Quick setup for first-time visitors. Get connected, plan your trip, pay smoothly, and move around with less stress.
Your phone powers maps, payment, translation, and rides.
Set roaming or eSIM before you fly.
Buy a local SIM card to register and use local apps more easily.
Install Google Translate offline.
Pack a power plug adapter and a power bank.
Plan routes, bookings, and daily stops before you head out.
Amap Global: a China-friendly alternative to Google Maps for routes.
Trip.com: an all-in-one travel app for hotels, flights, trains, and bookings.
Mobile payment and credit cards are widely supported.
Alipay: QR payments, NFC tap-to-pay, and everyday services.
WeChat Pay: QR payments and everyday purchases inside WeChat.
Credit cards are accepted at many hotels and shopping malls.
Shanghai has two international airports and several high-speed rail stations.
Railway 12306: official app for train tickets.
Metro, bus, ferry, taxi, and ride-hailing are widely available.
Metro and public transport: use mobile QR or NFC, or a physical transport card.
DiDi: China’s ride-hailing app, similar to Uber or Lyft.
Best for nearby trips, private tours, business travel, and airport transfers.
Private Driver: comfortable point-to-point service for flexible travel.