Top 10 Must-Have Apps for Traveling in China

China is increasingly attracting travelers worldwide with its fascinating blend of traditional culture and impressive modernity. However, if this is your first visit, there will undoubtedly be moments of confusion when things don't work as you're used to. Want to use Google Maps? You might not be able to. Trying to upload photos to Facebook? That could be blocked too. Even paying with cash can sometimes be tricky!

So how can you ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip? The secret lies in the super useful travel apps in China. From booking rides, finding directions, cashless payments, to connecting with social networks, these apps will help you enjoy your journey without any hassle. Join Mytour as we explore the must-have apps to make your trip to China easier, more fun, and absolutely perfect!

WeChat is the top app that any traveler to China must have. It’s not just a messaging tool; it’s an essential payment app used daily by locals. From shopping and dining to booking services like taxis or hotels, you can simply scan a QR code on WeChat to make payments effortlessly without needing cash.

The great thing about WeChat is that it allows you to link international credit cards like Visa or Mastercard, making payments for foreign travelers more convenient than ever. Before you head to China, be sure to install WeChat, create an account, and link your bank card to be ready for any situation.

With its messaging, free calls, and integrated cashless payment features, WeChat is certainly a “powerful ally” to help you overcome language and cultural barriers throughout your trip.

If WeChat is a versatile app, then Alipay specializes in cashless payments, making it easy for foreign travelers to adapt to life in China. As one of the two largest electronic payment platforms here, Alipay is widely accepted, from luxury shopping malls to street food stalls.

A major advantage of Alipay is that you can link international credit cards like Visa or Mastercard to complete transactions without carrying cash or exchanging it for yuan. The payment process is incredibly simple: just scan the store’s QR code or let the staff scan the payment code from your phone.

What's more, Alipay also integrates many useful services such as booking sightseeing tickets, buying subway passes, and even paying hotel bills. #teamMytour thinks this is pretty convenient, right?

When traveling to China, hailing a taxi off the street can be a challenge due to language barriers and differences in services. This is when Didi Chuxing, China’s version of "Uber", becomes a great solution for tourists.

Didi allows you to book a variety of vehicles, from regular taxis to private cars and luxury services, catering to every need and budget. The app has a user-friendly interface and an English version for easy use. It even integrates an instant message translation feature, making it easier to communicate with drivers even if you don’t speak Chinese.

For the smoothest experience, you can make payments directly on Didi through WeChat Pay or Alipay, making your travels quick and cashless. Additionally, if you face difficulties registering an account, you can also book rides via WeChat or Alipay as an alternative option.

In China, Google Maps and Google services are restricted, which can make finding directions difficult for travelers. But don’t worry, Baidu Maps is the perfect solution to help you explore the country’s nooks and crannies with ease and precision.

Baidu Maps provides detailed directions for both public and private transportation. You can find routes for buses, subways, or taxis, and view real-time traffic conditions to avoid congested routes. The app also allows you to save favorite locations and plan your journey efficiently.

Although Baidu Maps' interface is primarily in Chinese, you can still use the app easily by learning a few key phrases or using the automatic translation feature on your phone. Additionally, if you don’t know the exact address, simply enter the place's name or drag the map to find your desired location. With Baidu Maps, exploring major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou becomes much more convenient and accessible.

If you’re in China and suddenly feel hungry but aren’t sure how to order, Meituan is the ultimate helper you need. It’s the largest food delivery platform in China, where you can order everything from local delicacies to international restaurant chains.

Meituan’s interface is highly intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy to search for your favorite foods. Simply select a restaurant, check reviews from other users, and place your order. You can rest assured that your food will be delivered right to your door. The app also shows estimated delivery times and enables quick payments via WeChat Pay or Alipay. In addition to food delivery, Meituan offers a variety of other services, such as movie tickets, spas, and even reservations at famous restaurants.

Taking the subway is one of the most cost-effective and convenient ways to explore major cities in China. To avoid confusion with the maze of routes and numerous stations, MetroMan, an incredibly smart and useful subway guide app, is a must-have.

MetroMan allows you to check detailed routes from your starting point to your destination, including travel times and transfer details. Simply enter your destination, and the app will suggest the best routes to help you save time and avoid mistakes.

With MetroMan, you can also preview subway maps of different cities, making it easier to plan your trips. The app supports major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou, making it an essential travel companion.

In China, many international websites and services like Google, Facebook, Instagram, and Gmail are blocked, making it difficult to stay connected with friends, family, or work. ExpressVPN is the perfect solution to bypass these restrictions safely and easily.

ExpressVPN is one of the most reliable VPN apps, offering fast speeds and high-level security. By connecting to an international server, you can access your favorite websites as if you were back home. This app works smoothly on both mobile devices and computers, ensuring a worry-free internet connection throughout your trip. Be sure to install ExpressVPN before arriving in China to avoid any interruptions.

Language can be a major barrier when traveling in China, especially when you're unable to understand signs, menus, or street directions. Waygo is the app that helps you break through this barrier quickly and effectively.

Waygo allows you to instantly translate Chinese text through your phone's camera, all without needing an internet connection. Simply point your phone at the text, and Waygo will instantly show the English translation. This is particularly useful when ordering food, asking for directions, or understanding basic information around you.

Waygo works smoothly and is incredibly user-friendly, boosting your confidence throughout your journey. Don't miss out on this fantastic app while exploring the 'land of a billion people'!

When traveling in China, planning ahead and booking services like tickets, tours, or transportation in advance will make your trip much smoother. With Mytour, you can find hundreds of exciting and convenient activities, from famous destinations like Shanghai Disneyland to unique local tours.

Mytour helps you save time with its e-ticket feature—digital tickets that can be used directly on your phone without the need to print them. With just a few simple steps, you can easily book entry tickets, airport transfers, or day trips. The app also provides detailed information about each activity, making it easier for you to choose and plan according to your preferences.

Mytour is an indispensable companion, offering convenience and time savings for every journey. Whether you're exploring major cities or experiencing local culture, Mytour always has options that suit your needs.

Dianping is the essential app when you're looking for top dining and entertainment spots in China. Considered the “Yelp” of the country, Dianping provides a vast collection of user reviews on restaurants, cafes, shopping malls, and other services.

Dianping's interface makes it easy to search for nearby places, view menus, prices, and even real photos of dishes. You can also check reviews from locals to find quality restaurants that match your taste. Beyond dining, Dianping also helps you make reservations, hunt for discounts, and discover other prominent entertainment activities in the area.

With the above Chinese travel apps, all your needs—from payments and transportation to dining and entertainment—will be resolved quickly and conveniently. Be sure to download these apps before you depart for a smooth and complete journey. China is waiting for you to explore. Mytour wishes you a memorable adventure filled with fantastic experiences!

Don't forget to check out the Mytour Blog for more exciting information and destinations in Beijing, including: 11 Places to Visit in China During the 2025 Lunar New Year, Badaling, Review of the Most Beautiful Section of the Great Wall, Summer Travel Tips for Independent Travelers in China, How Much Does It Cost to Travel in Beijing?, Latest Guide to Buying a Chinese SIM for Travelers, and more...

Download the essential apps for traveling in China and get ready for your journey today!