What are the must-have apps for traveling in China?

The essential apps for China are WeChat, Alipay, Didi, Amap (Gaode Maps), Pleco.

How many travel apps does China have?

We've curated 9 apps across 7 categories for traveling in China, including 5 essential apps.

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China

Q: What is the best super apps app in China?

WeChat is the top-rated super apps app in China. China's all-in-one super app for messaging, payments, ride booking, food ordering, and mini-programs for virtually every local service.

Master the apps, master China

Curated by travelers, verified by locals

Heads up

China runs on a parallel digital ecosystem . Google, WhatsApp, and most Western apps are blocked. Download everything before you land, set up WeChat Pay or Alipay with your foreign card, and consider a VPN for accessing apps from home.

9 apps5 essentialEast Asia

Last updated: March 2026

WeChat

Essential

China's all-in-one super app for messaging, payments, ride booking, food ordering, and mini-programs for virtually every local service.

Pro tip: Small payments under ¥200 require no ID verification . set up WeChat Pay at the airport or hotel before heading out.

View Super Apps guide →

Alipay

Essential

China's second dominant mobile payment platform, accepted everywhere from street vendors to high-end restaurants. More tourist-friendly setup than WeChat Pay.

Pro tip: Use Alipay's Transport button for metro and bus rides across most major cities . no separate transit card needed.

View Payments guide →

Didi

Essential

China's dominant ride-hailing app operating in hundreds of cities. English interface available, pays through WeChat Pay or Alipay.

Pro tip: Type your destination in English . Didi understands major landmarks and hotel names.

View Ride Hailing guide →

View Navigation guide →

View Food Delivery guide →

View Language guide →

View Transit guide →

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Need data to use these apps? Get an eSIM before you go.