Apps For China Travel: Your Detailed Guide for Exploring China
Heading to China? From mobile payments to ride-hailing and translation, having the right apps on your phone is essential for a smooth trip. Here are the must-have China travel apps you need to download before landing.
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Must-Have Apps for Traveling in China
If you come to travel in China, you need to prepare in all aspects of food, clothing, accommodation and transportation. These apps will be able to help you solve most of the scenarios you need in China. Getting to know these apps in advance will make your trip to China smoother!😀Pro Tip: To stay connected throughout your visit, consider getting a China eSIM. Just activate and go!
Category | App Name | Notes |
Communication | Also used for payments (if set up) | |
Payment | Alipay | Widely accepted; cash alternative |
Navigation | Baidu Maps | Better than Google Maps in China |
Translation | Google Translate | Download Chinese language pack |
Translation | Pleco | Great for learning Chinese characters |
Ride-hailing | DiDi | Link international card for payment |
Travel Booking | Trip.com | Formerly Ctrip; covers China well |
Subway Navigation | MetroMan | User-friendly for tourists |
Food & Dining | Dianping | Chinese Yelp |
Apps for China Travel | WeChat
Like whatsapp, wechat is mainly a tool for communication. However, it also has the functions of payment and scanning codes to order food in restaurants. When traveling in China, wechat is definitely a software that you must download and understand. I have listed its main functions for you:
Essential Communication
The dominant way locals communicate. Necessary for contacting hotels, tour guides, drivers, restaurants (reservations, questions), or fellow travelers. Unlike WhatsApp, WeChat works reliably without a VPN.
Mandatory Digital Payments
- WeChat Pay is one of China's two dominant cashless payment systems (alongside Alipay). You can pay with WeChat almost at anywhere.
- Setting Up: Absolutely critical to set up WeChat Pay before arrival and link an international credit card (supported by WeChat, though setup can sometimes be fiddly). Alternatives like "TourCard" exist if linking fails.
Access Key to "Mini-Programs"
This is WeChat's secret sauce for tourists. You can regard Mini-Programs as lightweight apps within WeChat, no separate download needed!
Examples Vital for Travel:
- Public Transport: Scan city metro/bus QR codes using Mini-Programs.
- Ride-Hailing: Access DiDi directly.
- Travel Booking: Use Trip.com for flights, trains, hotels, tours.
- Food Ordering / Reviews: Access Dianping (大众点评 - like Yelp) for reviews and reservations.
- Bike-Sharing: Scan Meituan bikes.
- Attractions: Book tickets or access audio guides.
- Translation: Mini-Programs for quick translation.
QR Code Scanner
- Pay: Scan vendor QR codes instantly to pay.
- Add Contacts: Scan someone's WeChat QR to add them.
- Access Everything: Scan codes everywhere - menus, attraction info points, museum exhibits, hotel check-in, airport services, posters, even adding WiFi sometimes. WeChat is your go-to scanning tool.
Key Setup Tips for Travelers
- Download & Register BEFORE Arrival: Do this on your home SIM if possible. Verify your account.
- Set Up WeChat Pay: Link an international credit card (Visa/Mastercard) ASAP. Look for "Wallet" -> "Cards" -> "Add a Card".
- Add Funds: If card linking works, top up a small balance (¥100-200) for initial small purchases before your bank authorizations kick in each time. If linking fails, research "TourPass" or "TourCard" alternatives.
- Search for Mini-Programs: Immediately find key ones like DiDi, Trip, Dianping.
😀Pro Tip: To stay connected throughout your visit, consider getting a China eSIM. Just activate and go!
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754544 booked
Apps for China Travel | Alipay
When it comes to payment methods, another one that cannot be ignored is Alipay. It is listed as one of the two most popular payment methods in China along with wechat pay. Unlike wechat, alipay focuses on payment, but compared with wechat, it also has some different functions and advantages.
The biggest difference between wechat and Alipay mainly lies in that wechat is used for social interaction. Usually, small transfers between acquaintances are mainly made through wechat. Alipay, on the other hand, mainly focuses on electronic payments. Online shopping and utility bills are still mainly handled through Alipay. However, when you use the Taobao software, wechat usually cannot make payments, so Alipay still has its place.
Why Alipay over Wechat?
- Alipay revolutionizes the payment experience for international travelers with its TourPass feature. This dedicated prepaid balance system bypasses China's strict bank account requirements, allowing foreigners link international Visa or Mastercard cards more easily.
- Top up once, and you can pay seamlessly everywhere—from street vendors to high-end boutiques, but you still to need to show your code on WeChat to Pay.
- Unlike WeChat Pay, transactions rarely face declines, making Alipay the most reliable cashless tool for visitors.
Apps for China Travel | Trip.com
Trip apps are essential digital tools for travelers exploring China, combining itinerary planning, real-time navigation, local discovery, and booking services in one platform. These apps solve most travelers‘ challenges including:
- Transport Booking: Secure high-speed train and flight tickets
- Attractions: You can find the ticket of any attraction and how to book it
- Hotels: You can book hotels with discounts
- Car Hire: Provide car rental service
- Integrated Payments: Pay via Alipay and WeChat Pay inside partnered apps
Things to Do in China
Beijing
Shanghai
Guangzhou
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![Mutianyu Great Wall Day Trip [ZANBUS - Daily departures at 8/9/10 AM]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0356012000sgcf58vC123_C_568_320.jpg)
![Half-Day Tour to Zhujiajiao Ancient Town [Explore the Millennial Water Town with Timeless Charm and Lively Atmosphere]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0352m12000pbrd487A4C6_C_568_320.jpg)
![1-day tour to Qianlonggou Waterfall + Xitou Village + Baishuizhai Scenic Area [Summer Resort]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images//0583912000n1b59osD361_C_568_320.jpg)
Apps for China Travel | Didi
DiDi Chuxing is China’s largest ride-hailing platform. With over 550 million users, it’s the #1 app for booking taxis, private cars, premium rides, and even buses across 4,000+ cities. For travelers, it’s a lifeline: no language haggling, no cash payments, and real-time tracking in a country where street taxis can be challenging.
It is not only affordable in price, but also available in most cities in China. Whether you are looking for a cheap car or a more comfortable one, Didi offers different types of rides (such as the fast ride "Express", or the more advanced "Lux").
Besides, unlike taxis, the Didi app will display the price in advance, so it won't surprise you.
And especially for English users, you just need to select the destination on the software and provide the last four digits of your mobile phone when getting on the bus.
Apps for China Travel | Baidu Maps
Baidu Maps is China’s answer to Google Maps – but optimized for the country’s unique infrastructure. With 1.3 billion+ users, it’s the most accurate tool for navigating cities, public transport, and hidden alleyways where global apps fail.
Baidu Maps has also launched an English version of the map, which not only supports English navigation but also covers various travel methods such as walking, cycling, public transportation and driving.
According to the official introduction, the English version of Baidu Maps has built over 1.5 million precise points of interest data, covering more than 100 subcategories of information in 19 major categories such as food, hotels, and life services. Whether it is looking for restaurants, scenic spots or supermarkets, the English version of the map provides intuitive information, greatly eliminating the inconvenience caused by language barriers and offering a comprehensive reference for foreign tourists.
Apps for China Travel | Meituan
Meituan is China’s "everything app" — merging food delivery, travel booking, local services, and entertainment into one platform. With 650M+ users, it handles 70% of China’s food delivery orders and powers millions of daily bookings. For travelers, it’s the digital key to authentic local experiences beyond tourist traps.
Core Functions for Travelers
Food Delivery: Order from 10M+ restaurants (street stalls to high-end). Multilingual photo menus & reviews.
Services: Book massages, haircuts, pet grooming, and repair services.
Ride Services: Hail taxis, bikes, and e-scooters.
China Hotels Recommendation
5 star
Outstanding11908 Reviews
People's Square Area Shanghai|0.54km from downtown
I specifically booked this room for a client. The front desk was very helpful and arranged the room and check-in procedures before their arrival, making the check-in process smooth and efficient. The room was clean and quiet, perfect for working and resting. The front desk service was attentive, and the transportation was convenient. The overall arrangements were thoughtful and well-executed, perfectly suiting business travel needs. I will definitely choose this hotel for future business trips.FromAU$ 149
Outstanding6461 Reviews
People's Square Area Shanghai|0.47km from downtown
The Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World is grand and spotless overall, with an unbeatable location. Oliver and Vanida provided gentle and professional service; the check-in process was smooth, and they patiently and thoroughly answered all my travel-related questions. They were friendly and considerate, and their service throughout was very patient. This stay was extremely comfortable and is highly recommended.FromAU$ 174
Outstanding8320 Reviews
People's Square Area Shanghai|0.7km from downtown
Facilities: The cleaning staff did a great job; everything is very clean and convenient to use. The bed is super comfortable. The hotel also has a breakfast restaurant, a Chinese restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, and more – the facilities are complete.
Hygiene: The bed, floor, and walls are all very clean and look great.
Service: The front desk staff are responsible, enthusiastic, and have excellent service attitudes. I'm very satisfied, especially with the robot that delivers takeout to your room – it's really fun!
Environment: The hotel is very clean overall, and there's a pleasant aroma in the lobby that smells very comfortable.FromAU$ 234
Very Good5253 Reviews
Huaihai Road Area/Xintiandi Area Shanghai|1.78km from downtown
I stayed at the Garden Hotel again during the May Golden Week holiday to watch the Longines Global Champions Tour in Shanghai.
My first stay at the Garden Hotel was 30 years ago. The marble in the lobby, the Rose restaurant, and the small mosaic tiles in the corridors still maintain their grand and elegant style. That's why I always come back to this familiar place whenever I return to China.
It was a family member's birthday on the day we checked in, and the hotel gave us a box of rich chocolates. I was truly touched by the hotel's thoughtfulness, it made us very happy!
**Facilities**: The TOTO toilet at the Garden Hotel is my favorite because of its washlet function, making going to the restroom so comfortable! The depth and length of the bathtub are also perfect for me. The slippers are very thick and durable; I always feel reluctant to throw them away when checking out. I even take the used slippers with me to wear on planes or high-speed trains.
**Hygiene**: The hygiene details are impeccable. The towels are soft and comfortable, with dense loops, making them very reassuring to use on the skin.
**Environment**: The hotel has its own garden, where you can enjoy a rare tranquility in the city of Shanghai during a morning stroll! Just one traffic light to the left of the hotel entrance, there are many small bars and restaurants! There are even two Michelin-starred restaurants! It's definitely worth a walk and exploring.
**Service**: I bought many things online, and they were delivered to the hotel in batches. The concierge meticulously recorded everything and delivered them to our room! When we left, the concierge helped put our luggage in the car trunk, opened and closed the doors, and politely bid us farewell.
**Welcome Package**: We received canned drinks and snacks, which was a nice surprise!FromAU$ 139
Outstanding10548 Reviews
Train Station Area Shanghai|2.4km from downtown
My stay at the Pullman Jing An was a delightful surprise! The hotel offers a peaceful retreat amidst the city bustle, with a grand and comfortable ambiance. Every corner of the room was meticulously clean. The bedding and bathroom facilities were excellent and well-maintained. The staff were friendly and attentive, responding quickly to any requests. It's a perfect choice for both business trips and short getaways. I'll definitely choose this hotel again next time I'm in Shanghai.FromAU$ 128
Business travel
Outstanding11910 Reviews
People's Square Area Shanghai|0.73km from downtown
I recently stayed at Yitel Premium and absolutely loved it! The location is amazing—right in the heart of the pedestrian street, so it's super convenient to walk anywhere. It's also really close to a famous Xiaolongbao restaurant, and DiDi drivers can pick you up right in front of the hotel.
The hotel itself is very clean, and housekeeping did a great job cleaning my room every single day. The best part was that my stay coincided with my birthday, and the staff was so sweet to upgrade my room for free! The service here is top-notch. I also loved the complimentary tea and coffee in the lobby, and the free washing machine was a huge plus.
The only minor things were a slight cigarette smell that probably came through the AC vents, which was understandable. However, the only real downside was that my room faced the main road, so the traffic noise was quite loud. Overall, it was a wonderful stay and I highly recommend it!FromAU$ 113
2541 Reviews
Jing'an District/West Nanjing Road Shanghai|0.85km from downtown
I stayed at this hotel back when it was still the Kempinski and always had a pleasant experience. This time, under the new IHG Vignette Collection branding, the stay fell far short of expectations.
Upon arrival, there was no one outside to assist with luggage. Staff members only rushed out after they saw me already pulling my bags from the car myself. The check-in process was noticeably slower, and I wasn’t offered an upgrade — which used to be a regular, appreciated gesture during my previous stays. I was given one of the smallest rooms I’ve ever had in this hotel.
The room itself had several issues. The microwave didn’t work at all, so I couldn’t heat up the takeaway I’d brought. The bedroom TV remote wasn’t responsive; I struggled with it for a long time and eventually just managed to turn the TV off, but not control it. The worst part was the noise from the room above — constant, disruptive sounds that went on until well past midnight, severely affecting my sleep. I did call reception about it, but the noise continued.
Checkout felt impersonal and rushed. No one asked how my stay was. I simply handed over my room key and that was it. When my pre-ordered car had trouble finding the hotel entrance, I handed the phone to a staff member expecting them to guide the driver. Instead, he simply found out where the car was parked, handed the phone back, and left me to drag my luggage there on my own.
The only positive is the central location, which remains excellent. But for service, room comfort, and attention to detail, this was a letdown. I hope they can bring back the standards they used to have.FromAU$ 232
Excellent9314 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.73km from downtown
The service was exceptionally thoughtful, and the front desk staff were very well organized. The complimentary travel photoshoot turned out great, offering excellent value for money. The location is also superb, being close to Yu Garden and the Bund. Truly five-star service. Highly recommended. The breakfast had a great variety too.FromAU$ 173
Good8615 Reviews
The North Bund Area Shanghai|2.55km from downtown
I’m so glad I chose the Mehood Elegant Hotel. It was the perfect location — close to everything, not too crowded, yet not too remote either. I traveled solo with my 14-month-old toddler, and he was absolutely spoiled by all the hotel staff. Everyone treated us with so much kindness and care.
Jerry checked us in and out and even gave me a cute fridge magnet. The breakfast was delicious with so many options to choose from, the rooms were cleaned daily, and bottled water was always replenished.
Xiao Jun also took great care of us, and Yinhe Juan felt like an auntie to us. We looked forward to seeing them every morning at breakfast. They all made my stay feel so warm and welcoming — truly like a home away from home.
I’m incredibly grateful for their hospitality, and if I ever find myself back in Shanghai again, I’ll definitely be booking Mehood.
PS: the view from my room was incredible!FromAU$ 164
Good3783 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.27km from downtown
I’ve stayed here for the second time ( first was before Covid lockdown) in January 2020, both times I got an upgrade to the Pearl tower and bund view!!! This time i. May because I needed to be closer to the vfs consulate embassy service for an appointment ( roughly 10 min slow walk)
Thank you so much.
The room is neat and tidy, and the front desk service is excellent, I called to get toothbrush & toothpaste and they responded in a couple of minutes.
The shower is a little worn out but clean and the view out of the bathroom is spectacular.
I ordered room service dinner because I am on a diet and the dumplings were so yummy.
The hotel is beautiful and smells really good.FromAU$ 204
Breakfast
Outstanding10439 Reviews
Sheshan, Songjiang University Town Shanghai|35.83km from downtown
The Sapphire Room is definitely a lot better than the Ruby Room.
Brought my family here for lunch on a weekend. The ambiance is great, quite elegant and quiet. We arrived early, so there weren't many people around.
The dishes have a nice fusion cuisine touch.
The Roasted Pigeon: The skin was incredibly crispy, clearly freshly roasted, much crispier than what you usually find elsewhere. The skin alone was amazing.
The Snow Pea and Honey Pepper Beef Cubes: The snow peas were the star, truly glistening. The beef cubes were well-done but very tender.
The Rich Chicken Broth with Bamboo Shoots and Old Tofu: This local specialty old tofu was quite unique.
The Seafood Poached Rice: Very fresh, packed with ingredients, and hearty.FromAU$ 297
Very Good2527 Reviews
Wujiaochang Commercial Area Shanghai|9.08km from downtown
The hotel's location is excellent, and cleanliness wasn't an issue.
However, the facilities had some significant drawbacks. The bathroom door was very problematic; the toilet and shower shared the same glass door, which was extremely difficult to slide and very inconvenient (as shown in the picture). There were too few power outlets, making charging devices a hassle. The light switches weren't clearly marked, and the night light shone directly into your eyes.
Regarding service, the younger male front desk staff member was rude and unprofessional. When I checked in, I wasn't the only guest, and he was impatient and impolite with everyone, not using any basic pleasantries. He also didn't inform me about any of the hotel's facilities; I had to find the laundry room myself later. At one point, a hotel call came in to the female staff member opposite him. She wasn't sure about the situation, hung up, and then asked the male staff member, who directly mocked the guest who had called for inquiries – that was completely out of line. He also made a point of pretending to be busy with other things (even though guests could see his screen and he clearly wasn't busy) before grudgingly responding to guest requests.
Although the hotel's physical amenities aren't a major issue, I will not be staying here again due to the service attitude. Being next to a university, I'm sure they won't miss one guest.FromAU$ 113
Outstanding550 Reviews
Hongqiao Airport/National Exhibition and Convention Center Shanghai|15.59km from downtown
The Jiayu Hotel is right next to Jiaxuan, essentially two types of accommodations under one brand. Jiayu is more like an apartment-style hotel, which is a great option if you're traveling with children or elderly family members. You can choose a suite with a kitchen, complete with an induction cooktop, range hood, and dishwasher.FromAU$ 134
Very Good1655 Reviews
Everbright Convention and Exhibition Center Shanghai|12.35km from downtown
My overall experience with the business I conducted at this location was incredibly pleasant, and I absolutely have to commend Audrey, the front desk staff member. Her thorough and thoughtful service throughout left a deep impression on me, and I'm writing this review to express my gratitude.
As soon as I walked through the door, the front desk staff immediately stood up and greeted me warmly. Her tone was gentle and friendly, and she maintained a sincere smile, instantly easing any awkwardness I felt as a first-time visitor. I hadn't brought all the necessary documents with me and had many questions about the process, required materials, and fee standards. I was worried it would take a long time and that the staff might become impatient, but she was incredibly patient throughout, without a hint of perfunctoriness or laxity.
She clearly explained each step of the process item by item. For technical terms I didn't understand, she rephrased them in easy-to-understand language and explained them repeatedly. Thoughtfully, she took out a pen and paper, wrote down a detailed list of materials I needed to provide, and noted important considerations for each item, saving me from making multiple trips. While I was waiting for the procedures to be processed, she saw me standing and proactively guided me to the seating area, even offering me drinking water. Her attentiveness was evident in every detail.
When handling the business, she was skilled and efficient, verifying information carefully and meticulously. She double-checked every detail with me to prevent any errors. Midway through, I added several additional questions related to various different services, and she answered each one in detail, proactively informing me about related benefits and precautions, showing incredible thoughtfulness.
Throughout our entire interaction, her demeanor was appropriate, polite, and humble, and her speaking pace was just right. She showed empathy for the customer's difficulties and displayed no impatience or perfunctoriness. Her professionalism and service awareness were impeccable. It's precisely because of such a diligent, responsible, and thoughtful front desk employee that the overall image of the establishment has been greatly enhanced, making my entire process smooth and worry-free.
Such excellent service deserves high praise. If any friends or family have similar needs in the future, I will definitely recommend this establishment, and I hope the store will generously reward this dedicated staff member!FromAU$ 58
Excellent1941 Reviews
Hongqiao District Shanghai|8.21km from downtown
I've found a real gem in this modern tower. The hotel occupies floors 15 to 18, and the reception is a 10/10 – the staff are super friendly, they offer coffee, tea, and little pastries, and there's also a very comfortable coworking area.
The rooms are like a small studio with a kitchenette: microwave, washing machine, dryer, a full-size fridge, and plenty of closet space. The bed and pillows are extremely comfortable, and the shower… wow! The water pressure is amazing, absolutely wonderful. The door is floor-to-ceiling, so steam from long showers doesn't escape into the rest of the room. The sink area is a bit small, but it's fine for one or two people. Special mention: the magnifying mirror and the Japanese toilet – a real luxury that I really appreciated.
We were so comfortable that we ended up extending our stay by 3 more days.
The only downside: the metro is about 1 km away, maybe a bit more. But the value for money is so good that what you save on the hotel easily covers a taxi ride. From now on, this will be my go-to place in Shanghai.
Highly recommended. I'll definitely be back.FromAU$ 80
Apps for China Travel | Xiaohongshu
Xiaohongshu is China’s hybrid of Instagram × Pinterest × TripAdvisor, where 300M+ users (mostly Gen Z/young professionals) share authentic reviews, hidden gems, and visual guides. For travelers, it’s the best platform to find local-approved spots beyond tourist traps and scripted guides.
Advantages to Use Xiaohongshu
1️⃣ Find Authentic Local Experiences: Search the restaurant or hotel you are interested, and get the authentic review.
2️⃣ Get reliable Tips: When searching for related spots or travel guides, Xiaohongshu is usually the best choice because they are all written by locals based on their own personal experiences
3️⃣ Keep up with the popular trends: Search for relevant travel destinations and you will get things like popular shooting poses and methods, as well as the best shooting locations
Apps for China Travel | Baidu Translate
Baidu Translate is one of China's most robust translation tool, specializing in real-world travel scenarios with deep AI training on Mandarin idioms, local slang, and travel terminology. Unlike Google Translate, it excels at handling China-specific challenges like handwritten menus, dialect variations, and offline functionality.
✅ Advantages for China Travel
- No VPN Needed: Works seamlessly inside China (unlike blocked Google services).
- Handwriting Recognition: Draw unknown characters with your finger → get instant translations (e.g., on ancient temple plaques).
- Culture Context Tips: Translates idioms literally: "马马虎虎 (mǎmahūhū)" → "so-so" + explains origin.
- Free & Ad-Light: Zero cost, minimal pop-ups (unlike many global apps).
China Travel Tips
1. Visa & Documentation
- Apply Early: Secure your tourist visa (L-visa) well in advance. Requirements vary, so check the latest rules with the Chinese embassy.
- Register Locally: If staying in private accommodation (not hotels), register with local police within 24 hours (hotels handle this automatically).
2. Digital Essentials
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Install one before arriving. Popular apps (Google, WhatsApp, Instagram) are blocked. Recommendations: ExpressVPN, NordVPN.
- Mobile Payment: Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay (foreign cards now supported). Cash is declining, but carry some RMB for small vendors or rural areas.
- Apps to Download:
- Navigation: Baidu Maps (Google Maps doesn’t work well).
- Transport: Didi (ride-hailing), MetroMan (subway guides).
- Translation: Pleco or Google Translate (download offline Chinese packs).
3. Connectivity
- Local SIM Card: Buy at airports (China Mobile/Unicom) or major malls. Passport required. Prefer eSIMs like Airalo if compatible.
4. Shopping & Bargaining
- Markets: Haggle politely in markets (e.g., Silk Market). Start at 30-50% of the quoted price.
- Receipts: Keep for luxury purchases; required for customs declarations.
5. Best Times to Travel
- Spring (Apr-May) & Autumn (Sep-Oct): Mild weather, fewer crowds.
- Avoid: Golden Weeks (Oct 1-7; late Jan/Feb for CNY) – everything is crowded.
Questions about China App
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What is China's everything app?
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Which app is used in China instead of Instagram?
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Do I need WeChat in China?
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