Essential apps for living in Shanghai
As a newcomer to Shanghai, you may find it challenging to live and travel in the city. But with the right apps on your phone, your trip can go from zero to hero.
1. Multipurpose app: WeChat
The first app you need to download is definitely WeChat. WeChat is one of the most popular apps in China. You can use WeChat for messaging, voice or video calls, paying bills, and many other everyday tasks.
How to use WeChat like a local
2. Payment: WeChat Pay and Alipay
WeChat Pay and Alipay are the two major digital payment methods in China. By scanning a QR code, you can pay for almost everything, from coffee to clothing. Both WeChat and Alipay support an English-language version.
3. Shopping: Taobao, JD, and Pinduoduo
The three apps are typical online marketplaces, similar to Amazon. You can search for a product, sift through options, buy items for delivery, and communicate with sellers.
Pinduoduo is China's major online discounter, where you can sometimes buy products at surprisingly low prices through joint purchasing with other buyers.
Taobao is another popular online marketplace that offers a wide range of products, spanning from clothing and electronics to unique and niche items, providing you with virtually limitless options for your shopping needs.
For expedited delivery, we recommend JD. Although you may not find as many niche options, it's still possible to buy most items, from technology to overseas products.
Pinduoduo made easy: How to shop and save
Shopping on JD: A beginner's guide
4. Translation: Pleco and Baidu Translate
Type a word or phrase in the search bar, and Pleco will do the rest. The app provides all possible translations for the word or phrase. Pleco is not only a dictionary app but also a great tool for learning Chinese.
Baidu Translate is another useful app for expats who want to learn Chinese or need translation. The service supports more than 100 languages, including less common ones such as Swahili and Bengali. It also allows you to translate by voice, text, or photo.
8 translation tools that break language barriers
How to use Pleco to learn Chinese
5. Navigation: Gaode Maps and Baidu Maps
Gaode Maps, also known as Amap, is a navigation app that provides users with real-time traffic updates. As long as you know the name of your desired destination, Gaode will give you all the possible methods of transport, including public transportation, walking, or biking.
Baidu Maps offers real-time GPS navigation, traffic information, and route planning. The navigation service provides turn-by-turn voice guidance to help drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians reach their destinations.
6. Car-hailing services: DiDi
DiDi is the Chinese equivalent of Uber, and it is available in English. DiDi provides options for both taxis and private cars. In the event of a dispute, users can contact customer services via the help chat, which is also available in English.
You can also use DiDi or Meituan for bike rental services if you prefer cycling around Shanghai.
7. Travel: Ctrip and China Railway 12306
Ctrip is a travel app that is useful for booking flights, hotels, and trains. The more you spend, the higher your status goes, which comes with bigger discounts and rewards. If you want to book train tickets, you can also use China Railway 12306, the nation's official train ticket booking system.
A guide to Shanghai's all-in-one transport app
8. Food delivery: Taobao Flash Shopping and Meituan
Taobao Flash Shopping, formerly known as Ele.me, is Alibaba's integrated instant retail service that combines Taobao's massive e-commerce platform with Ele.me's delivery network to deliver a wide range of goods from meals to electronics.
Meituan is another popular food delivery app. Upon loading the app, the nearest eateries appear, but you can search for a more specific restaurant or food if you prefer.
9. Shanghai QR code
The "Shanghai QR Code", known as "Suishenma", offers a versatile, one-stop solution for accessing a wide range of services, including healthcare, transportation, and tourism. The app is available for expats to register and use.
A guide to using the 'Shanghai QR Code'
10. Buying movie tickets: Maoyan and Taopiaopiao
If you want to watch movies in Shanghai, buying tickets online is the most convenient option. Not only do you avoid long lines, but you can also get more discounts. With just a few taps, you can easily secure your preferred screening time.
Popular apps for buying movie tickets include Maoyan and Taopiaopiao.
How to buy movie tickets online
Updated July 21, 2026
