Difficulty setting up and using essential Chinese apps (WeChat, Alipay, 12306) for travel
travel logisticsapp usabilityChina travelverification issueslanguage barrier
Summary
Foreign travelers face significant frustration and uncertainty when trying to set up and use essential Chinese apps like WeChat, Alipay, and 12306. Issues include complex ID verification that may require a Chinese phone number, selfie with passport, app bugs (e.g., button obscured by UI), erratic translation, and the app stopping to work after arrival. These problems are largely unsolved as the apps are not designed for international users, leading to high stress and potential travel disruptions.
Reddit context (brief)
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Language barrier makes using Chinese apps frustrating and time-consuming due to lack of built-in translation.
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Related angle: Difficulty setting up and using essential Chinese apps (WeChat, Alipay, 12306) for travel