GETTING READY
The apps to install before you fly
Install these at home while your usual app store still works. Links go to each official site. I don't list VPN apps. A roaming eSIM is the simpler way to keep your usual apps working.
Last checked in China: October 2026
| App | What it's for | Need it? | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alipay ↗ | Paying, taxis, metro | Yes | Link your card at home; taxis and metro codes are inside. |
| WeChat ↗ | Messaging, paying | Yes | Sign-up may need a friend to verify you. Do it early. |
| Amap ↗ | Maps | Yes | Google Maps is often off in China. Amap has English. |
| Trip.com ↗ | Trains, hotels, tickets | Yes | Easiest way to book trains in English. |
| Google Translate ↗ | Translation | Yes | Download the Chinese offline pack before you leave. |
| DiDi ↗ | Taxis | Handy | Also works from inside Alipay. |
| Railway 12306 ↗ | Official train tickets | Handy | Has an English version. |
| Dianping ↗ | Restaurant reviews | Handy | Chinese only. Use your camera translator. |
| NIA 12367 ↗ | Visa rules, registration | Handy | Official immigration info and online registration. |
| Baidu Maps ↗ | Maps (backup) | Optional | Second opinion when Amap looks odd. |
| Meituan ↗ | Food delivery | Optional | Chinese only; Ele.me in Alipay is easier. |
| RedNote ↗ | Local tips | Optional | Search a neighborhood to see where locals go. |
| Pleco ↗ | Dictionary | Optional | Point your camera at a character. |
Next: set up Alipay with your own card · pick a roaming eSIM