Do I need a Chinese app store account?

No. All of the essentials install from a normal international store, or run as mini-programs inside the wallet you already set up.

Should I install everything, or just payments?

Payments first, then maps. The rest can wait until you are online in China.

Plan around it rather than depending on it: download offline content before you fly and keep the essentials working without a connection.

Which apps should I install before flying to China?

Short answer

Install and verify a payment wallet, a local map, the rail app, a ride-hailing option and an offline translation pack before you fly. Everything that needs identity verification or an SMS code should be finished at home — those are the steps that fail at the airport.

The short list

Alipay or WeChat — payments, and the transport code for every metro
Amap — street-level maps and directions
12306 — high-speed rail booking with a passport
DiDi, or the ride-hailing mini-program inside your wallet
An offline translation pack that works without signal

Finish these at home, not at the airport

Bind your card and complete passport verification — both may need an SMS
Install a travel eSIM and confirm the phone is unlocked
Activate the metro code for your first city
Download offline maps and the phrase pack

Install sources

Use your home app store before departure where possible, since some regional stores do not carry these apps. The ChinaPass app lists reliable install sources for each one.

Related guides

Official sources

Policies and booking channels change — check the official channel before you rely on it.