China has taken the world by storm since it reopened its borders after Covid-19. Instead of travelling to Japan or Korea, many Singaporeans and Malaysians now prefer to visit China for its affordability and vast natural landscapes. Whether you're there for shopping, food, history, or simply to enjoy the scenic views, China has it all. To find out which parts of China are the best to visit, check out our previous article, Plan Your Ultimate China Trip - Explore Top Cities, Culture & Food!
In this article, we will teach you how to become an expert traveller in China, ensuring you're up-to-date with their technology and making the most of their platforms for your convenience. Read on to discover the must-download apps for China, covering a range of essential functions!
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Payment
It’s almost true that you no longer need to carry cash when travelling to China, as most people use QR code payments like WeChat or AliPay for transactions.
AliPay 支付宝
One of the most popular methods of transaction in China is through this app, which has everything you need for your travels! Their payment method consists of two functions: either scanning the merchant's QR code or having the merchant scan your QR code. Furthermore, this app allows you to book DiDi, China’s leading ride-hailing service, making it easy to get a ride and pay directly through AliPay. The app also offers useful features like real-time exchange rates, translation services, train/airline tickets, coupon deals, and more. With everything available in English and a user-friendly interface, it’s no wonder this is the perfect app for foreigners. It’s a must-download for anyone visiting China!
WeChat 微信
Apart from payments, WeChat originally started as a communication app for Chinese users to chat with one another. Now, it has evolved into a platform where brands can share promotions through channels. Additionally, some brands offer discounts or free gifts when you join their channels. If you've purchased something and want your items delivered to your hotel, merchants often communicate with you via WeChat for delivery updates as well.
This app is also essential for dining in China, as most restaurants require you to scan their QR code to place an order. Often, these codes can't be scanned with a typical iPhone QR code scanner and can only be scanned through WeChat. As one of China’s top payment apps, WeChat is a must-download when you're in China.
ChangiPay
Powered by AliPay, Changi Pay is an e-wallet that allows you to top up money into the app and use it for transactions in China. The benefit of this app is that you won’t be charged the 3% fee on spending over RMB 200, unlike with AliPay. Additionally, the balance in your ChangiPay wallet can be used in nearby countries like Malaysia!
eSIM
As many of you know, one of the downsides of travelling to China is that many international apps, like TikTok, Instagram, and WhatsApp, are blocked and require a VPN to access. Hotel Wi-Fi often doesn’t have VPN hence it doesn't allow you to connect to these apps either. Therefore, an eSIM with an in-built VPN is essential for most tourists!
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Navigation
As you may have heard, even the mighty Google Maps doesn't work well in China. It’s not as reliable as local apps. Therefore, these two apps are essential when visiting China!
Amap
Available in both English and Chinese, Amap provides information directly from store merchants, especially if you're looking for smaller establishments. The location points are accurate, and the English interface is specific and helpful. This app is perfect for foreigners who are limited in their Mandarin.
Baidu Maps
Baidu Maps is one of the most popular choices, providing accurate location data and store information, such as operating hours and reviews. Additionally, the Baidu app includes image recommendations of the city you're in, much like having an in-built version of Rednote (or 小红) It's perfect for days when you have no plans and simply want to explore nearby hidden gems.
Food Delivery
You may have seen videos of Chinese people never leaving their homes, as most things can be easily delivered, even in the wee hours of the night. If you're staying in a hotel with robot delivery service, you can literally have in-room meals every day without ever stepping out to order takeout.
Meituan 美团
One of the most popular delivery apps in China, Meituan goes beyond just food delivery. It’s an all-in-one app that lets you book a ride, order food, groceries, medication, and even reserve a spot at a nearby beauty salon. If you need something delivered urgently, you can trust Meituan to get it to you within 30 minutes. The service is impeccable, and delivery costs are low. The only downside is that you’ll need a local number to place an order.
Eleme 饿了么
On the other hand, Eleme is an app similar to Meituan but offers slightly fewer food options. However, it's still great for tourists looking to satisfy a late-night craving. This app doesn't require a local number, and its delivery speed is just as fast. The only downside to both apps is that they are in Mandarin and have not yet included an English translation.
Shopping
Taobao 淘宝
The main reason many people love going to China is to shop on Taobao for great deals! Shipping within China is affordable, and Taobao offers a wide variety of designs at low prices. If you're visiting China for its scenic views but still want to pick up a few clothing items or accessories, be sure to check out Taobao and have them shipped to your hotel within 2 to 5 days. In fact, some hotels even have a return counter where you can send back your Taobao orders if you're not satisfied with your purchase – all with just a few clicks!
Pin Duo Duo 拼多多
You’ve heard of e-commerce and social media, but Pinduoduo takes it to the next level with a concept called social commerce. By leveraging group buys, Pinduoduo encourages users to invite friends and make purchases together. Similar to Taobao, you can find goods at even more affordable prices, especially with group purchases. Pinduoduo has been gaining popularity among Chinese citizens, and it's time for us to try out this app too!
Xian Yu 闲鱼
This app is similar to our local version of Carousell. It’s a platform for consumers to buy and sell second-hand goods. Since blind boxes are very popular in China, many people collect the figurines, and if they unbox one they don’t want, they can sell it on Xian Yu. This app is perfect if you're looking for a specific figurine and want to avoid the risk of getting one you already have.
China is so advance in their technology now that it is almost not needed to leave your room to get the items you desire. However, there are still more to this country, and these are the needful apps you should have ready in your mobile phones before you visit China, as it will be tough to download them once you’re there. So, wait no longer and book your next flight out with merewards today!
China's technology has advanced so much that you almost never need to leave your room to get the items you want. However, there’s much more to explore in this country, and these are the essential apps you should have on your phone before visiting as it will be difficult to download them once you're there. So don’t wait any longer—book your next flight with merewards today!