Everything you need to know before setting foot in China—from cultural norms to travel essentials.
The smart phone is the most important thing in Chinese life. Everything is online.
Network
As for some political reasons, you can‘t use apps like Google/Twitter/Instagram etc. You need to buy VPN software in advance to prevent losing contact with your family and friends.
Apps you must download
- WeChat, the most commonly used chat app, all in one app
- Chat
- Pay money through this app
- Share location with others
- Book or buy attraction tickets
- Alipay, payment app
- Amap, map app
- 12306, national railway apps, you can buy railway tickets through this app
- didi, Chinese Uber
Payment and money
People rarely use cash, especially in big cities, like Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou. So you don’t need exchange much cash. All you need is attach your credit card in WeChat or Alipay.