Apps to Download Before Going to China (2026)

Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Uber and most Western apps are blocked in mainland China. Here are the Chinese alternatives you need.

Essential Apps for China

WeChat (微信) — Replaces WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger. Required for messaging, payments, and QR code scanning.
Alipay (支付宝) — Replaces PayPal, Apple Pay. China is cashless — most shops only accept Alipay or WeChat Pay.
DiDi (滴滴) — Replaces Uber, Lyft. China's largest ride-hailing app, works with international phone numbers.
Amap / 高德地图 — Replaces Google Maps. The most accurate navigation app in China with English mode.
Baidu Translate (百度翻译) — Replaces Google Translate. Works offline and includes a camera translation feature.
Meituan (美团) — Replaces DoorDash, Yelp. Food delivery and restaurant discovery across China.

Download WeChat first. Set it up while you have unrestricted internet — you'll need it for everything from payments to booking taxis.
Link a card to Alipay or WeChat Pay. International Visa/Mastercard now work. Most shops won't accept foreign cards directly.
Get a VPN or local SIM before landing. Downloading VPNs inside China is difficult. A Chinese SIM gives fast local data without needing a VPN.