1. Travel Documents
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date.
- Visa: Citizens of 54 countries, including most of Europe, the UK, South Korea, Japan, Australia, and the UAE, can now enjoy 15-day visa-free entry to China for tourism, business, or transit. Check your eligibility before applying.
- Entry Requirements: Always verify current health and immigration rules before departure.
2. Flights and Transportation
- Book Flights Early: Especially during Chinese holidays or spring/autumn seasons.
- Domestic Travel: High-speed trains are convenient and widely available. Book online ahead of time.
- Transfers: Arrange airport pickup or confirm with your hotel.
- Helpful Apps: Install DiDi for ride-hailing and Baidu Maps or Amap for navigation.
3. Accommodation
- Registration: All foreigners must register with local authorities within 24 hours — hotels usually handle this for you.
4. Money and Payments
- Currency: Chinese Yuan (RMB).
- Cash: Bring some for smaller shops or rural areas.
- Mobile Payments: Alipay and WeChat Pay now support foreign cards — set them up before you go.
- ATMs: International cards work mostly in urban areas.
5. Connectivity
- SIM Card: Buy a Chinese SIM upon arrival at airports or convenience stores.
- VPN: Essential if you need access to Google, WhatsApp, YouTube, or Instagram — install before you enter China.
- Apps to Download: Pleco (dictionary), WeChat, translation apps, offline maps.
6. Packing Essentials
- Power Adapter: China uses Types A, C, and I plugs.
- Medication: Bring all necessary prescriptions; not all drugs are available.
- Toiletries: Some Western brands (like deodorant or tampons) may be hard to find.
- Clothing: Pack seasonally — summers are hot and humid, winters can be harsh in northern cities.
7. Health & Safety
- Travel Insurance: Highly recommended for health coverage and emergencies.
- Vaccinations: Check with your doctor for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, etc.
- Drinking Water: Stick to bottled or boiled water.
8. Cultural Etiquette
- Language: English is limited outside major cities — translation apps help a lot.
- Public Behavior: Be polite, avoid confrontation or public criticism.
- Gifts: Always offer and receive with both hands.
9. Places to Visit
- Major Cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Chengdu, Guilin, Hong Kong, Macau.
- Attractions: Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, pandas, traditional water towns, UNESCO heritage sites.
- Tickets: Book in advance for top sites, especially during holidays.
10. Emergency Numbers
- Police: 110
- Ambulance: 120
- Fire: 119
