Description: A super-app in China that offers a variety of services including payment, communication and more.Usage: Install WeChat to make payments, send messages, order food, book appointments, and connect with others. It’s an all-in-one solution for daily life in China.
2. Alipay (支付宝)
Description: Another widely used mobile payment platform that supports various transactions such as paying bills, transferring money, and making online purchases.Usage: Use Alipay to pay for goods and services, transfer funds, and manage your finances. It’s particularly useful for paying at small vendors and street stalls. You can bind your visa or Master card within Alipay account.In China, almost all services accept mobile payments, and you can get the goods or services you need simply by paying with WeChat or Alipay.
3. Meituan (美团)
Description: Platforms for ordering food delivery, finding restaurants, purchasing movie tickets, and more.Usage: Browse nearby restaurants, place food orders, purchase tickets, use shared bikes and explore other local services.
Shopping Apps
1. JD (京东)
Description: A major e-commerce platform in China offering a wide range of products from electronics to groceries.Usage: Shop for products across various categories, distinguished by its swift delivery service, and benefit from good customer service.
2. Taobao (淘宝)
Description: One of the largest online marketplaces in China, known for its extensive product offerings and competitive pricing. Taobao is a go-to destination for a wide variety of goods, making it easy to find almost anything you need.Usage: Browse and purchase items from millions of sellers, ranging from clothing and accessories to electronics and household goods.
3. Pinduoduo (拼多多)
Description: A social e-commerce platform where users can shop individually or in groups to get better deals. Pinduoduo distinguishes itself primarily by offering products at remarkably low and economical prices, albeit with the caveat that occasionally, the quality of these items may fall short of exceptional standards.Usage: Join group buying sessions to get discounts on a variety of products or shop individually at competitive prices.
Transportation Apps
1. 12306 (12306)
Description: The official app for purchasing train tickets, which is essential for traveling within China. During holidays and weekends, you can conveniently hop on a high-speed train to embark on excursions to explore the vast array of cities across China.Usage: Download 12306 to buy train tickets, check schedules, and manage your travel plans.
2. Ctrip (携程)
Description: A comprehensive travel booking platform for flights, hotels, tours, and other travel-related services.
3. Didi Chuxing(滴滴出行)
Description: An app for ride-hailing services including taxi, car rentals, and shared bikes.Usage:Use Didi Chuxing to book rides, choose different vehicle options, and navigate around the city.
4. Gaode Map (高德地图)
Description: A navigation and map service that helps you find directions, public transportation routes, and locations around your location.Usage: Install Gaode Map to get directions, find bus and subway routes, and explore places nearby, it also provides taxi service.