How do I handle payments and internet access?
Alipay/WeChat now support linking foreign cards, cash is in small supply; use international roaming online or a local SIM card registered with your passport; install map, taxi, and translation apps in advance.
Payment: Alipay and WeChat Pay support linking of major foreign cards; start with a small test payment locally. Prepare a small amount of RMB cash for night markets and remote gas stations. Internet: International roaming can be used immediately, or you can purchase a local real-name SIM card with your passport; signal coverage is good in towns and tourist areas in Xinjiang, with some blind spots in mountainous sections.
App list: Gaode or Baidu Maps, Didi Taxi, 12306 for ticket booking, translation software. Xinjiang uses Beijing Time uniformly, with local schedules roughly two hours later.