Essential Apps for Traveling in China
China runs on apps. With the right ones installed — and a connection that actually works — getting around is easy. Here's the essential kit for foreign visitors in 2026.
Pay like a local
China is effectively cashless. The good news: both major wallets now accept foreign cards.
- Alipay — link an international Visa/Mastercard and pay by QR almost everywhere. The easiest starting point for tourists.
- WeChat Pay — also supports foreign cards; useful since WeChat is also how locals message.
Set these up before you travel so verification is done.
Get around
- Didi (or the ride-hailing mini-program inside Alipay) — China's Uber. Set pickup/drop-off on a map; no Chinese needed.
- Maps: Apple Maps works well for foreigners. Amap (Gaode) is the local standard with the best transit and walking directions.
- MetroMan / city metro apps — clear subway maps and fares for Beijing, Shanghai, and more.
Communicate
- WeChat — messaging, but also restaurant menus, mini-programs and bookings. Practically required.
- Translation: Pleco is the gold-standard offline Chinese dictionary. Google Translate's app works too — as long as your data bypasses the firewall.
The catch: most of these need an open connection
Several of these apps — and almost anything Google — depend on a connection that isn't blocked. On a normal Chinese SIM or hotel Wi-Fi, Google Maps and Translate won't load.
That's why travelers pair these apps with a roaming China eSIM that routes data outside the mainland: your maps, translation and messaging all work without a VPN, from the moment you land.
Quick pre-trip checklist
- ✅ Install and verify Alipay (+ WeChat) with your card
- ✅ Add Didi and a maps app
- ✅ Install Pleco for offline translation
- ✅ Set up a roaming eSIM so it all stays online
Do this before you fly and you'll step off the plane ready to pay, ride, navigate and chat — no scrambling at the airport.