Planning a trip to China can be overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. Many commonly used internet platforms may not be accessible there, which can cause some inconvenience while traveling. But don't worry—by using the right apps, your journey can still be smooth, comfortable, and a lot more enjoyable.
So, which apps can help make your trip to China easier?
WeChat is far more than just a messaging app like WhatsApp or LINE. In China, WeChat functions as an all-in-one platform for communication, payments, transportation, food delivery, QR code scanning, and essential information access. In short, WeChat is a "super app" that is indispensable for travelers in China.
For example, tourists can use WeChat Pay to make payments at stores, restaurants, or on public transport—without needing to exchange large amounts of cash. In fact, many businesses in China rely more on digital payments, often only accepting WeChat Pay or Alipay.
WeChat also allows you to stay connected with local tour guides, hotels, or travel companions. Its "Moments" feature lets you share experiences or check updates from local contacts. Many businesses and services in China also respond faster via WeChat than through email or phone calls.
Alipay
Alipay, launched in 2004, is one of China's leading digital payment apps. It enables users to make various transactions, including transfers, online shopping, in-store purchases, and paying bills.
Alipay serves as an e-wallet that stores debit or credit card details, allowing seamless mobile payments, similar to Apple Pay.
While the app was originally only in Mandarin, an international version of Alipay is now available, making it more accessible for English-speaking tourists. This version is designed specifically for users from outside China.
Baidu Maps
Baidu Maps is one of China’s most popular digital mapping services, widely used by locals and visitors alike. It offers highly detailed and accurate route information, public transportation options, traffic updates, and estimated travel times.
Its strength lies in its coverage of important locations—restaurants, stations, shopping malls, and tourist attractions—that may not appear on international maps.
Navigation features include walking, biking, buses, subways, and taxis, which is especially useful in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Chengdu.
Given that Google Maps and other Google services are restricted in China, Baidu Maps is an essential tool for navigating the country. Downloading it before you depart or right upon arrival is highly recommended.
Ctrip (Trip.com)
One major challenge for travelers in China is the limited access to international apps like Google Maps, Booking.com, or popular ride-hailing platforms.
A great alternative is Ctrip (also known as Trip.com)—the largest travel platform in China, widely used by both locals and international tourists.
With Ctrip, you can book flights, high-speed trains, hotels, attraction tickets, and even local transportation—all in one app.
The app offers an English interface, user reviews, maps of hotel and tourist sites, and flexible payment methods, including international credit cards and local options like Alipay and WeChat Pay.
JD.com
JD (Jingdong) is one of China’s largest e-commerce platforms, and it’s particularly useful for travelers. The app allows users to purchase essential travel items like local SIM cards, eSIMs, power banks, and more, all delivered directly to your hotel or accommodation.
JD supports local payment methods such as WeChat Pay and Alipay, which are standard in China. With a fast and efficient logistics network, JD is often more convenient than finding a physical store—especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.
Meituan
Meituan is another multifunctional app widely used in China, now also gaining popularity among tourists. It provides services such as food delivery, restaurant reservations, attraction ticket booking, and taxi-hailing.
One of its most helpful features is restaurant discovery, which allows you to search by location, user reviews, or categories like “halal” or “tourist-friendly.” Meituan often offers discounts and deals, which can help you save money during your trip.
Although the app is mostly in Mandarin, you can still use it with the help of translation tools like Baidu Translate.
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
As widely known, platforms like Google (including Gmail and Maps), WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and even Facebook are blocked by the “Great Firewall”, China’s internet censorship system.
To work around these restrictions, using a VPN is essential. A VPN allows you to access blocked apps and websites by redirecting your internet connection through servers in other countries.
This means you can still use Google Maps for navigation, check important emails, or update your social media while in China.
However, not all VPNs work in China—many free VPNs are either blocked or unreliable. It's recommended to download and subscribe to a trusted premium VPN before arriving in China.
You can read more about how VPNs work in this article.
MetroMan China
MetroMan is a subway map app covering over 30 cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and more. It works offline and provides detailed info like travel time estimates, ticket prices, and transfer stations.
Its user-friendly English interface makes it easy for tourists to navigate subway systems without reading Mandarin. When Google Maps or Apple Maps aren’t functioning, MetroMan is a lifesaver for getting around.
Global Komunika eSIM for China
To complete your travel toolkit, make sure to stay connected with Global Komunika’s China eSIM—a trusted international eSIM provider used by thousands of travelers.
With Global Komunika's eSIM for China, your journey will be smoother than ever. Enjoy fast, stable internet across the country without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards.
In just minutes, you'll be connected to a local network with easy and instant activation!
The eSIM offers:
- Unlimited data – Perfect for uploading travel photos and staying connected on social media.
- No roaming charges – Much more affordable than traditional roaming services.
- Instant activation – Just scan a QR code and get connected as soon as you land.
- Multi-country support – Great for travelers visiting multiple destinations.
Stay connected with your family, friends, and colleagues throughout your trip.
Order your Global Komunika eSIM now through this link and enjoy seamless internet access during your stay in China!
