Traveling to China is a truly unique experience, but the language, culture, and certain tech restrictions can definitely be a challenge. If you don’t prepare properly before your trip, you might arrive and suddenly realize that many of the apps you normally use simply don’t work there.
That’s why I’ve written this post, to help you clearly understand which apps are essential when traveling to China.
During the seven years I lived in China (specifically in Yunnan province), studying Chinese and teaching English in Kunming, I used every single one of these apps almost daily. Some are more useful for travelers just passing through, while most are the same ones used daily by locals and expats living in China.
Why Are So Many Foreign Apps Blocked in China?
Many apps are blocked in China as part of the country’s approach to managing internet content and promoting digital sovereignty. China uses a system known as the “Great Firewall” to control access to foreign platforms, ensuring they comply with local laws and regulations.
Most major foreign platforms, like Google, Facebook, and Twitter, are banned because they do not meet the country’s requirements, which include the removal of content considered politically sensitive or contrary to government interests.
So, does that mean Chinese people don’t use social media? Of course they do, but they use their own platforms. These restrictions have led to the development of domestic alternatives like WeChat (China’s version of WhatsApp) and Weibo (similar to X/Twitter), which are not only tailored to local needs, but in some cases even improve upon their Western counterparts. WeChat, for example, is an all-in-one app that can do just about everything, as I’ll explain later.
From this perspective, controlling access to certain apps also aims to preserve social stability and encourage the country’s technological independence. Luckily, there are still plenty of apps that will make your life easier during your trip.
Here’s a list of the must-have apps for traveling in China:
Best Apps for Traveling in China
1. VPN (Virtual Private Network)
AnteBefore you travel, make sure to install a reliable VPN to access blocked apps and websites in China, such as Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, and Gmail. Set it up and test it before you arrive to avoid any surprises. Some popular options include:
- ExpressVPN (paid)
- NordVPN (paid)
- SuperUnlimited VPN (free and paid versions)
- Surfshark (free and paid versions)
Without a doubt, this is the first thing you should consider when preparing your essential apps for China. That said, even if you have a VPN to stay in touch and share your journey, you’ll still need several Chinese apps, not just to enjoy your trip, but to avoid getting stuck or stressed. So let’s keep going.
2. Holafly Esim
This isn’t exactly an app, but rather an eSIM—and it’s a great option if you don’t mind spending a little more. Holafly eSIM is an innovative solution for travelers who want to stay connected without using physical SIM cards or paying for expensive roaming plans. It offers mobile data in over 160 countries, and you can activate your internet plan quickly and easily using just a QR code.
Its main benefits include:
- Multiple data plans to fit your needs
- No roaming fees
- Ability to use a VPN
- Keep your WhatsApp number
- Easy online purchase and activation, no physical shipping required
- Customer support in Spanish
3. WeChat (微信)
WeChat no es solo una app de mensajería, sino el centro de la vida digital en China. Con ella puWeChat isn’t just a messaging app, it’s the center of digital life in China. With it, you can do almost everything:
- Send messages, make calls, and even video calls. It’s like WhatsApp, but with many more features.
- While cash is still accepted, most people now pay for almost everything using their phones. WeChat Pay lets you pay for transportation, restaurants, shops, and more.
- If you plan to live in China, many employers send your salary directly to your WeChat account, and from there you can manage your money however you want.
- You can access tons of mini-programs inside the app, saving you time and storage space, you don’t need to install separate apps.
- There’s also a feature called “Look Around” that helps you connect with people nearby.
It’s truly an all-in-one super app. I go into more detail about how to use it in my post: Living in China: 5 Daily Curiosities and Cultural Differences.
4. Alipay (支付宝)
Another must-have app for mobile payments in China is Alipay. While WeChat Pay is more popular, Alipay tends to be easier for tourists, especially since you can link an international credit card or use a special account for foreigners. That’s one of the main reasons why Alipay is particularly useful for travelers without a Chinese bank account.
Alipay is widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and other services across China. Besides making payments, you can use it for money transfers, paying bills, and shopping online. Transaction fees are usually very low, though they can vary depending on the type of service, especially for international transfers.
One of Alipay’s biggest advantages is its access to additional services like travel insurance, transport bookings (trains or flights), and even event or tourist attraction tickets.
For these reasons, Alipay is one of the essential apps for traveling in China. Whether you’re staying short- or long-term, make sure to download and test it before your trip.
5. Baidu Maps (百度地图) y Gaode Maps (高德地图)
Google Maps doesn’t work well in China, so Baidu Maps and Gaode Maps (Amap) are excellent alternatives. Both offer detailed route and transport info.
Gaode Maps is especially handy since it includes an English interface. You can even order taxis directly from Gaode Maps and pay using WeChat or Alipay, as long as your bank account is linked.
Baidu Maps is great for getting accurate directions and public transport info, especially in urban and rural areas. On the other hand, Gaode Maps is popular for its real-time routes, traffic updates, and estimated arrival times, making it an essential tool for getting around efficiently.
And, of course, both apps also help you find nearby shops, restaurants, and more.
6. Pleco + Hangping Lite
Pleco is a must-have offline Chinese-English dictionary to translate menus, learn useful phrases, or communicate in daily situations. Its offline capabilities are especially handy in China, where internet access can be limited.
You can also expand its features with Hanping Lite, which helps recognize Chinese characters and offers insights into grammar and vocabulary.
Personally, I’ve had these apps on my phone at all times, and I don’t remember a single day without using them. They’re perfect for learning basic Chinese, instant translations, and improving your understanding of the language in a practical and accessible way.
7. Itourtranslator or Traductor Parlante
iTourTranslator and Voice Translator offer real-time voice translation, making them incredibly useful if you don’t speak Chinese. They help in everyday situations like ordering food, asking for directions, or shopping.
Some versions even support image translation, great for reading menus or signs. You can also save translations or create custom phrase lists to save time on the go.
Outside major tourist spots, English is rarely spoken in China, let alone Spanish or other languages. These apps will help you move around China more easily, break language barriers, and improve your overall travel experience.
8. Ctrip (携程)
CKnown as Trip.com outside China, this app is perfect for:
- Booking flights, trains, and hotels
- Checking real-time transport schedules
- Finding exclusive discounts
It’s my go-to travel app. You’ll find more local hotels and hostels than on platforms like Booking or Hostelworld, and they’re often cheaper.
Keep in mind: locals mainly use this app, so many hotels listed cater mostly to Chinese tourists. If you’re looking for places with more international travelers, this might not be your best option.
Trip.com also offers payment in RMB, support in multiple languages, and loyalty points you can redeem on future bookings, great if you plan to stay longer.
9. Didi (滴滴出行)
Think of Didi as China’s Uber. It lets you get around easily and affordably. There’s even an English version of the app for foreigners. You can download it separately or use it within WeChat under the “Apps” section.
In China, taxi drivers usually use the meter, and there’s rarely negotiation, except maybe at airports or in super touristy spots. But if you want to avoid language confusion, Didi is the way to go.
You can request taxis, private cars, and even ride shares, making it a versatile and affordable option.
10. Tantan (探探)
Single and want to meet locals in China? Tantan is the Chinese version of Tinder, and it’s a great way to connect with people, not just for dating, but also for language exchange and expanding your social circle.
While there are some concerns about fake profiles or users looking for superficial connections or money, Tantan is still widely used to meet Chinese people and make new friends.
Just be cautious and stay aware of people’s intentions. It’s still one of the most popular dating apps in China and a great way to interact with locals.
11. XE Currency
A simple yet essential app to convert Chinese yuan (CNY) into your home currency. XE Currency and similar apps let you use them offline if the exchange rate has been updated beforehand, super useful if you don’t always have internet access.
When you first arrive in China, this tool is a must to help you understand prices and avoid getting overcharged for souvenirs or local goods.
Some apps even let you set alerts for favorable exchange rates, helping you save money. You can also compare official rates, bank exchange rates, and money changer rates for better decisions.
More About Traveling in China
I’m sure that with these apps for traveling in China, your journey will be smoother, more enjoyable, and way less stressful. I recommend downloading and setting them up before you land in China to take full advantage from day one.
With these apps on your phone, you’ll not only navigate Chinese cities with ease, but also communicate with locals and make the most of every experience, whether it’s trying street food, exploring hidden gems, or connecting with the culture.
If you’re looking for a more personalized and comfortable way to travel through China, I also organize custom trips for travelers who want to explore the country in a unique way:
- If you’re interested in exploring the deep side of China, with a Spanish-speaking guide and private driver, check out this route: Yunnan Guided Tour: 13 Days in Deep China
- Or if you’d rather see the Avatar Mountains, the ancient city of Fenghuang, and Huangguoshu Waterfall, the largest in China, you might like: Alternative China Tour: The Less Touristy and Most Surprising Side
I can help you plan everything, from transport to activities, so that your experience in China is unforgettable and worry-free. If you’re interested, feel free to reach out for more details. Hope this post about the best apps for traveling in China helps you on your adventure. Have a great trip to China!
