The apps you actually need in China (2026)

✅ Updated Jun 2026

You do not need dozens of apps to travel or live well in China — you need about seven, and they replace almost everything. Install these before or right after you arrive and daily life gets dramatically easier. Alipay and WeChat are the foundation. They are how you pay for everything by QR code, and both now accept foreign Visa and Mastercard for visitors. WeChat is also China's universal messenger and mini-app platform; Alipay doubles as a hub for transit cards, ride-hailing, and mini-programs. If you install only two apps, install these. For getting around, add DiDi and a map. DiDi is China's ride-hailing app and has a full English interface — you type your destination, so there is no language barrier with the driver. For maps, Apple Maps works well inside China; if you are on Android or want the most detail, use Amap (Gaode), the local standard. Avoid relying on Google Maps here, as it is not reliable on the mainland. For trains and travel, use Trip.com or the official 12306 app to book high-speed rail with your passport, and to reserve hotels that are licensed to host foreign guests. For food and daily life, Meituan and Dianping (think delivery plus a local review guide) show you what is good nearby and bring it to your door, though they are mostly in Chinese. Finally, for language, a translation app plus a good dictionary go a long way. Many travelers pair a general translator with Pleco, the well-loved Chinese dictionary, and use the camera-translate feature to read menus and signs. Combined with Alipay's and WeChat's built-in translation, you can get through almost any situation. That is the whole toolkit: two for payments and messaging (Alipay, WeChat), two for getting around (DiDi, Apple Maps or Amap), one for travel booking (Trip.com or 12306), one for food and discovery (Meituan/Dianping), and one for language. Set them up early and you will rarely feel stuck.

1. 1

   Install Alipay and WeChat first and link an international card — these are your wallet and messenger.

2. 2

   Add DiDi for taxis (English interface) and Amap or Apple Maps for directions.

3. 3

   Use Trip.com or the 12306 app to book high-speed trains with your passport.

   高铁 · gāo tiě

4. 4

   Get Meituan/Dianping for food delivery and local reviews, and a translation app + Pleco for language.