Best International & Chinese Apps for a Smooth Trip in China

In this guide, we’ll cover the essential apps you’ll need to navigate China, from translation tools to payment platforms, navigation apps, and even the must have app for booking train tickets. We’ll also explain why travel apps have become go-to choices for transportation and tours.
Last updated: 26.09.2025

Planning a trip to China can be one of the most exciting adventures you’ll ever take. From the buzzing streets of Shanghai to the serene beauty of Guilin, visiting China offers a unique mix of history, modernity, and culture. But there’s a catch—many of the everyday apps you rely on back home won’t work the same way in mainland China because of the Great Firewall. This is why downloading the right apps for China travel before your journey is essential to make sure you can communicate, navigate, and pay with ease.

Why You Need Apps for China

When visiting China, you’ll quickly notice that mobile apps power almost every aspect of daily life. Locals pay with a personal QR code, order from street vendors, or get around big cities using one app. If you’re used to using Google Maps, Google Translate, or Apple Maps, you’ll need alternatives, since many popular apps are restricted or less effective in mainland China.

Having the right China travel apps not only makes your China travel smoother but also helps you discovering hidden gems that aren’t easily found without a travel app designed for the region. Whether it’s paying without a bank card, ordering food, or using the metro system, the right tools can make your journey stress-free.

Best Train Routes to Explore in China

China’s rail network is one of the most modern in the world, making your travel a perfect way to explore the country’s diversity

Beijing – Shanghai

This high-speed route is among the busiest in China, zipping across 1,300 km in less than five hours—ideal for travelers linking the Great Wall with Shanghai’s futuristic skyline.
Book now
Beijing – Xi’an

Travel this route to witness the legendary Terracotta Warriors and walk along Xi’an’s historic city walls.
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Shanghai – Hangzhou

In just an hour, you can reach the tranquil West Lake and wander through lush tea plantations.
Book now

Stay Connected with a VPN

One of the first essential apps to download is a vpn service. Without a reliable VPN like Express VPN, you won’t be able to access familiar services such as Google Maps, Gmail, or your favorite apps. Since the Great Firewall blocks many Western sites, a virtual private network is a must have.
A VPN ensures you can stay connected with loved ones and access an english language interface when needed. Make sure you install it before your China trip, as downloading from the Google Play or Play Store might be restricted once you land.

Navigation Apps for China Travel

Getting around major cities in China is straightforward with the right navigation app. While Google Maps works to some extent with a vpn service, most locals rely on Baidu Maps—China’s version of Google.

Baidu Maps: This is one of the essential China travel apps. It provides detailed directions for walking, driving, and public transport, though the downside is that the english interface is limited.

Apple Maps: A good alternative for iOS users, though not as detailed as Baidu Maps.
Google Maps: Still useful for planning routes outside China, and with a vpn service, it can help during your China travel.

Using a navigation app tailored for China ensures you won’t get lost, even in sprawling metro systems.

Over 90% of daily transactions in China are completed using mobile apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay, making cash nearly obsolete in major cities.

Payment Apps

Carrying cash is rare in major cities. Most locals use China apps such as Alipay app or WeChat Pay, both of which are widely accepted. As a traveler, you can link your bank card directly and get access to similar payment functions as locals.

WeChat Pay: A must have app for visiting China, used for everything from ordering food to shopping.
Alipay App: Offers an english interface and works seamlessly for attraction tickets, taxis, and even street vendors.

These apps for China generate a QR code for payment, eliminating the need for a local sim card or constant use of your bank card.

Translation Apps

One of the biggest challenges when visiting China is navigating language barriers. Thankfully, a good translation app can act as your digital travel companion.

Google Translate: A must have for quick translations, including the ability to translate text instantly using Google Lens.
WeChat Translate: Built into the messaging platform, this is handy when chatting with locals.
Other translation tools: Several China travel apps provide integrated translation functions.
Having a translation app means you can easily order in local restaurants, communicate with street vendors, and handle everyday interactions.

Train Tickets & Transportation Apps

No China trip is complete without experiencing the Chinese high speed rail. To make the process smooth, you’ll need the right apps for China travel that let you book train tickets with ease.

Rail.Ninja App: The go to app for train tickets. It simplifies the booking process, shows real-time availability, and saves you from paying a high booking fee. Whether you want to explore major cities or countryside, this is a must have for China travel.
Didi: The Chinese version of Uber, perfect for getting around when public transport isn’t convenient.
Metro apps: Each city may have a separate app for its metro system, but Baidu Maps already covers routes.

With Rail.Ninja, it’s never been easier to book train tickets and plan your journey across China’s vast and efficient rail system.

Food Delivery Apps

Hungry after a long day of exploring? Food delivery is one of the biggest perks of modern China travel. Using apps for China travel like Meituan or Ele.me, you can try local cuisines without leaving your hotel.

Ordering food is easy—simply scan a qr code, choose your dish, and pay with WeChat Pay or Alipay app.
These China travel apps often have a mini app version inside WeChat, making them even more convenient.

For those who want to explore China through its cuisine, food delivery apps are the best way to experience everything from fine dining to street vendors.

Tours and Experiences

Beyond transportation, you’ll want to explore China’s culture, history, and hidden gems. That’s where the Firebird Tours App shines.

Firebird Tours App: A valuable tool for booking attraction tickets and guided tours. This great tool gives you access to curated experiences and helps you explore China with local experts.
It’s a must have for visiting China if you want to uncover hidden gems that aren’t in every guidebook.

Combined with RN for transport, FT becomes your journey smoother solution for China travel.

Final Tips for Visiting China with Apps

Always get a local sim or mobile data plan for constant access.
Keep a backup vpn service to ensure you can access your favorite apps.
Use a mini app inside WeChat for quick services like food orders or booking rides.
Remember, the best apps are the ones that combine convenience, reliability, and an english interface when needed.

Traveling through this vast country can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Respect Chinese authorities, stay informed, and plan ahead for international flights, foreign currency exchange, and language barriers. For a hassle-free trip, consider booking guided China tours to make the most of your journey.