Travel Guide for China
Everything you need to know for a smooth journey through the Middle Kingdom
Before You Arrive
Visa Requirements
Most foreign visitors need a visa. Apply at your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate. Some nationalities can get visa-free transit for 72-144 hours in select cities.
VPN Setup
Install a reliable VPN before arriving. Popular services like Google, Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp are blocked in China.
Health Declarations
Check current health requirements. Download necessary apps for health codes if required. Keep vaccination records handy.
Money & Payments
Mobile Payments
WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate. As a foreigner, you can link international cards to these apps. Download and set up before your trip.
Currency & ATMs
Chinese Yuan (RMB/CNY) is the currency. ATMs are widely available. Major cities accept international cards at hotels and some restaurants.
Getting Around
High-Speed Rail
China's HSR network is world-class. Book tickets on Trip.com, 12306 app, or at stations. Passport required for booking. Arrive 30-60 min early.
Ride Hailing
DiDi is China's Uber. Works with international numbers. English interface available. Always safer than random taxis.
Getting Online
Get a local SIM at the airport (China Mobile, China Unicom). Affordable data plans with 4G/5G coverage. Pocket WiFi also available.
Daily Life
Language Tips
English is limited outside major hotels/tourist areas. Learn basic phrases: 你好 (nǐ hǎo - hello), 谢谢 (xiè xiè - thanks), 多少钱 (duō shǎo qián - how much). Translation apps are lifesavers.
Food & Dining
China is a food paradise. Use Dianping (Chinese Yelp) for restaurant ratings. Vegetarians can say 我吃素 (wǒ chī sù). Street food is generally safe from busy vendors.
Healthcare
Major cities have international clinics. Bring common medications as brands differ. Travel insurance is highly recommended.
Safety & Etiquette
Safety
China is generally very safe. Keep valuables secure in crowded areas. Register with your embassy. Save emergency numbers: Police 110, Ambulance 120.
Quick Reference
Currency
CNY (Yuan ¥)
Language
Mandarin Chinese
Time Zone
UTC+8 (All China)
Emergency
110 (Police)
📱 Must-Have Apps in China
Download these before you arrive — many require a foreign phone number to register.
Ctrip (Trip.com)
China's largest travel platform. Book hotels, flights, trains, and tours. English interface available.
Airbnb
Works in China. Great for local home stays and unique experiences. Pay with international cards.
DiDi
China's dominant ride-hailing app. International number supported, English UI, safer than street taxis.
Amap (高德地图)
Most accurate maps in China. Better than Google Maps for local navigation. Real-time transit info.
Essential for communication and payments. Link your international card to WeChat Pay for daily purchases.
Alipay
Second major payment app. Now supports international cards for foreigners. Mini-programs for many services.
Meituan
Order food delivery, buy attraction tickets, book hotels. Dominant super-app for daily life.
12306
Official China railway booking app. Requires passport registration. Buy tickets before they sell out.
VPN (e.g. ExpressVPN)
Install BEFORE arriving. Access Google, WhatsApp, Instagram and other blocked services. Setup requires foreign connection.
Google Translate
Download Chinese offline pack before arrival. Camera translate feature is essential for menus and signs.
WeDoctor (微医)
Online doctor consultations and appointment booking at major hospitals. English doctors available.
Taobao / JD.com
China's Amazon equivalents. Huge selection, fast delivery. Pay via Alipay or WeChat Pay.