CHINA TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Six apps to help you pay, get around and discover local favorites in China.
Find what you need for payments, transport and exploring the city.
Pay & Connect
Pay for meals and shopping, and scan transport QR codes to ride buses and metros in supported cities.
Register and link an eligible bank card. In Transport, select your city and activate the bus or metro code you need.
Keep in touch with local contacts and use mini programs.
Set up your account before departure so you have time for any verification steps.
Maps & Transport
Plan routes, book a ride and find places to stay.
Hotel booking options vary by version and language. The international interface may differ from the Chinese version.
Book train tickets directly with China Railway.
If you’re traveling by train, register and complete identity checks before booking.
Discover & Dine
rednote · 小红书
Find travel ideas, neighborhood tips and places shared by other travelers.
Search for a city or place in Chinese to find more local posts.
大众点评
Find restaurants, read reviews and buy dining vouchers for discounted meals.
Before buying a voucher, check the participating locations, valid dates and any reservation requirements.
Download before departure. Store availability can vary by country or region.
Three small things to sort out before you leave.
Open your apps, finish registration and follow the prompts to set up payments. Keep access to the phone number you use to sign in.
Choose roaming, a travel eSIM or a local SIM. Check your phone’s compatibility and what your plan includes before you buy.
Save the hotel’s Chinese name, address and booking confirmation as screenshots you can show a driver, even without a connection.