China runs on a different set of apps from the rest of the world. Set these up at home, where you can receive verification texts easily, and your trip will be far smoother.
Paying: Alipay and WeChat Pay
Mobile payment is the norm in China, from restaurants and taxis to market stalls. Both Alipay and WeChat Pay let visitors link a foreign Visa or Mastercard. Set them up before you leave, test them with a small payment, and keep some cash as a backup.
Messaging: WeChat
WeChat is how people in China message, call and share contacts — hotels, guides and new friends will ask for your WeChat. It also contains thousands of mini-programs for tickets, museums and food ordering.
Rides: DiDi
DiDi is China’s main ride-hailing service and offers an English interface. You can also call DiDi from inside Alipay. Fares are paid in the app.
Maps: Amap or Apple Maps
Amap (Gaode) has the most accurate maps and public transport routes in China. Apple Maps uses Chinese map data and works well in English. Google Maps loads on a China eSIM, but its data in China is often out of date.
Trains, flights and hotels: Trip.com
Trip.com sells high-speed train tickets, flights and hotels in English. The official railway app, 12306, also has an English version. Bring your passport — it is your ticket at station gates.
Translation
Use a camera translation app such as Google Translate or a Chinese alternative for menus and signs, and download offline language packs before you go.
All of these apps run on your China eSIM data — see our China eSIM plans.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners use Alipay and WeChat Pay?
Yes. Both let visitors link a foreign Visa or Mastercard. Set them up before you travel and keep some cash as a backup.
Is DiDi available in English?
Yes, DiDi offers an English interface, and you can also call DiDi rides from inside Alipay.
Which map app should I use in China?
Amap (Gaode) or Apple Maps. Google Maps loads on the eSIM, but its data in China is often out of date.
Get online in China the moment you land
China eSIM from $0.90 · QR code by email · China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom