Living and Working in China
Apps and Online Tools
Online Communities and Forums
Government and Visa Resources
Books and Learning Resources
Emergency and Healthcare Resources
Cultural and Social Resources
Apps and Online Tools
China has a highly digital society, and most daily tasks—from paying bills to ordering food—are done through mobile apps. Here are some of the most useful apps for living in China.
Communication and Social Apps
WeChat (微信)
WeChat is the most important app in China. It’s used for everything from messaging and calls to payments and social media. You’ll need it for connecting with people, paying for things (WeChat Pay), and joining expat groups.
Another messaging platform, popular among students and used for both personal and work communication.
WeChat Work
A version of WeChat for professional communication, often used in schools and businesses.
Navigation and Maps
Baidu Maps (百度地图)
The most commonly used maps app in China, offering detailed navigation for public transit, walking, and driving. It’s similar to Google Maps but tailored to China.
Gaode Maps (高德地图, also known as Amap)
Another highly rated maps and navigation app, useful for getting around cities and understanding traffic conditions.
Metro Man
A handy app for navigating subway systems in major Chinese cities.
Translation and Language Learning
Pleco
A powerful Chinese-English dictionary and translation app. It includes features like character recognition, pronunciation guides, and flashcards for language learners.
Google Translate
Although not always as accurate as Pleco, Google Translate offers image translation, voice translation, and text recognition that can be helpful in daily situations.
HelloTalk
A language exchange app where you can chat with native Chinese speakers and help them with English in return.
Transportation
Didi (滴滴出行)
China’s main ride-hailing app, similar to Uber. It offers English language support in some cities, but having your destination written in Chinese can still be helpful.
12306
The official app for booking high-speed train tickets in China. You can book domestic train tickets online and check availability in real-time.
Ctrip/Trip.com
A popular app for booking flights, trains, and hotels in China. It has an English interface and is useful for both domestic and international travel.
Food and Groceries
Meituan (美团)
A food delivery app that offers takeout from a wide range of restaurants, as well as grocery and convenience store delivery.
Ele.me (饿了么)
Another leading food delivery platform, similar to Meituan, and widely used in major cities.
Taobao (淘宝)
China’s most popular e-commerce platform, where you can buy everything from clothing to groceries.
Tmall (天猫)
The premium version of Taobao, known for higher-end products and imported goods.
Financial and Banking
Alipay (支付宝)
An essential app for making payments in China, similar to WeChat Pay. You can link it to your Chinese bank account and use it to pay for almost anything, from utilities to groceries.
Bank Apps
Most major Chinese banks (Bank of China, ICBC, China Merchants Bank) have their own mobile apps for managing your accounts, transferring money, and paying bills.
Healthcare and Well-being
Ping An Good Doctor (平安好医生)
A telemedicine app that allows you to consult with doctors, get prescriptions, and order medications.
AirVisual
For monitoring air quality, which is especially important in major cities where pollution levels can fluctuate significantly.
MindFi
A mindfulness and meditation app to help with stress and mental well-being, particularly useful if adjusting to a new culture becomes overwhelming.
Online Communities and Forums
Building a support network and finding helpful advice from other expats is crucial for a successful transition to life in China. These online communities provide a wealth of information on a variety of topics, from visa issues to cultural tips.
The Beijinger
A popular expat website with news, events, forums, and classifieds for those living in Beijing.
Shanghai Expat
A website and forum catering to the expat community in Shanghai, offering resources on living, working, and socializing in the city.
Internations
A global expat community that hosts events and offers advice for expats living in cities around the world, including many Chinese cities.
Reddit (r/China)
A subreddit where expats and travelers can share advice, news, and tips about living in China.
WeChat Expat Groups
Many expats connect through WeChat groups focused on specific cities, interests (e.g., hiking, language learning), or professional networks. Joining local WeChat groups is highly recommended for staying connected and getting insider tips.
Government and Visa Resources
Navigating Chinese bureaucracy can be complex, particularly when it comes to visas and legal matters. These resources provide official information and services related to living in China.
National Immigration Administration
The official government site for visa regulations, residency permits, and immigration services.
Chinese Embassy or Consulate Websites
It’s important to regularly check the website of the Chinese consulate or embassy in your home country for updates on visa policies and entry requirements
China Foreign Expert Affairs
This government website offers guidance on work permits and other regulations for foreign professionals working in China.
Books and Learning Resources
Understanding Chinese culture, language, and history is key to thriving in China. Here are some books and online resources that provide valuable insights into Chinese society.
Books on China
“River Town” by Peter Hessler
A memoir of an American teacher’s time in a small Chinese town, offering insight into life in rural China and the cultural shifts the country has undergone.
“The Search for Modern China” by Jonathan Spence
A comprehensive history of China from the 17th century to the present, ideal for gaining a deeper understanding of the country’s historical background.
“Wild Swans” by Jung Chang
A personal account of three generations of Chinese women living through the tumultuous 20th century, offering an intimate look at Chinese history and politics.
“Factory Girls” by Leslie Chang
This book explores the lives of young migrant workers in China’s industrial cities, providing a look into the country’s rapid urbanization and economic growth.
Chinese Language Learning
“Integrated Chinese” (Textbook series)
A popular textbook series for learning Mandarin, used in many university courses and self-study programs.
ChinesePod
An online platform for learning Mandarin through podcasts, lessons, and exercises, tailored for different proficiency levels.
HSK Resources
If you’re studying Mandarin seriously, the HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) exam system is a great way to track your progress. There are plenty of online materials, including practice tests and vocabulary lists, to help prepare for the exams.
Emergency and Healthcare Resources
Knowing where to turn in case of an emergency or medical issue is crucial for your safety while living in China.
Emergency Numbers
• Police: 110
• Fire: 119
• Ambulance: 120
International SOS
Provides emergency assistance and healthcare services, including medical evacuations and consultations, often used by expats for serious medical needs.
United Family Healthcare
A chain of private international hospitals and clinics in China, popular among expats for English-speaking doctors and comprehensive medical care.
Cultural and Social Resources
To truly immerse yourself in Chinese culture, it’s important to tap into resources that will enhance your understanding of the country’s traditions, arts, and social norms.
Cultural China
An online portal offering articles, videos, and information about Chinese festivals, customs, and etiquette.
China Daily
An English-language news outlet that covers current events in China, with articles on everything from politics to lifestyle.
That’s Magazine
A lifestyle magazine with editions in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and other cities, offering insights into dining, nightlife, and cultural events.