hospital Mini-Programs to book appointments and view lab results.

The primary payment method for hospitals and pharmacies. Often more foreigner-friendly than WeChat for binding international cards. Contains the “Health” section for medical insurance queries.

Google Maps does not work reliably in China. Baidu Maps offers the most accurate data for finding specific hospital entrances, university campuses, and public transport routes.

China’s Uber. Essential for getting to medical appointments or campus safely. The English version supports international phone numbers and credit card payments.

Critical for bridging the language gap. Use the “Voice” and “Camera” features to communicate with doctors who may not speak fluent English or to read prescription labels.