Essential Apps
Download these before you travel to ensure a smooth experience in China
Before You Land
Set up all apps and accounts before arriving in China. Download Alipay, WeChat, and Amap. Register with your passport and credit card. It's much harder to do this after you land.
See all essential apps βMaps in China: What Actually Works
Google Maps
Outdated data, not useful for navigation in China. Even with connectivity, map data hasn't been updated in years.
Apple Maps
Works well in China β automatically switches to Baidu Maps as backend. Good for navigation, transit, and finding businesses.
Amap (ι«εΎ·ε°εΎ) β
Best native option. English interface available. Includes transit directions, nearby restaurants, and even toilet locations. Download before you go.
Amap (ι«εΎ·ε°εΎ)
Must-HaveGoogle Maps alternative for China. English interface available. Offline maps downloadable. Essential for navigation.
Didi (ζ»΄ζ»΄)
Must-HaveChinese Uber. English version available. Pay with cash or Alipay. Safer and more reliable than street taxis.
π‘ Tip: You can access DiDi directly inside Alipay (no separate app needed). The Alipay version includes translation and easy payment.
Pleco
Must-HaveBest Chinese-English dictionary. Camera translation for menus/signs. Offline mode available. Lifesaver for communication.
Alipay / WeChat Pay
Mobile payment (see Payment Setup)
Trip.com
Book trains, flights, hotels (English interface)
VPN
ExpressVPN or Astrill (if needed for Google/Instagram)
Google Translate
Download Chinese offline pack before you travel
Kuli Kuli
Translation app specifically optimized for Chinese. More accurate than Google Translate for menus, signs, and real-time conversation. Works offline.
- β’ Optimized for Chinese-to-English translation
- β’ Menu and sign translation with camera
- β’ Works without internet connection
Microsoft Translator
Reliable alternative for Chinese translation. Supports voice, text, and camera translation. Free and works well in China.
- β’ Voice and text translation
- β’ Camera translation for signs and menus
- β’ Download language packs for offline use
π‘ Pro Tips
- βDownload offline maps in Amap before you travel (you can do this at home on WiFi)
- βSet up Alipay/WeChat Pay before you leave (see Payment Setup)
- βDownload Chinese language pack in Google Translate for offline translation
- βTest VPN before traveling if you plan to use it - not all work reliably in China
Next Steps
Now that you know which apps to download, continue preparing for your trip