Essential info and FAQs for visiting China

Essential travel tips, payment setup, internet access, apps, and practical advice for first-time visitors to China.

Essential Items Before Departure

Before flying to China, make sure you prepare these important travel essentials.

Passport & Visa

Make sure your passport is valid and prepare all necessary visa or entry documents before departure.

Plug Adapter

China mainly uses Type A and Type I power outlets. Bring a compatible plug adapter so you can charge your devices without problems.

Credit Cards & Cash

• International credit cards are commonly accepted at major hotels, shopping malls, and larger restaurants.
• It’s recommended to carry around 500 RMB in cash in case you don’t have internet access immediately after landing.

Cash can still be useful for taxis, convenience stores, or small local restaurants.

Essential Chinese Apps

Download these important apps before arriving in China:

• WeChat
• Alipay
• Translation apps
• Navigation apps

These apps are essential for payments, communication, transportation, and daily travel.

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# Payment Setup in China

China is one of the world’s most cashless societies, so preparing mobile payments in advance is highly recommended.

1. International Credit Cards

Large shopping centers, hotels, and international businesses usually accept Visa, Mastercard, and other international credit cards.

However, smaller stores may only accept local mobile payment methods.

2. WeChat Pay & Alipay

WeChat Pay and Alipay are the most widely used payment platforms in China.

Foreign travelers can register using international phone numbers and bank cards.

Why Alipay Is Recommended for Foreign Tourists

Alipay is generally easier for international visitors to set up and works smoothly in most payment scenarios across China.

It is highly recommended to complete registration and card linking before departure.

3. Carry Some Cash

Although mobile payments dominate daily life in China, carrying around 500 RMB in cash is still useful for emergencies or locations with limited digital payment support.

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# Phone & Internet Setup

Reliable internet access is extremely important while traveling in China.

1. Phone Compatibility

If you plan to use a physical SIM card:

• Make sure your phone is unlocked;
• Ensure your device supports Chinese SIM cards.

eSIM-compatible phones can be even more convenient for international travelers.

2. Internet Options

Common internet solutions include:

• International roaming packages;
• Chinese local SIM cards;
• eSIM services.

Choose the option that best fits your travel style and budget before departure.

3. Recommended Apps

Install useful apps with English support before arriving in China.

Translation Apps

Recommended translation apps include:

• Youdao Translate
• Baidu Translate

> Note: Google Translate may not function properly in China without a VPN connection.

Navigation Apps

Recommended map and navigation apps:

• Amap (Gaode Maps)
• Baidu Maps

These apps are much more accurate inside China compared to Google Maps.

4. Internet Restrictions in China

Internet access in China is regulated and some international services are blocked.

Commonly restricted platforms include:

• Google
• Facebook
• YouTube
• X (Twitter)

Additional websites and apps may occasionally become temporarily unavailable.

VPN Recommendation

If you rely on blocked international services, it is strongly recommended to install and configure a VPN before arriving in China.

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# Easy-to-Forget Travel Essentials

These small items are often forgotten but can greatly improve your travel experience.

Basic Medication

Bring your regular medicine with you.

Explaining symptoms in English at local pharmacies may not always be easy, and some foreign medications can be difficult to find in China.

Also check customs regulations before traveling.

Tissues & Wet Wipes

Public restrooms in China are generally free, but many may not provide toilet paper outside shopping malls or tourist areas.

Tissues and wet wipes are extremely useful during your trip.

Plug Adapter

China mainly uses Type A and Type I outlets, which may differ from your home country.

Don’t forget your adapter.

Power Bank Rules

Your power bank should:

• Have CCC (3C) certification;
• Be under 20,000mAh capacity.

Otherwise, it may not be allowed on flights.

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# Practical Information to Prepare

1. Save Addresses in Chinese

Prepare destination addresses in both:

• English;
• Chinese.

This is extremely helpful when showing addresses to taxi drivers or if maps are unavailable.

2. Check Attraction Opening Hours

Always verify attraction opening times before visiting.

Useful platforms for updated information include:

• Official WeChat accounts
• Dianping
• Xiaohongshu (RED)

Try to check the latest user posts and updates.

3. Emergency Numbers in China

Important emergency contacts:

• Police: 110
• Ambulance: 120
• Fire: 119

Emergency medical services in China are relatively affordable compared to many countries, so seek help immediately if needed.

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# Extra Helpful Tips for Traveling in China

Learn a Few Basic Chinese Phrases

Knowing a few simple Chinese phrases can make your trip much easier.

Check the Weather Before Packing

Weather conditions in China can vary significantly depending on the region and season.

Southern China especially can experience sudden weather changes, so bringing:

• An umbrella;
• Comfortable walking shoes;
• Suitable seasonal clothing