← Back to guides

Apps

Set up Alipay, WeChat Pay, and DiDi before you land

Configure your payment and mobility stack in advance so your first day in China is frictionless.

6 min read|All travelers|Updated Feb 2026

Download a clean offline copy

Step 01

Install and verify core apps in sequence

Install Alipay and WeChat first, then complete identity and bank card linking while you have stable internet at home.

After payments are confirmed, add DiDi and test map permissions. This prevents airport-arrival dead ends where one missing permission blocks booking.

Step 02

Set fallback payment paths

Enable at least two payment methods so a single card block does not stall your day. Save screenshots of success states for quick troubleshooting.

Keep a small emergency cash buffer for edge cases, but assume most scenarios are fully mobile-payment driven.

Step 03

Preload language and address helpers

Save your hotel name and address in both English and Chinese. Keep these in notes and screenshots so they are available offline.

Add commonly used phrases for transport, food allergies, and check-in requests. This trims cognitive load when you are tired after arrival.

Next route decision

Confirm your entry path before booking.

Run the visa checker with your exact passport and itinerary. It turns this guide into a route you can execute.