Shanghai is taking a bold step toward becoming one of the world’s most tourist-friendly cities by launching Easy Go, a comprehensive digital platform tailored specifically for international travelers. Developed in partnership with Alipay and local government agencies, this English-language mobile app aims to eliminate common travel hassles and provide a seamless, intuitive experience for foreign visitors navigating the bustling metropolis.
Set to debut in time for the 2025 Shanghai Summer International Consumption Season, which begins in early July and continues until mid-October, Easy Go is designed as an all-in-one tool that allows tourists to effortlessly explore the city, make payments, book experiences, and access practical travel guidance—all from a single interface.
A One-Stop Digital Gateway to Shanghai
With a sleek user interface and language support features, Easy Go provides real-time English support and instant translation in multiple languages, allowing tourists from around the world to feel at home as they navigate Shanghai’s rich blend of history, culture, and modern marvels.
The app is anchored by five primary sections: Services, Benefits, Guides, Travel Tips, and Language Support. Each category has been thoughtfully curated to serve the dynamic needs of modern travelers.
30 Mini Programs Across Food, Transport, Sightseeing, and Shopping
The Services section gives users access to 30 integrated mini programs categorized into four traveler-focused themes: food, transportation, sightseeing, and shopping. These tools are easily accessible from the homepage and include features for:
- Placing food delivery orders or browsing local restaurant recommendations
- Checking metro and bus schedules, hailing taxis, and unlocking shared bikes
- Booking attraction tickets, storing luggage at key locations
- Locating tax refund counters through Shanghai’s citywide tax refund map
Among its standout features is the pioneering “Tap for Tax Refund”, designed to streamline the VAT refund process for international shoppers. This digital innovation enhances the convenience of claiming refunds on purchases made across major retail and commercial zones.
Exclusive Discounts Through the ‘Shanghai Coupon Pack’
In collaboration with Shanghai’s vibrant business community, the app’s Benefits section delivers a variety of exclusive deals through its “Shanghai Coupon Pack” initiative. Tourists can access promotions for:
- Popular cultural performances and museums
- Major attractions like The Bund, Yu Garden, and Shanghai Tower
- Retail hubs and exhibition centers
- Sports events and entertainment venues
These offers are designed not only to attract tourists but also to boost local commerce and encourage deeper engagement with Shanghai’s cultural fabric.
City Insights and Up-to-Date Lifestyle Guides
The Guides section, developed in collaboration with the International Services Shanghai portal, provides timely lifestyle updates, curated itineraries, and local recommendations. Whether travelers are looking for off-the-beaten-path adventures or top-rated city highlights, this section offers relevant and reliable insights to enrich every journey.
Content is updated regularly and reflects seasonal events, public holidays, and new attractions, ensuring tourists always have access to the most relevant information.
Video Travel Tips by Influencers and Official Media
The Travel Tips section combines entertainment with education, featuring dynamic short videos produced by both official Chinese media outlets and renowned international influencers. These visually engaging clips cover:
- Culinary hotspots and traditional delicacies
- Must-visit landmarks and natural retreats
- Shopping destinations and hidden gems
This section enhances trip planning and inspires spontaneous exploration with authentic, real-time perspectives on what Shanghai has to offer.
Multilingual Support for Global Travelers
While English is the default language of the app, Easy Go also supports several other languages through real-time AI-powered translation tools. This ensures accessibility for non-English-speaking travelers, making it an inclusive tool for visitors from Asia, Europe, the Americas, and beyond.
By bridging the language gap, the app allows users to confidently navigate city systems such as public transport, ordering food, and dealing with emergency services.
Strategic Timing with 2025 Summer International Consumption Season
Shanghai’s government has timed the launch of Easy Go to coincide with the 2025 Summer International Consumption Season, an annual event designed to stimulate tourism and consumer spending. Running from July to mid-October, the season includes retail festivals, food expos, art fairs, and cultural performances across the city.
With tourists expected to arrive in record numbers post-COVID recovery, Easy Go is positioned as a central piece of Shanghai’s hospitality and tourism strategy for 2025 and beyond.
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Disclaimer:
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