APP INDEX / 01—09

App finder

Use the closest overseas comparison as a starting point. Check the actual task, setup and limitations before you travel.

Paying in shops

Alipay / WeChat Pay

A mobile wallet, with different setup and acceptance from PayPal or Apple Pay.

Familiar referencePayPal / Apple Pay

Booking a car

DiDi

A ride-hailing option comparable in purpose to Uber; pickup and account setup deserve a separate check.

Familiar referenceUber

Booking a train

China Railway 12306

The official rail ticket channel, rather than a like-for-like Trainline marketplace.

Familiar referenceTrainline

Finding a stay

Trip.com / Ctrip

A place to compare and book accommodation; always check passport, cancellation and payment details.

Familiar referenceBooking.com

Finding your way

Amap / Apple Maps

Local map choices for addresses and routes. Verify the exact entrance and keep the Chinese address.

Familiar referenceGoogle Maps

Ordering food

Meituan

Food ordering is the shared task; address, phone verification and handoff are different from Uber Eats.

Familiar referenceUber Eats

Messages and services

WeChat

Messaging like WhatsApp, with local service mini programs that need their own account and payment checks.

Familiar referenceWhatsApp

Shopping and delivery

Taobao / JD.com

Online marketplaces comparable in task to Amazon; shipping addresses, returns and seller terms differ.

Familiar referenceAmazon

Metro and buses

Local transit codes

A city transport QR code can act like a mobile transit pass; activation and acceptance vary by city.

Familiar referenceMobile transit pass

We distinguish official services from third-party booking platforms, give fallback options, and link to the source for rules that can change. Availability, card acceptance, fees and account checks vary.