China Travel Survival Kit
Your usual apps (Google Maps, Uber, Instagram) might not work in China. Download these local essentials before you board your flight.
Trip.com
The "Expedia" of China. Essential for booking High-Speed Train tickets (with English interface) and hotels that legally accept foreigners.
DiDi (Greater China)
The "Uber" of China. Taxis are hard to hail on the street. DiDi has an English interface, accepts international credit cards, and has auto-translated chat with drivers.
MetroMan
China's subway systems are massive. This app works offline, covers all major cities (Beijing, Shanghai, etc.), and tells you exactly how much the fare is.
Google Translate
Pro Tip: Google is blocked, BUT the app works if you use a VPN or roaming.
⚠️ Must Do: Download the "Chinese (Simplified)" offline package before you travel.
Airalo
Avoid the hassle of buying physical SIM cards. Airalo's "Chinacom" eSIM data packages usually bypass the firewall, allowing you to use Instagram and Gmail freely.
Level Up: Live Like a Local
Want to find the best local food or hidden photo spots? These apps are what the locals actually use.
Note: Some may have Chinese-only interfaces, but are easy to navigate with screenshots.
Dianping
The "Yelp" of China. Don't trust TripAdvisor in China (it's outdated). Use this to find restaurants. Look for the orange stars (ratings) and food photos to order by pointing.
Xiaohongshu (RED)
The "Instagram/Pinterest" of China. The best place to find trendy cafes, hidden photo spots, and real-time travel tips. Visual-heavy, so language is less of a barrier.
Amap (Gaode Maps)
Apple Maps is okay, but Amap is much more accurate for smaller streets and pedestrian paths. Essential if you plan on renting a bike or walking through Hutongs.