Traveling in China requires more than just an itinerary – it calls for the right digital tools. With popular Western apps like Google Maps, WhatsApp, and Gmail restricted in mainland China, local alternatives are essential for staying connected and on track. BCD’s Agnes Heng, Director of Marketing & Communications based in Singapore, shares her recommendations for apps to download and set up before departure.
12306 China Railway
For high-speed train travel, the 12306 app is the official platform for checking routes and booking tickets. It’s widely used but mostly in Chinese, so travelers may need assistance during setup or booking. https://www.12306.cn/en/
Alipay & WeChat
These are the go-to apps for just about everything in China. WeChat is widely used for messaging, voice and video calls, scanning QR codes, and mobile payments. Alipay offers similar functionality and is accepted at most shops, restaurants, and transport services. Many places don’t take international credit cards – these apps are how China pays. https://global.alipay.com/ and https://www.wechat.com/
Before the trip: Double-check that all debit or credit cards being used on the trip are compatible with Alipay’s Tour Pass or international payment features. Some foreign cards – especially debit cards – may not work, so it’s smart to test setup in advance and have a backup payment method ready.
Baidu Maps
With Google Maps restricted, Baidu Maps is the best bet for navigating Chinese cities. It’s particularly good for walking and public transit directions. While it may have some language barriers, it remains the most reliable source for accurate mapping within the country. https://www.baiduinenglish.com/baidu-maps.html
Planning APAC travel in 2025?
Explore the top APAC business travel destinations in 2025 with BCD’s latest Cities & Trends report
The analysis reveals the most popular cities and countries for regional and long-haul travel, preferred flight types and cabin classes, and takes a closer look at the growing role of rail in China and Japan. Get valuable insights into what’s shaping corporate travel across the region.
Didi
Didi is China’s version of Uber and an easy way to book taxis or ride-hailing services. It supports English and allows for international payment methods, making it much more convenient than trying to hail a cab on the street. Travelers should be sure to check their travel policy for transportation guidelines, including rideshare. https://www.didiglobal.com/
Meituan
From restaurant reservations to food delivery, Meituan is one of China’s most popular local apps. It’s especially helpful for travelers in a new city who want a meal delivered or need to explore dining options near their hotel or meeting location. http://www.meituan.com/mobile/
Pleco
Pleco is an excellent English-Chinese dictionary and translation app. It works offline and includes features like voice recognition and character lookup – ideal for translating menus, signs, or holding quick conversations. https://www.pleco.com/
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
To access blocked apps and websites – like Gmail, Google Drive, or WhatsApp – you’ll need a reliable VPN. Top options include ExpressVPN and NordVPN, but the key is to download and activate them before entering China, where access to VPN websites is also restricted.
Pro tip: Due to China’s language settings and internet restrictions, downloading apps after arrival can be challenging. Travelers are advised to download and configure all essential apps before departing. This proactive step helps avoid confusion and connectivity issues once on the ground.
Attending the GBTA APAC Conference? Connect with BCD Travel in Shanghai
Join us at the GBTA APAC Conference, May 27–28 in Shanghai. Don’t miss the sessions featuring BCD Travel experts – add them to your agenda and stop by to say hello. See you in Shanghai – or share these session details with your teams heading to the conference.
The Big Idea | May 27, 10:00–11:00 am
Made possible by BCD Travel
Join BCD’s Ben Wedlock, Senior Vice President of global sales for Asia Pacific, and other leaders for an engaging, interactive session exploring the future of business travel.
Bleisure & Hush Trips: Who Bears the Responsibility? | May 27, 11:30 am–12:15 pm
Presented by the GBTA APAC Risk Committee and featuring Christine Connolley, Senior Crisis Program Manager at BCD Travel
Dive into emerging trends, risks, and legal concerns around bleisure travel and “hush trips.”
Pain-free Hotel Payments: Just a Dream? | May 27, 11:30 am–12:15 pm
Co-developed with Conferma and featuring Jonathan Kao CFA , Managing Director – North Asia at BCD Travel
Endless admin, unhappy travelers, and missing data can make travel payments a headache for both buyers and suppliers alike. So, how do we fix it?
BCD’s Jonathan Kao will come together with other key players from across the travel ecosystem to tackle this challenge. Jonathan and other panelists will explore where travel payments are today, ambitions for the future, and how, together, we can create a seamless, stress-free experience for everyone.
