List of Must-Have Apps in China for Traveling

Navigating daily life in China as a traveler or expat can be made significantly easier with the help of technology. With its vast landscapes, bustling cities, and rich cultural heritage, China offers endless opportunities for exploration. However, language barriers and different customs can pose challenges for newcomers. This comprehensive guide covers the top 20 must-have apps for anyone visiting or living in China. From communication and navigation to dining and shopping, these apps will enhance your experience and help you make the most of your time in this fascinating country.

Essential VPN Apps

1. ExpressVPN

Planning a trip to China and need a reliable VPN? Low-quality VPNs might contain malware or engage in scams, risking your device and personal info. ExpressVPN has been popular in China for over 10 years, offering strong security features and consistent performance despite occasional blocks.

• Features: Strong security with AES-256 encryption, 30-day money-back guarantee, high-speed servers.
• Why You Need It: Remains reliable and fast, crucial for bypassing the Great Firewall of China.

2. NordVPN

NordVPN offers robust security features such as Double VPN and Onion over VPN, ensuring your online activities remain private. Remember to email their customer service for special settings needed in China.

• Features: Double VPN, Onion over VPN, high-speed servers, excellent customer support.
• Why You Need It: Provides top-notch security and privacy protection while browsing in China.

3. PureVPN

PureVPN is known for its quick customer service and good streaming support. It allows you to watch popular Chinese streaming services like IQIYI and Youku outside of China.

• Features: High-speed servers, good streaming support, 24/7 customer service.
• Why You Need It: Excellent for accessing Chinese streaming services and reliable connectivity.

4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost ensures privacy protection with AES-256 encryption and a zero-log policy. It also features a user-friendly interface and a cute logo.

• Features: AES-256 encryption, zero-log policy, user-friendly interface.
• Why You Need It: Ideal for users who prioritize privacy and ease of use.

5. Surfshark

Surfshark offers user-friendly apps and strong security. It provides a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee. They also have a secret download site if you’re already in China.

• Features: Strong security, user-friendly apps, 7-day free trial, secret download site.
• Why You Need It: Great for first-time VPN users and those who need reliable service within China.

Payments and Banking Apps

6. Alipay

A widely-used mobile payment platform in China, indispensable for cashless transactions.

• Features: Mobile payments, bill payments, money transfers, QR code scanning.
• Why You Need It: Accepted almost everywhere in China, making it essential for daily transactions.

7. WeChat Pay

Integrated into WeChat, this mobile payment system is used for a variety of transactions.

• Features: Mobile payments, money transfers, bill payments, QR code scanning.
• Why You Need It: Ubiquitous in China and necessary for many cashless transactions.

Essential Communication Apps

8. WeChat

WeChat is the all-in-one app for communication, social networking, and payments. It’s essential for staying connected with friends, making payments, and even booking services.

• Features: Messaging, voice and video calls, social media, WeChat Pay, location sharing.
• Why You Need It: WeChat is ubiquitous in China, and nearly everyone uses it for both personal and professional communication.

Navigation and Maps Apps

9. Baidu Maps

Baidu Maps is the most comprehensive map app for navigating China, offering detailed maps and public transportation routes.

• Features: Real-time traffic updates, public transportation routes, walking directions, nearby attractions.
• Why You Need It: It’s more accurate than Google Maps in China and includes detailed public transit information.

10. DiDi

China’s version of Uber, DiDi offers various ride-hailing services including taxis, private cars, and carpooling.

• Features: Ride-hailing, fare estimates, ride-sharing options, English interface.
• Why You Need It: Essential for getting around cities conveniently and safely.

11. MetroMan

MetroMan is an indispensable app for navigating China’s extensive metro systems.

• Features: Detailed metro maps for major cities, route planning, fare calculation, offline access.
• Why You Need It: Simplifies using the metro systems in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.

Travel and Accommodation Apps

12. Ctrip

A leading travel service provider for booking flights, hotels, and train tickets.

• Features: Flight and hotel bookings, train tickets, travel guides, package tours.
• Why You Need It: Offers a one-stop shop for all travel needs within China.

13. Fliggy

Alibaba’s travel service app, useful for booking flights, hotels, and vacation packages.

• Features: Booking services for flights, hotels, and vacation packages, reviews, special discounts.
• Why You Need It: Another reliable option for travel arrangements, often with competitive prices.

Dining and Food Delivery Apps

14. Dianping

A Yelp-like app for finding the best restaurants, cafes, and entertainment spots in China. Hundreds of restaurant reviews, including features like showing highly rated restaurants near you.

• Features: Restaurant reviews, ratings, booking services, deals and discounts.
• Why You Need It: Essential for discovering local dining experiences and making reservations.

15. Keeta

Another popular app for food delivery, restaurant bookings, and local deals.

• Features: Food delivery, restaurant reviews, local services, discounts on activities.
• Why You Need It: Offers a wide range of dining options and local deals.

Shopping Apps

16. Taobao

China’s largest online shopping platform, offering everything from clothes to electronics.

• Features: Online shopping, product reviews, secure payment options, customer service.
• Why You Need It: You can find almost anything on Taobao at competitive prices.

17. JD.com

A major e-commerce platform known for its fast delivery and high-quality products.

• Features: Online shopping, product reviews, same-day delivery, electronic goods.
• Why You Need It: Reliable for purchasing electronics and household items.

Language and Translation Apps

18. Pleco

A powerful Chinese-English dictionary app, perfect for learning and translating Chinese.

• Features: Dictionary, flashcards, OCR (optical character recognition), handwriting recognition.
• Why You Need It: An essential tool for non-Chinese speakers to understand and learn the language.

19. Google Translate

Despite limitations in China, Google Translate is useful for quick translations.

• Features: Text translation, voice input, image translation, conversation mode.
• Why You Need It: Handy for quick translations and understanding signs or menus.

20. Baidu Translator

An effective translation app tailored for the Chinese language, offering various translation features.

• Features: Text translation, voice input, image translation, conversation mode.
• Why You Need It: Particularly useful for translating Chinese text and speech accurately.

Conclusion

These 20 must-have apps are indispensable for navigating life in China as a traveler or expat. From communication and navigation to dining and shopping, these tools will help you make the most of your experience in this vibrant and diverse country. Download them before your trip to ensure you’re well-prepared for all that China has to offer.

References

• China Map
• Top 20 Must-Have Apps for Travellers and Expats in China