How to Use Chinese Apps: Complete Guide for Travelers

• Visiting China as a foreign tourist? Many essential services, from taxis to payments, rely on apps. This guide will walk you through the most important Chinese apps and show you how to use them step by step.

▶Steps to Use:

• 1. 📲 Download WeChat from the App Store or Google Play.
• 2. 📞 Create an account using your phone number.
• 3. ✅ Verify your account via SMS code.
• 4. 👥 Add friends or scan QR codes to connect.
• 5. 💳 Use WeChat Pay for purchases (requires linking a Chinese bank card or foreign card in supported regions).

▶💡 Tips:

• Many restaurants, taxis, and shops only accept WeChat Pay or Alipay.
• Mini-programs inside WeChat can book tickets, order food, or check bus schedules.

▶Steps to Use:

• 1. 📲 Download Xiaohongshu (RED / RedNote).
• 2. 📝 Register with your phone number.
• 3. 🔍 Browse trending posts or search for specific locations or products.
• 4. 📌 Use the "Notes" feature to save or follow recommendations.
• 5. 💬 Engage with content by liking, commenting, or sharing.

▶💡 Tips:

• Xiaohongshu / RedNote is great for authentic local experiences and travel hacks.
• Some content may be in Chinese only; Google Translate can help.

▶Steps to Use:

• 1. 📲 Download Douyin.
• 2. 📞 Register with your phone number.
• 3. 📺 Browse the "For You" feed or search specific locations and topics.
• 4. ➕ Follow creators or save videos for later.
• 5. 🎯 Use Douyin to discover local events, restaurants, and attractions.

▶💡 Tips:

• Douyin is the Chinese version of TikTok and differs from the international TikTok.
• Many travel spots have short videos showcasing insider tips.

▶Steps to Use:

• 1. 📲 Download Alipay.
• 2. 📞 Register with your phone number.
• 3. 💳 Link your bank card or top up with cash.
• 4. 📷 Scan QR codes to pay in stores or transfer money to friends.
• 5. ✈️ Use the "Travel" section to buy tickets or access tourist services.

▶💡 Tips:

• Alipay has a "Tour Pass" for foreign visitors allowing temporary usage with foreign cards.

▶Steps to Use:

• 1. 📲 Download Didi Chuxing.
• 2. ✅ Register and verify your phone number.
• 3. 📍 Input pickup and drop-off locations.
• 4. 🚕 Choose the type of ride: Express, Premier, or Taxi.
• 5. 💳 Confirm and pay (WeChat Pay, Alipay, or foreign card in some cities).

▶💡 Tips:

• Didi offers English interface for travelers.
• Check traffic and surge prices before ordering.

▶Steps to Use:

• 1. 📲 Download Meituan or Ele.me.
• 2. 📝 Register your account.
• 3. 🏠 Set your delivery address.
• 4. 🛒 Browse restaurants and add items to your cart.
• 5. 💳 Checkout and pay (WeChat Pay or Alipay).

▶💡 Tips:

• Many restaurants have English menus on Meituan.
• Check delivery fees and minimum order amounts.

▶Steps to Use:

• 1. 📲 Download Amap (Gaode Maps) from the App Store or Google Play.
• 2. 📍 Allow location access.
• 3. 🔍 Search for destinations in English or Pinyin.
• 4. 🚶‍♂️ Choose walking, driving, or public transport routes.
• 5. 🧭 Follow navigation and estimated arrival times.

▶💡 Tips:

• Amap is more accurate than Google Maps in China for local navigation.
• Some menus may only be in Chinese; use translation apps if needed.

▶- 📱 Phone verification: Most apps require phone number verification. Make sure your SIM works in China.

• 📷 QR codes everywhere: Scan to pay, add contacts, or check in.
• 🌐 Language barriers: Many apps have English versions, but some menus are only in Chinese. Use translation features or copy-paste text into Google Translate.
• 📶 Internet access: Some apps require mobile data; a local SIM or eSIM works best.
• 💳 Payment setup: Link your cards early to avoid payment issues when you need them most.
• 🔄 App updates: Keep apps updated for the latest features and security patches.

• WeChat, Xiaohongshu / RED / RedNote, and Douyin for communication, social discovery, and entertainment; Alipay for payments; Didi for transportation; Meituan/Ele.me for food delivery; Amap (Gaode Maps) for navigation. Mastering these apps will make your travel in China smooth and convenient.