Visa-Free Policy
China has significantly expanded visa-free access in recent years, making it easier than ever to visit.
Check Your Eligibility
Citizens of many countries can enter China visa-free for 15 or 30 days. Transit visa-free stays of up to 240 hours (10 days) are available at major ports of entry for even more nationalities.
Registration Requirement
You must register at the local police station within 24 hours of arrival. If you stay at a hotel, they will handle this for you automatically.
Keep Your Passport Handy
Carry your passport at all times. You will need it for hotel check-ins, train tickets, and occasionally at tourist sites.
We help with all visa questions during the booking process. Not sure if you qualify for visa-free entry? Just ask us and we will check for your nationality.
Payment in China
China is nearly cashless. Understanding the payment landscape before you arrive will save you a lot of hassle.
Mobile Pay Dominates
Alipay and WeChat Pay are used everywhere, from street vendors to luxury hotels. Many places do not accept cash at all.
International Cards Welcome
Alipay now has a Tourist Mode that accepts Visa, Mastercard, and other international cards. Download and set it up before you arrive.
Carry Some Cash
While most places are cashless, some small markets, rural areas, and taxis may still prefer cash (CNY). Exchange at airports or major banks.
Our guests receive a payment setup guide before arrival, with step-by-step instructions for linking your international card to Alipay.
Getting Around
China's transportation infrastructure is world-class. Getting between and within cities is fast, affordable, and efficient.
High-Speed Rail
World's largest HSR network. Beijing to Shanghai in 4.5 hours. Comfortable, punctual, and affordable.
Metro Systems
Most major cities have excellent subways. Clean, cheap, and easy to navigate with English signage.
Ride-Hailing
DiDi (Chinese Uber) works with international phones. Easy to use and available in most cities.
Domestic Flights
Abundant and affordable for longer distances. Book through Trip.com or directly with airlines.
We arrange all in-trip transportation for our guests, including train bookings, airport transfers, and local drivers for off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Language
Mandarin Chinese is the main language. English proficiency varies, but you can navigate well with a few tools.
English Availability
Major tourist areas, international hotels, and airports have English signage and staff. Outside these zones, English is limited.
Translation Apps Are Essential
Download Google Translate with the offline Chinese language pack before arriving. It supports camera translation for menus and signs.
Signs Use Pinyin
Most signs in major cities include Pinyin (romanized Chinese), making it possible to read street names, metro stations, and directions.
All our experiences include English-speaking local guides who handle all communication, so you never feel lost in translation.
Where to Stay
China offers accommodation for every budget, from global hotel chains to unique boutique stays that immerse you in local culture.
Hotel Options
- International chains (Marriott, Hilton, IHG) available in all major cities
- Boutique hotels and courtyard guesthouses for a more authentic experience
- Budget-friendly hostels for solo travelers
Price Ranges
- Comfortable 4-star hotels: $50-80 per night
- Boutique and character stays: $80-150 per night
- Luxury international brands: $150-400+ per night
Booking Platforms
Booking.com and Trip.com both work well in China. Trip.com (Ctrip) often has better local inventory and prices.
We handpick accommodations that blend comfort with local character, from restored hutong courtyard homes in Beijing to mountain lodges near the Great Wall.
Food & Dining
Chinese cuisine is incredibly diverse. Each region has its own distinct flavors, and the food is one of the highlights of any China trip.
Regional Diversity
Sichuan is fiery and numbing, Cantonese is delicate and fresh, northern cuisine is hearty with dumplings and noodles. Every city is a new food adventure.
Dietary Needs
- Vegetarian and vegan options are expanding, especially in major cities
- Halal food is widely available (look for restaurants marked with Arabic signage)
- Allergies: communicate clearly, ideally with a translated allergy card
Street Food
A must-try experience. Busy stalls with high turnover are generally safe. Night markets are some of the best food experiences in China.
No Tipping
Tipping is NOT expected in China, not at restaurants, hotels, or for taxi rides. This applies everywhere across the country.
Our food tours take you to the spots locals love, not tourist restaurants. Think hidden dumpling shops, family-run noodle stalls, and rooftop BBQ joints.
Staying Connected
Internet access in China works differently from most countries. A little preparation goes a long way.
VPN is Essential
Google, Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook, and many Western apps are blocked in China. Download and set up a reliable VPN before you arrive.
SIM Cards & WiFi
- Tourist SIM cards are available at major airports
- eSIM options are available online before departure
- WiFi is available at most hotels, cafes, and restaurants
Essential Apps to Download
We provide a digital welcome pack with step-by-step app setup instructions, VPN recommendations, and a quick-start guide for navigating China digitally.
Safety
China is one of the safest countries in the world for tourists. Here is what you should know.
Very Low Crime
Violent crime is extremely rare. China consistently ranks among the safest countries globally. Most travelers report feeling safer than at home.
Common Sense Tips
- Watch for pickpockets in crowded tourist spots and public transport
- Be cautious of unsolicited "guides" at major tourist sites
- Keep copies of your passport stored separately from the original
Emergency Numbers
Our 24/7 support line means help is always just a message away. Every guest receives our emergency contact card with local and international support numbers.