Want to go to China? Here’s what you need to know! Must-have apps for living in China

If you’re planning to go to China, whether for travel, study, or work, it’s important to be prepared with the right apps. The Chinese government blocks access to many popular platforms like Google, Facebook, Line, YouTube, and Instagram. To make sure you’re not lost when you get there, ACU PAY has gathered a list of essential apps that you’ll need to navigate life in China. Download these apps before you go!

Must-Have Apps for China:

WeChat (similar to WhatsApp + Line + Wallet)

Use it for chatting, working, calling friends, sending money, and paying through WeChat Pay almost everywhere.
It’s also required to register for many Chinese apps.

Alipay (similar to PayPal + Mobile Banking)

China’s top payment app, used for buying things, booking train tickets, flights, hotels, and even paying for transportation.

VPN (for using other apps)

Since platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google are blocked in China, you’ll need a VPN to access them (but make sure the VPN you choose works properly).

Everyday Apps:

Baidu (similar to Google Search)

Use Baidu for searching anything you need.

Baidu Translate (similar to Google Translate)

A language translation app that works well for translating between Chinese and Thai.

Gaode Map (similar to Google Maps)

A navigation app that’s more accurate than Google Maps or Apple Maps for getting around in China.

Didi (similar to Uber + Grab)

A popular ride-hailing app used throughout China.

Meituan (similar to GrabFood)

The go-to app for ordering food in China.

Social & Entertainment Apps:

Redbook (Xiaohongshu) (similar to Instagram + Pantip)

Post lifestyle content, food reviews, and travel recommendations.

Weibo (similar to X/Twitter)

Follow celebrities, trends, and news in China.

Douyin (similar to TikTok)

The Chinese version of TikTok, which is extremely popular in China.

BiliBili (similar to YouTube)

A platform for watching videos, including anime, series, and live streams, popular in China

iQIYI (similar to Netflix)

An app for watching Chinese and international movies and series.

Shopping Apps:

Taobao (similar to Shopee + Lazada)

A cheap and popular online shopping platform in China.

If you’re heading to China, make sure you have WeChat, Alipay, and Didi, these are the three apps you’ll use every day. Other apps can be downloaded based on your lifestyle needs. If you want to access Thai apps, you’ll need a VPN to use Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube. For first-time visitors to China, it’s recommended to download these apps in advance so you won’t have to worry about finding them once you’re there.