Which apps do I need for China?

Answer five questions and get your personal list of apps to install before you fly, with set-up guides.

Your phone

Will you take trains between cities?

Will you take taxis?

Will you visit big museums (Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu)?

Do you want to message people in China?

Will you book hotels or tickets in China?

Install before you fly

Alipay 支付宝
Pays for almost everything, plus metro codes and taxis. Everyone needs it.
Set-up guide Download
WeChat 微信
Several top museums only take bookings in WeChat, and many restaurants order by WeChat QR code.
Set-up guide Download
DiDi 滴滴出行
Book taxis in English with your own number and card.
Set-up guide Download
Railway 12306 铁路12306
The official train app, with no booking fee. Verify your passport a day ahead.
Set-up guide Download

Amap 高德地图
The most accurate map in China for walking, metro and buses.
Set-up guide Download
Trip.com 携程国际版
An English backup for trains if 12306 gives you trouble, plus hotels and tickets.
Set-up guide Download