What you actually need
| Need | App |
|---|---|
| Payments | Alipay (支付宝) |
| Messaging / mini programs | WeChat (微信) |
| Maps | Amap (高德地图) |
| Ride-hailing | DiDi (滴滴出行) |
| Trains | Railway 12306 (铁路12306) |
| Restaurant research | Dianping (大众点评) |
| Food delivery | Meituan (美团) |
Install before departure
Set up important apps while you still have familiar internet access, reliable SMS or email verification, your bank cards and time to solve account issues.
Priority 1
- Alipay (支付宝)
- WeChat (微信)
- Amap (高德地图)
Priority 2
- DiDi (滴滴出行)
- Railway 12306 (铁路12306)
Optional
- Dianping (大众点评)
- Meituan (美团)
Want the whole handbook offline?
See all chapters
All 80 chapters in one printable PDF, for no-signal days in China. Every chapter stays free here.
Last verified 2026-10-05. Procedures and limits change — check official sources before you travel.