eSim: For well-known reasons, you cannot continue accessing the likes of Google, Gmail, Facebook, Instagram, etc. So you need an eSIM instead of a local SIM card and you can stay connected without swapping SIM cards – and crucially, many eSIMs come with a built-in VPN. With the help of an eSIM, you can freely access blocked apps just as you would at home.
WeChat: WeChat is the most widely used app in China for communication and payments. By linking a bank card or credit card, you can conveniently shop, take public transit, or pay for various expenses.
Alipay: Another highly recommended handling payments. In cases where WeChat Pay is not supported, you can try using Alipay instead.
Amap (formerly Gaode): With the help of an eSIM, Google Maps and Apple Maps can be reliable. Without eSIM, I recommend using Amap (Gaode Maps), as its navigation is quite accurate for walking routes, finding subway schedules, and navigating.
DiDi: China’s equivalent to Uber. You can use it to securely book rides to and from tour sites, with an auto-translate feature to communicate with drivers.
Google Translate: With the help of an eSIM, Google Translate can be reliable. Google Translate can handle real-time translation between Chinese and almost all official languages.
Google Lens: With the help of an eSIM, Google Lens can be reliable. it allows you to search, understand, and interact with the world around you simply by using your smartphone camera. Google Lens comes with its built-in real-time translation, text extraction, text to speec, places & landmarks, menu insights.
Dianping: Dianping is a leading local lifestyle and consumer review platform. Often described as a hybrid of Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Groupon, it allows users to discover local businesses, read reviews, find hidden gems, and purchase in-store discounts across dining, beauty, wellness, and travel.
Taobao: Taobao is China’s largest online consumer-to-consumer (C2C) marketplace and an e-commerce “super app”. It allows independent entrepreneurs, small businesses, and brands to sell a vast assortment of goods and services directly to hundreds of millions of consumers.
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