Travel Tips & Planning

Planning a trip to China is like preparing for a journey through time and technology. One moment you’re scanning a QR code to pay for street food, and the next you’re standing in a 2,000-year-old temple. With its vast geography, rich traditions, and modern infrastructure, China offers unforgettable experiences—but it also requires thoughtful preparation. To travel well in China is to blend curiosity with readiness, and respect with adventure.

Essential Planning Tips

Visa & Entry Requirements

  • Visa-Free Access: Citizens from 38 countries can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days until December 31, 2025
  • Transit Options: 144-hour and 240-hour visa-free transit policies available in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu
  • Multiple Entries: If visiting Hong Kong or Macau, ensure your visa allows re-entry into mainland China

Digital Essentials

  • VPN: Download a reliable VPN before arrival to access international websites and apps
  • Translation App: Google Translate or Pleco can help bridge language gaps—make sure it works offline
  • Mobile Payments: Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay; cash is rarely used in urban areas

Hygiene & Health

  • Toilet Paper: Public restrooms often don’t provide it—carry your own
  • Hand Sanitizer: A must-have, especially in rural areas
  • Water Safety: Tap water isn’t drinkable; rely on bottled or boiled water

Packing Smart

  • Clothing: Sizes run small—bring essentials if you’re tall or plus-sized
  • Adapters: China uses Type A, C, and I plugs; voltage is 220V
  • Weather: Pack for regional variation—humid in the south, dry in the north

Cultural Awareness Tips

  • Respect Traditions: Bowing slightly at temples, avoiding loud voices in sacred spaces, and learning basic etiquette go a long way
  • Language Basics: Learn a few Mandarin phrases like “xièxiè” (thank you) and “nǐ hǎo” (hello)
  • Dining Etiquette: Don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice—it resembles funeral rituals
  • Gift Giving: Avoid clocks or sharp objects as gifts; they carry negative symbolism

Transport & Navigation

  • High-Speed Rail: Efficient and scenic—book tickets early during holidays
  • Metro Systems: Clean, safe, and English-friendly in major cities
  • Taxi Tips: Use ride-hailing apps like Didi; cash may not be accepted
  • Domestic Flights: Affordable but subject to delays—plan buffer time

Traveling in China is a rewarding adventure when approached with preparation and openness. From navigating ancient alleyways to mastering mobile payments, each moment is a blend of old and new. With the right tips and mindset, your journey becomes not just smooth—but deeply enriching.