When traveling to China, having the right apps on your phone can make your trip much smoother. From transportation to communication, here’s a list of essential apps to download for a hassle-free experience.
Ctrip (携程) - Trip.com
Ctrip is one of China’s leading online travel service companies, providing a wide range of travel-related services to over 90 million members. These include hotel reservations, flight bookings, vacation packages, business travel management, and more.
What Can You Use It For?
Transportation Ticket Search & Booking: Find and book domestic and international flights, train tickets, and city bus tickets.
Car Rentals: Rent cars in various cities around the world.
Accommodation Comparison & Reservations: Access over 600,000 hotels, resorts, and apartments both in China and internationally.
Discounts & Package Deals: Enjoy special offers for sightseeing attractions and curated travel packages.
Visa Application Services: Get help with visa applications, including necessary documentation and support for select countries.
Travel Insurance: Purchase coverage for trip cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.
Why Do You Need It?
Ctrip makes it easy to plan your entire trip with a wide range of services in one app, including transportation, accommodation, and even special offers. It’s ideal for booking last-minute deals or managing your travel itinerary while in China.
Railway 12306 (铁路12306)
12306 is the official online booking platform for China’s railway system, providing ticket sales and related services for all domestic trains.
What Can You Use It For?
Real-Time Info: Check train status, schedules, and platform details.
Ticket Booking & Management: Search and book tickets for all domestic trains, including high-speed and sleeper trains. You can cancel or modify tickets under specific terms.
E-Tickets: Use electronic tickets or QR codes for paperless travel. Group Booking: Book multiple tickets for group travel.
Why Do You Need It?
This app is the only official ticketing platform for China’s rail network, essential for purchasing train tickets and checking schedules. It’s especially useful for tourists since it provides an English interface for easier navigation.
Reminder: For first-time users, you must verify your passport at a ticket window before booking. Once verified, you can use your passport and e-ticket to board the train.
Didi (滴滴出行)
Didi is China’s most popular ride-hailing app, providing a wide range of transportation services for over 450 million users.
What Can You Use It For?
Ride-Hailing: Book taxis, private cars, or ride-sharing (from economy to luxury options).
Car Rentals: Rent cars with or without a driver.
Bike/Scooter Rentals: Rent bikes or electric scooters for short trips.
Long-Distance Travel: Book intercity rides.
Delivery Services: Order food or send packages within the city.
Ride Scheduling: Pre-schedule rides for future trips.
Why Do You Need It?
Didi provides flexible, affordable, and convenient transportation options, including taxi and car services, as well as bike rentals, making it indispensable for getting around in China.
Meituan (美团)
Meituan is a major e-commerce platform in China, offering services related to dining, travel, housekeeping, and more.
What Can You Use It For?
Food Delivery: Order food from local restaurants for delivery.
Restaurant Reviews & Reservations: Find restaurant ratings, reviews, and make reservations.
Hotel Booking: Book hotels for business or leisure travel.
Transportation: Rent bikes, book cars, or use ride-hailing services.
Grocery Delivery: Shop for groceries and have them delivered quickly.
Ticket Booking: Book tickets for movies, events, and attractions.
Home Services: Access services like cleaning, repairs, and beauty treatments.
Why Do You Need It?
Meituan is a one-stop-shop for many daily needs. Whether you need food, transportation, or even household services, it simplifies your life in China by combining everything into one app.
Amap (高德地图) & Baidu Map (百度地图)
Amap and Baidu Map are two of China’s leading navigation apps, providing comprehensive mapping, real-time traffic, and location-based services.
What Can You Use Them For?
Navigation: Get turn-by-turn driving, walking, or cycling directions.
Public Transport: Find routes and schedules for buses, subways, and trains.
Route Planning: Plan driving or public transport routes with real-time traffic updates.
Location Search: Find places like restaurants, stores, hospitals, tourist attractions, and more.
Traffic Information: Get updates on traffic conditions, accidents, and road closures.
Discounts & Offers: Discover deals and promotions from local businesses.
Why Do You Need Them?
These apps are crucial for navigating both cities and rural areas in China. They provide accurate, up-to-date maps, real-time traffic information, and public transport details, helping you get around smoothly.
WeChat (微信)
WeChat is China’s most widely used app, encompassing messaging, social media, payments, and much more.
What Can You Use It For?
Messaging: Send text messages, voice messages, images, and stickers.
Voice & Video Calls: Make free voice and video calls worldwide.
Group Chats: Create groups for friends, family, or colleagues.
WeChat Pay: Pay for goods and services, transfer money, and shop online.
Mini-Programs: Access small apps for food ordering, booking services, or playing games within WeChat.
Social Media: Share photos, videos, and updates with friends.
Location Sharing: Share your real-time location for safety or to meet others.
News & Media: Follow news outlets, influencers, and official accounts.
Why Do You Need It?
WeChat is an essential tool in China for everything from staying connected with friends to managing your finances. With its comprehensive features, it’s crucial for communication, shopping, and even ordering services.
Alipay (支付宝)
Alipay is one of the most popular payment platforms in China, offering a range of financial services, including mobile payments and money transfers.
What Can You Use It For?
Mobile Payments: Pay for goods and services in stores or online.
Money Transfers: Send money to friends or family instantly.
Bill Payments: Pay utility bills, taxes, and more.
Financial Services: Use investment tools and manage wealth.
Ticket Bookings: Book train, flight, or event tickets.
Why Do You Need It?
Alipay is a major part of daily life in China. Whether you're shopping, dining, or paying bills, Alipay is the preferred method of payment. It’s crucial for participating in China’s cashless society.
Virtual Private Network (VPN)
While some websites and apps are restricted in China, using a VPN can help you bypass censorship and access blocked content.
What Can You Use It For?
Access Restricted Websites: Browse international websites and services like Google, YouTube, or Facebook.
Online Privacy: Protect your data and internet traffic while using public networks.
Why Do You Need It?
A VPN is essential for accessing blocked websites, ensuring privacy, and avoiding surveillance while online in China. Be sure to download and set up a VPN before arriving, as some services are difficult to access once in the country.
These apps will make navigating China easier and ensure you have a smoother, more enjoyable experience. Be sure to download them before your trip!
