China 2026

E-sim via Trip.com has been sufficient for me. I bought the 1GB that throttles to 512KB/s once used up. I have found the 512KB/s is sufficient for basic usage (e.g. WeChat, payment, bike share, Amap, etc.).

Android Tools

Translation

While Shanghai may have decent English support, much of it is limited to headings and any detailed information may remain in Chinese. Note that any Google services will not work without an non-China mainland SIM. I recommend the following based on use case:

Live translate on-screen text: Circle (by Google) which does so via screen share
Physical posters: Google Len, Google Translate, WeChat scan all have camera based translation
Speech / Audio: Google Translate has live audio translation and pronunciation

Apps

I recommend you install the following apps before arriving in China.

WeChat

The app for everything. Use for communication, doom-scrolling, and most importantly, the mini-programs. Use the scan feature to scan anything. Often, this will launch mini-programs for various goods and services. Payment can also be used, where you can either scan the merchant’s QR code or have them scan yours. Linking an international credit card to your WeChat account is straightforward.

Amap

One of the better map tools for China. Good for all modes of transport including biking, subway, driving. With the transit overlay, can view metro station entrances (which are numbered in Shanghai). This allows you to also use underground metro passageways to avoid bad weather.

12306 China Railway (for train tickets)

Used to book train tickets. Set up in Chinese language, as the interface is much better and verification quicker. I did not have success verifying my passport via the English version. Tickets generally release 2 weeks ahead of time, at staggered times based on route/station (see ticket release time in app). At station, present ticket QR code and passport at entry. Only need passport when boarding.

Mini-Programs

Mini-programs are enclosed apps that can be used via WeChat/Alipay. Sometimes, scanning QR codes may open up a mini-program. These can be installed in China.

乘车码 for Subway/Bus

App used throughout China for transit. Displays a QR code that works for subway, metro, etc. Make sure to select Shanghai.

The bike share app for the yellow bikes. An account requires a phone number (don’t recall if it has to Chinese）. Scan the QR code on the bike to unlock. Then return/re-lock bike via app once finished. A 7-day pass can be bought for infinite short rides.

Shopping

Naturehike for Outdoor Gear

Naturehike makes lightweight tents that are highly rated relative to competitors in the NA market, sold at a fraction of the price for nearly the same quality.

Info

Networking / Data