Essential Apps & Services for Travelers in China (2026 Updated)
I. Navigation & Maps
Google Maps is often inaccurate in China even with a VPN. For the best navigation experience, use local apps.
| Category | Recommended App | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Maps | Baidu Maps | Most accurate, detailed metro/bus info. |
| Navigation | Gaode (Amap) | Real-time traffic and reliable walking directions. |
| Metros | MetroMan | Multilingual metro maps and route planning. |
II. Translation & Communication
| Category | Recommended App | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| All-in-One | Chat, pay, and use “mini-programs” for services. | |
| Translation | Google Translate | Download offline Chinese pack; works with VPN. |
| Dictionary | Pleco | Excellent offline dictionary and OCR for signs. |
| Live Translate | iTranslate | Voice-to-voice translation for quick conversations. |
III. Payment & Booking
| Category | Recommended App | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Payment | Alipay | Link international cards to pay anywhere. |
| Booking | Trip.com | Flights, hotels, and train tickets (English UI). |
| Trains | 12306 | Official railway booking app (English version). |
| Food Delivery | Meituan / Ele.me | Essential for food and grocery delivery. |
IV. Transportation & Lifestyle
- Ride-Hailing: Didi (Integrated into Alipay/WeChat or standalone app with English UI).
- Social Media: Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book) for the latest travel trends and reviews.
- Review Sites: Dianping for restaurant and attraction reviews (mostly Chinese).
Related Guides
More guides at chinaentryguide.com