Whether you're a student or an expat, these apps are essential to add to your smartphone if you want to navigate life in China.
By VICKI CHALERMLAPVORABOON
Global Business Journalism reporter
For anyone planning on their adventure to China let me offer you a piece of advice: preparation is everything. This is precisely why I'm here — to ensure your transition to life in China is as smooth as butter.
In a world where everything is digital, China has (nearly fully) embraced the “cashless” with open arms. To navigate this tech-savvy society, you'll need the right apps in your hands. Here are the must-have essential apps that will transform your life so you can live like a local in no time.
1. Chinese Translation Apps (an absolute life-saver): Pleco & Papago
I always trusted Google Translate—until I found myself in a new country, struggling with a language I couldn't grasp. Thankfully, connecting with fellow international students and alumni introduced me to two translation apps that immensely helped when traveling around.
Pleco has had a reputation for decades or what they call as the seasoned veteran of translation apps. You can scribble Chinese characters and it will come up with suggestions of that character. It is also frequently updated, so no worries about stumbling across ancient characters. The downside about Pleco is it is perfect to find translations for specific words but not so much with phrases or sentences.
That’s where Papago comes in. This app is a multitasking engine. The application goes beyond text translations as it offers additional functions such as cameras. This is perfect for time if you ever wonder what the recipes include but it's in Chinese. At the same time, if you ever get lost in the maze of a Beijing accent, the app has voice-to-text and translations.
The best part? Both of these applications are free.
2. One application that rules all: WeChat (微信)
WeChat is the powerhouse of all apps. It serves primarily as an exclusive communication platform, much like WhatsApp, Line, or Facebook Messenger. But WeChat is so much more than just a place to send stickers, calls, and texts. It’s your gateway to quite a lifestyle, letting you make payments, hail cabs, buy event tickets, and so much more—all from one app.
While other international apps might work with a VPN, their reliability is hit-or-miss, with frequent crashes. With millions of users already on WeChat, it makes perfect sense to adopt it as your go-to communication tool.
I mentioned “exclusive” earlier because WeChat requires another user to verify your account upon registration. While you can register outside of China, you’ll need a Chinese bank account to activate WeChat Pay. Once you’ve set that up, life in China becomes super easy.
3. Local Wallet for International Cards: Alipay (支付宝）
No WeChat, no worries. Alipay, the handy payment app from Alibaba, allows you to link your international cards, like Visa and Mastercard. So before going to Chinese banks or waiting in a queue for weeks, Alipay will help you get around China within the first few weeks.
It is English friendly and registration is simple — just use your passport (for internationals) or Chinese ID card for nationals. While approval takes one to two days, the convenience is absolutely worth it.
4. Best VPN (my opinion): LadderVPN
I’m a YouTube and Instagram kind of gal — I can't live without these apps. So, having a reliable VPN is an absolute must for me. After trying at least five free VPN applications that all crashed as soon as I turned them on, my friend Christina Yang from the States (shoutout to her) introduced me to LadderVPN.
While LadderVPN isn’t free, it rarely crashes or disconnects, and the connection stays steady for months. For someone who lives for scrolling and streaming, the reliability makes the payment worthwhile.
The best part? This VPN doesn’t tangle with your phone’s network or laptop settings. Just open the app to connect — no more fiddling with switches or settings.
5. Shopaholic Haven: Taobao (淘宝) and Pinduoduo (拼多多)
They always say, "Keep your friends close and your enemies closer," but when it comes to online shopping, keeping it too close might do more damage than good. The convenience and variety available here are simply irresistible, with prices that make impulse buying a dangerous game.
Shopping on international websites is possible, but beware of the hidden taxes and fees — I’ve been there and suffered the consequences. Honestly, why bother with international sites when you can find absolutely anything on these local platforms, often for a lot less money? Whether it’s clothes, frog-shaped mugs, or postcards, it’s all just a click away.
6. Find Your Next Best Place to Eat: Dazhong Dianping (大众点评）
Think of this app as China's answer to Yelp, your go-to guide for the hottest restaurant reviews and listings. Whether you're searching for cafes, venues, street eats, or cinemas, this app has you covered when it comes to exploring new spots or finding the perfect place to unwind.
My favorite part? It offers inclusive options to suit every need, from price range and dietary preferences to detailed insights like peak hours and more. This kind of information is a game-changer for planning your outings. Plus, you can even purchase advance tickets or book seats ahead of time, ensuring your plans go off without a hitch.
7. Navigate Around China: Gaode Map (高德地图)
Gaode Maps, also known as AMap, is the holy grail of navigation apps. It’s the most accurate and precise map application I’ve ever used. The app has every street and building meticulously detailed, you’ll always find your way out of the Hutong maze.
The app provides spot-on time estimates for your journey and includes up-to-date traffic news, bus stops, and more. My favorite feature? It covers all major modes of transportation — whether you're driving, hopping on a bus or train, cycling, walking, or even hailing a ride.
8. Ride-Hailing Companion: DiDi (嘀嘀)
DiDi is the ultimate ride-hailing app in China. Without it, you'd be spending ages trying to flag down a ride from the sidewalk. With options for both taxis and private cars, it's no wonder DiDi is a favorite among mainland residents.
Of course, DiDi, like any ride-hailing service, has its quirks. You might encounter long queues or drivers who vanish if you don’t reach out within five minutes of their arrival. Yet, despite these occasional frustrations, trying to hail a cab by waving your arm is practically impossible without this app.