7 Must-Have Apps for a Seamless Adventure in Modern China

Many people have asked me for tips on traveling in China, and I can confidently say that the China of today is a whole new world compared to a decade ago. The modern China is a cash-free society and incredibly tech-savvy. Even the grandma selling bottled water on the street only accepts WeChat Pay or Alipay. To make the most of your trip, here are some essential apps you should set up:

1. WeChat

WeChat is an all-in-one app that combines messaging, social media, and mobile payment features. Setting up WeChat Pay beforehand is crucial as it requires submitting your passport information before allowing you to link your international credit card. Here’s how to do it:

Go to the app store for your device (such as Google Play or the App Store) and download the WeChat app - look for the international version.
Open the app and tap the ‘Sign up’ button.
Provide your personal details when prompted and follow the on-screen steps to create your account.
Select ‘Me’ and then ‘Wallet.’
Tap ‘Bank card’ and then ‘Add new bank card.’
Enter your card information and follow the steps to verify the billing address, including entering an SMS verification code sent to your registered phone number.

Another important feature is the mini-program function in WeChat. Some stores allow you to order through the app. For example, during my latest trip to Yunnan, the KFC store's manual counter only allowed a la carte orders; all set meals had to be ordered through the WeChat app. There is a QR code at the store, and you will need to scan it with the WeChat app. Unfortunately, the ordering system on the app is entirely in Chinese, so using a second device with Google Lens is probably the only alternative if you are not conversant in Chinese.

2. Alipay

Like WeChat Pay, you will need to link Alipay with your credit card (Visa or MasterCard). Alipay offers additional useful functions, such as Didi, a ride-hailing app in China. The app itself also has a translation function. When using the Didi function, I was able to converse with the driver in the app with the translation function. The app auto-translates the driver's messages into English for me and vice versa if you type English into the app; it's translated into Chinese for the driver.

You can also use Alipay's transport card to take the bus and the metro within the city. Different cities have different transport cards, so remember to collect the ride card in the app. You will need to scan the QR code everytime you enter and exit the Metro/bus. The fare will be automatically charged to the linked credit card.

3. Gaode Maps and Baidu Maps

Both Gaode Maps and Baidu Maps are much better than Apple Maps. Google Maps doesn’t work in China. Although they are completely in Chinese, Gaode recognizes English and Hanyu Pinyin pretty well. Just follow the GPS route.

4. Translation Apps

I find Google Translate and Google Lens work well enough for basic communication. However, more accurate ones like Youdao Translation are also available.

5. VPN

To stay connected with the world, posting Instagram stories and texting your family and friends on WhatsApp and Telegram, you will need a VPN. Make sure to set this up before you arrive in China, as VPN websites are blocked once you’re in the country.

With these tips and tools, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate modern China. Happy travels!