China Travel FAQ & Tips

Buy a local SIM at the airport from China Unicom, China Mobile, or China Telecom — bring your passport. Prices range from ¥69–199 for 7–30 day plans with 10–50GB data. Alternatively, purchase an eSIM before arrival (recommended: Airalo, eSIM.net) for instant connectivity.

Yes. Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and most Western apps are blocked. Download and install a VPN BEFORE arriving — popular options are ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Astrill. Monthly plans cost $5–12 USD.

Most hotels, cafes (Starbucks, McDonald's), and airports offer free WiFi. However, WiFi often requires Chinese phone number verification. Always connect your VPN immediately when using any network.

Download the Alipay app, register with your international phone number, and link your Visa/Mastercard. Since 2023, foreigners can use Alipay without a Chinese bank account. Same process applies to WeChat Pay under "Me → Pay → Add foreign card".

International cards work at hotels, high-end restaurants, and large retailers. However, most small vendors, street food stalls, and local shops only accept Alipay or WeChat Pay. Always carry ¥200–500 cash as backup.

It's better to exchange at the airport Bank of China ATM — they offer better rates than exchange counters. ATMs accept international cards and dispense RMB directly. Avoid exchanging large amounts at hotels or airport exchange desks.

Download the Didi app BEFORE arriving. You'll need a Chinese phone number to verify your account — use your hotel's phone or SIM. Didi supports international credit cards. For airport trips, the Didi Express train is often faster and cheaper.

Book via the 12306 app (available in English) or the trip.com app. Foreign passports are accepted for online booking. Alternatively, buy tickets at the station with your passport — counter staff speak basic English during peak hours.

Yes — foreign licenses are not accepted. You'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) plus your home license, or take a Chinese driving test. For most travelers, public transport + Didi is the better option.

Most tourists need an L Visa (Tourist Visa). You'll need your passport (valid 6+ months), completed application form, passport photo, and proof of travel. Visa fees range $30–140 USD depending on nationality. Processing takes 4–5 business days.

No — China does not offer visa-on-arrival for most nationalities. You must apply at a Chinese embassy or consulate before traveling. Some countries have transit visa exemptions (72 hours in Shanghai, etc.), but this requires pre-planning.

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned exit date from China, with at least one blank page. Check the Chinese embassy website for your specific nationality requirements.

Use Meituan (美团) or Eleme (饿了么) food delivery apps — they have English interfaces. At restaurants, point to photos on the menu, use Google Translate camera mode, or show the Chinese dish name we provide on TravelerLocal.ai.

Peking Duck (北京烤鸭) in Beijing, Xiaolongbao (小笼包) in Shanghai, Mapo Tofu and Hot Pot (火锅) in Chengdu, Biangbiang Noodles (油泼面) in Xi'an, Dim Sum (点心) in Guangzhou, and Hairy Crab in Yangzhou. Our food guide covers 150+ dishes.

Yes — Booking.com, Agoda, Trip.com, and most international hotel chains accept foreign credit cards. Budget hostels and local hotels may require Alipay/WeChat Pay. Always confirm payment method before booking.

Most hotels accept foreign guests, but some smaller guesthouses in rural areas may not. All hotels require passport registration — you'll need to present your passport at check-in. This is mandatory and not a cause for concern.

🚔 110 — Police | 🚑 120 — Ambulance | 🚒 119 — Fire | 🚗 122 — Traffic accident | 📞 12301 — Tourist Hotline (English available). Save these in your phone before arrival.

TravelerLocal.ai provides embassy contact information for major cities. In an emergency, contact your embassy first — they can assist with lost passports, legal issues, and evacuation. Most embassies have 24/7 emergency hotlines.