Practical advice and insider knowledge to help you navigate China like a local. From money to communication, we've got you covered.
Alipay and WeChat Pay are essential. Link your foreign card or open a Chinese bank account for full functionality.
Always carry some cash. Smaller cities and rural areas may not accept cards or mobile payments.
Exchange at banks or the airport. Avoid street vendors. Banks offer the best rates with proper identification.
When linking international cards to Alipay or WeChat Pay, be aware of these transaction limits:
Alternatives when exceeding limits:
Get a local SIM at the airport. China Unicom, China Mobile, and China Telecom offer tourist packages with data. Requires passport registration.
WhatsApp, Google, and social media are blocked. Install a reliable VPN before arriving in China.
Download Pleco for Chinese-English translation and Google Translate with offline Chinese packs.
VPNs that work well in China are subject to frequent blocking. We recommend having multiple options:
Pro Tips:
Book via the official 12306 app or at stations. Bring your passport for boarding. Classes and routes available nationwide.
Major airlines offer competitive prices. Book early for popular routes like Beijing-Shanghai or Shanghai-Chengdu.
Major cities have extensive metro networks. Use Alipay or single-ride tickets. English signage is common in large cities.
Didi (Chinese Uber) works with Alipay/WeChat. Show destination address in Chinese characters to taxi drivers.
A slight bow or nod is appropriate. Handshakes are common in business settings. Avoid hugging or kissing on cheeks.
Wait to be seated. Don't stick chopsticks upright in rice. Tipping is not expected but becoming more common in tourist areas.
Remove shoes at the door. Bring a small gift like fruit or sweets. Accept tea when offered as a sign of respect.
China is very safe for travelers. Violent crime is rare. Use normal urban precautions with belongings.
International clinics available in major cities. Carry basic medications. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Hotels register guests with police automatically. If staying with friends, temporary residence permits may be required.
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