Cover Tatler’s guide to must-have apps in mainland China will make your trip a breeze (Photo: Getty Images)
Tatler’s guide to must-have apps in mainland China will make your trip a breeze (Photo: Getty Images)
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Whether you are planning a shopping trip to Shenzhen or a business trip to Shanghai, these must-have apps will help you navigate mainland China with ease
With the recent announcement of multi-entry visas to mainland China for Hong Kong permanent residents, there’s been a lot of interest among Hongkongers to explore the rest of the country’s incredible sights, from the bustling streets of Shanghai and the breathtaking landscapes of Zhangjiajie to the majestic Great Wall in Beijing.
Planning a trip to such a vast and diverse country can be daunting. But fear not, mainland China is a tech-savvy nation, with its unique digital landscape. While Google services might not be readily available, Tatler’s guide to essential apps will equip you with just the tools you need to navigate the country with ease. From seamless payments to exploring the streets, these apps will ensure a stress-free trip. All you need is to pack your bag, download these apps and be ready to create memories.
In case you missed it: A weekend in Shanghai: Where to stay, eat, drink and explore
1. Alipay
Above Payment in mainland China can be made by scanning QR code through the Alipay app (Photo: Getty Images)
Payment in mainland China can be made by scanning QR code through the Alipay app (Photo: Getty Images)
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Alipay should be on the top of your app download list before visiting mainland China. In major cities like Shanghai and Beijing, taxi drivers often prefer digital payments. To avoid awkward situations, create an Alipay China account and link your credit card before you travel. Alipay is available in English, and you’ll need to verify your account by uploading a copy of your passport. From diverse shops and eateries to trendy bars and restaurants, even the smallest establishments are equipped with QR codes for seamless payments. Simply scan the code with Alipay and pay directly from the app—it makes your life so much easier.
2. WeChat
Above WeChat is the equivalent of WhatsApp in mainland China (Photo: Getty Images)
WeChat is the equivalent of WhatsApp in mainland China (Photo: Getty Images)
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WeChat, mainland China’s ubiquitous messaging and social media platform, is similar to WhatsApp, but with a wider range of features. While WeChat also functions as a payment app, its primary purpose is social interaction. It can be useful for booking necessities, whether it’s a restaurant reservation or tickets for an activity. Setting up a WeChat account requires a phone number from an existing user to set up an account, but to use it as a wallet you have to go through a verification process. The system takes up to one day to verify the data you have provided.
3. Xiaohongshu
Above Find the latest trendy spots by downloading Xiaohongshu (Photo: Getty Images)
Find the latest trendy spots by downloading Xiaohongshu (Photo: Getty Images)
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For those seeking the trendiest spots in a city, Xiaohongshu, also called Red, is a must-have app, even if it’s not as intuitive as others. Consider it mainland China’s version of Instagram, a social media platform where users post photos with short descriptions about everything from fashion to food. While you can switch to the English interface, the content is in simplified Chinese. The user interface is surprisingly easy to navigate, even for non-Mandarin speakers, once you grasp the concept. Red’s geolocation feature is particularly helpful for finding local recommendations. For example, if you’re in Shanghai looking for the perfect pizza, simply type “pizza” into the search bar, and the app will display related posts from nearby users. Click on a photo that catches your eye, and you’ll often find the name and address of the spot included in the description.
4. DiDi
Above While Uber is not available in mainland China, DiDi is a similar application to book cars for transportation (Photo: Getty Images)
While Uber is not available in mainland China, DiDi is a similar application to book cars for transportation (Photo: Getty Images)
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For getting around mainland Chinese cities, even the smaller ones, DiDi is the primary app for booking taxis. Similar to Uber, DiDi is the dominant platform. You can access it through its own app or conveniently within Alipay’s mini-app. Ensure your Alipay account is properly set up, as the DiDi app utilises it for payment.
5. Apple Maps / Gaode Map
Above Apple Maps is a good alternative for driving directions (Photo: Getty Images)
Apple Maps is a good alternative for driving directions (Photo: Getty Images)
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For navigating mainland Chinese cities, Apple Maps is one of the user-friendly options for English speakers. But for more accurate directions, please also use Gaode Map (高德地图).
6. Trip
Above Trip is the must-have app to book domestic flights, train tickets and hotel room in mainland China (Photo: Getty Images)
Trip is the must-have app to book domestic flights, train tickets and hotel room in mainland China (Photo: Getty Images)
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For last-minute travel bookings, Trip is a convenient option for hotels, flights, and train tickets. A welcome bonus for many travellers is that Trip accepts credit cards, eliminating the need for WeChat or Alipay. So, are you ready to book that train to Guilin or a tour of the yellow mountains in Huangshan?
7. Baidu Translate
Above No need to worry about the language barrier, Baidu Translate is widely used in China and has a photo function for translating signs or texts (Photo: Getty Images)
No need to worry about the language barrier, Baidu Translate is widely used in China and has a photo function for translating signs or texts (Photo: Getty Images)
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Hong Kong’s English speakers may face some language barriers in mainland China. But worry not, Baidu Translate, a popular translation app, is a valuable tool. Although the app is in Chinese, its interface is intuitive if you’re familiar with other translation apps.
Alix Lefebvre was the Assistant Manager of VIP Relations & Styling Coordinator at Tatler Hong Kong. Hailing from France, she has a wealth of experience in fashion from across Europe and Asia. When she’s not busy mingling at events, you’ll find her soaking up the energetic atmosphere of Hong Kong or planning her next trip.
