WeChat is China’s most popular app and a must-have tool for travelers. It offers a wide range of services beyond messaging, making it incredibly useful for day-to-day activities such as payments, ordering food, booking transport, and accessing local information. If you're traveling in China, learning how to use WeChat will help you navigate the country more efficiently and enhance your overall travel experience. Here's a guide on how to use WeChat for your everyday travel needs in China.
1. Set Up and Link Your WeChat Account
Before using WeChat for various travel services, you’ll need to set up your account. While the app is available in multiple languages, some features, especially payments, are primarily in Chinese, so it's helpful to have a basic understanding of the language or use a translation tool.
Steps to Set Up:
Download and Install: Download WeChat from the App Store or Google Play Store.
Register: Create an account using your phone number. You will need a valid international phone number to sign up.
Add Your Contacts: Link your phone contacts, or use the "People Nearby" feature to connect with locals or fellow travelers.
Add a Profile Picture and Details: Personalize your account for easier identification.
2. Using WeChat Pay for Easy Payments
One of WeChat's most useful features for travelers is WeChat Pay, which allows you to make payments directly through the app. You can pay for almost anything in China, from restaurants and transportation to shopping and tourist attractions.
How to Set Up WeChat Pay:
Link Your Bank Account or Credit Card: Open the app and go to "Me" > "WeChat Pay" > "Wallet" > "Bank Cards" to add your card details. Note that international credit cards may not always work in WeChat Pay, so it’s often best to link a Chinese bank account.
Top Up Your WeChat Wallet: You can also transfer money to your WeChat Wallet from a local bank account for easier use.
Paying with WeChat Pay: To pay, simply scan the QR code at checkout (or have the merchant scan your code), confirm the payment, and you're good to go.
WeChat Pay Uses:
Restaurants: Scan QR codes on the table or at the cashier to pay your bill.
Shops: WeChat Pay is widely accepted in stores, from major shopping malls to small street markets.
Tourist Attractions: Many major tourist sites, including museums and parks, accept WeChat Pay for entrance fees.
3. Ordering Food and Delivery with WeChat
Food delivery is a breeze with WeChat’s integrated Mini Programs, which allow you to access food delivery services like Meituan and Ele.me. These services offer a wide variety of cuisines from both local restaurants and international chains.
How to Order Food:
Go to the “Discover” Tab: Click on "Discover" at the bottom of your WeChat screen, then choose "Mini Programs."
Search for a Food Delivery Service: Look for apps like Meituan or Ele.me, which will allow you to order food to your location.
Select Your Meal: Browse menus, pick your food, and place your order. You can even opt for a meal in a language you're familiar with using translation tools.
Payment: Use WeChat Pay to complete the transaction. You can track your delivery status in the app.
Food Ordering Benefits:
Convenience: Order meals right to your hotel or accommodation, especially in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou.
Variety: Choose from a wide range of food types, from local Chinese specialties to international cuisine.
Ease of Use: No need to call or speak Chinese—simply navigate the menu and confirm your order via WeChat.
4. Booking Transport and Ride-Hailing with WeChat
WeChat integrates popular ride-hailing services like Didi Chuxing, which works similarly to Uber. You can use it to book taxis, private cars, or even carpooling services.
How to Book a Ride:
Access Didi Chuxing: From the “Discover” tab, click on "Mini Programs" and search for Didi Chuxing.
Enter Your Ride Details: Set your pickup location and destination, and choose the type of ride (e.g., taxi, private car, or even a ride share).
Confirm Your Ride: Didi will show the fare and estimated arrival time. Confirm your ride and use WeChat Pay to pay for the service.
Track Your Ride: Follow the ride's progress and communicate with the driver through the app if necessary.
Didi Features:
Language Options: Didi offers an English interface, making it easier for international travelers to navigate.
Cashless Payments: Pay directly through WeChat without worrying about carrying cash or having to exchange currency.
Ride History: Keep track of your rides and receipts within the app.
5. Finding Tourist Information and Directions
WeChat also provides access to official city accounts and public services, making it easier to find information about transportation, tourist attractions, and local events.
How to Find Tourist Information:
Search for Official Accounts: Use the “Search” function in the main menu to find official accounts of Chinese cities, tourist sites, or cultural centers. For example, you can search for Beijing Tourism or Shanghai Metro.
Chat with Official Accounts: These accounts often provide valuable information, including opening hours, transportation options, and event schedules. Many of these services are available in both Chinese and English.
Use WeChat's Maps: WeChat integrates with Gaode Maps, a popular navigation app in China. You can use it to get walking directions, public transportation routes, and real-time traffic updates.
6. Language and Translation Features
Navigating China can be challenging due to the language barrier, but WeChat helps by offering translation tools within the app.
How to Use WeChat’s Translation Tool:
Translate Messages: If you're chatting with someone in Chinese, tap on the message and select Translate to convert it into English or another language.
In-App Translation: You can also use the built-in translation feature in the WeChat official accounts or Mini Programs for real-time translation of content.
Voice Translation: WeChat allows you to send voice messages, and these can be translated in real time for easy communication with locals.
7. Sharing and Receiving Documents or Tickets
WeChat also makes it easy to send and receive tickets, vouchers, and other important documents while traveling.
Ticket Management:
Train Tickets: If you purchase tickets for China’s high-speed trains or flights, you can save electronic tickets and boarding passes directly in WeChat and show them when boarding.
Event Tickets: Many tourist sites and events allow you to purchase tickets through WeChat, which can be stored in your wallet or shared with friends.
8. WeChat Group Chats for Local Tips
Joining WeChat group chats can help you connect with other travelers or locals to get recommendations and tips for your trip.
How to Join WeChat Groups:
Ask Locals: Many hotels and hostels organize group chats for travelers. Ask your host if they have any recommended groups.
Search for Groups: Search for travel groups on topics like China Travel Tips or Local Events to get insider recommendations.
Get Local Advice: Participate in these chats to receive updates about local events, promotions, or hidden gems in the city you’re visiting.
