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These apps make daily life in China much easier. Install and set them up in your first days.
Core apps
| Category | Apps | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Messaging | Everyone uses it; also payments and services | |
| Payments | Alipay | Payments, transport, bills, mini-apps |
| Transport | DiDi | Ride-hailing with English support |
| Delivery | Meituan, Ele.me | Food and grocery delivery |
| Maps | Amap, Baidu Maps | Local navigation and transit |
| Trains | Official rail app / 12306 | Buy high-speed rail tickets |
Useful extras
- Translation: a translation app with camera text recognition.
- Learning Chinese: apps for HSK vocabulary and listening.
- Banking: your bank’s app for transfers and balances.
- University apps: campus card, library, course portals.
Set-up tips
- Register with your local phone number — most apps need it.
- Complete identity verification (passport) where required.
- Enable payment in WeChat/Alipay so you can pay on the go.
- Turn on notifications for delivery and transport apps.
Notes
- Some international apps/sites may not work directly from mainland China; plan accordingly.
- App availability and features change frequently.
Install what your university recommends for campus services, and ask current students what they actually use.