The 8 apps you need for China (and how to install them without Google)
Problem: In China you cannot access Google Play or normal app stores. You need to install them differently.
The app chaos in China
Google Play does NOT work in China. Neither Play Store, nor Gmail, nor YouTube, nor Google Maps. Everything blocked.
How to install apps in China:
iPhone:
- Create an Apple ID with "China mainland" region (before traveling)
- Download the apps from the Chinese App Store
Android:
- Download APKs directly from the web (search "APKMirror")
- Or use the manufacturer's app store (Huawei AppGallery, etc.)
The essential apps
1. WeChat (微信) — CHINA'S APP
Without WeChat, you don't exist in China. It's WhatsApp + PayPal + Facebook + Uber all in one.
- Download: Search "WeChat" in your app store
- Settings: Register with your phone number
- Trick: Add your Chinese friends (if you have them) BEFORE you arrive
What you can do with WeChat:
- Send messages (like WhatsApp)
- Pay in stores (like Apple Pay)
- Order taxis (like Uber)
- Reserve restaurants
- Buy movie tickets
2. Alipay (支付宝) — Mobile payments
The other dominant payment system. Many businesses accept one or the other.
- Download: Search "Alipay" in your app store
- Settings: Register with your phone number
- Trick: Add your international card in the app
Difference with WeChat Pay:
- WeChat Pay: most used by locals
- Alipay: most used by tourists and large businesses
- Tip: Install both. Some sites only accept one.
3. VPN — Without this nothing works
Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube — all blocked in China. You need a VPN.
- NordVPN (most reliable in China) — nordvpn.com
- ExpressVPN — expressvpn.com
- Astrill VPN — astrill.com (most expensive but most stable)
INSTALL THE VPN BEFORE ARRIVING IN CHINA. Once in China, you cannot download it.
How to configure:
- Download the VPN at home
- Register and pay
- Connect to a server (recommended: Japan or Singapore)
- Test it works before flying
4. Baidu Maps (百度地图) — China Maps
Google Maps does not work. Baidu Maps is the Chinese equivalent.
- Limitation: Only works in Chinese
- Alternative: Amap (高德地图) — also in Chinese but with better UI
Trick: Use the Google Translate camera to translate maps in real time.
5. DiDi (滴滴) — The Uber of China
It works in all major cities. Payment with WeChat Pay or Alipay.
- Download: Search "DiDi" in your app store
- Trick: If you can't pay with the app, ask your hotel to call you a taxi
6. Trip.com — Train and Hotel Reservations
The best app to book Chinese high-speed trains (CRH).
- Download: Trip.com or Ctrip (the Chinese version)
- Trick: The trains fill up quickly. Reserve 2-3 days in advance.
7. Google Translate — Offline translation
It works in China if you download the offline Chinese package BEFORE you arrive.
- How to: Open the app → Download language → Chinese → Download
- Trick: The camera translates signs and menus in real time
8. WeChat Pay / Alipay — Settings for foreigners
From 2023, foreigners can link international cards to WeChat Pay and Alipay.
How to link your card to WeChat Pay:
- Open WeChat → Me → Pay
- Tap "Bank Card"
- Add your credit/debit card
- Enter the data
- Verify with SMS
How to link to Alipay:
- Open Alipay → Me → Cards
- Add your card
- Enter the data
- Check
Limitations:
- They only accept Visa/Mastercard cards (not AMEX)
- There may be daily spending limits
- Some small businesses do not accept international cards
Step-by-step setup: What you need to do TODAY
Step 1: Install VPN (10 minutes)
- Download NordVPN or ExpressVPN
- Register and pay (1 month ≈ €10)
- Connect to server in Japan
- Test it works
Step 2: Download WeChat and Alipay (10 minutes)
- Download both apps
- Register with your number
- Link your card (if possible)
- Try making a small transfer
Step 3: Prepare offline maps (5 minutes)
- Download Google Translate with Chinese offline
- Download maps of your route (using VPN)
Errors I see over and over again
- ❌ Do not install VPN before arriving → You cannot download anything in China
- ❌ Don't set up WeChat Pay → You can't pay anywhere
- ❌ Rely on cash only → Many places do not accept cash
- ❌ Don't try the VPN → Some don't work in China
Final checklist
- ☐ VPN installed and working (NordVPN/ExpressVPN)
- ☐ WeChat registered and card linked
- ☐ Alipay configured
- ☐ Google Translate with Chinese offline
- ☐ Baidu Maps or Amap installed
- ☐ DiDi configured
- ☐ Trip.com for trains
- ☐ Backup cash (500-1000 yuan)