First Time in China
A complete 10-step planning guide for first-time travelers. Do these before you arrive, and your trip will go smoothly.
The 10-Step Plan
Check Visa Requirements
China now offers visa-free travel to citizens of 50 countries for up to 30 days, including most of Europe, Oceania, and parts of Asia and the Americas. Check if your passport qualifies before applying for a visa.
- ✓ Visa-free: 30 days for 50 countries (Europe, Asia, Americas, Oceania)
- ✓ 240-hour transit visa-free: 10 days for 55 countries at 65 ports nationwide
- ✓ Tourist visa (L-visa): Apply at Chinese embassy if your country isn't visa-free
Download Essential Apps
Install these apps before you arrive. Some require setup time and some won't download once you're in China.
Essential. Chat, pay, mini programs. Download and register before arrival.
Alternative payment. Good English support. Link your card before you go.
Ride-hailing. Chinese Uber. Has English version.
Camera translation mode is a lifesaver for menus and signs.
Set Up VPN Before Departure
This is critical. Google, Gmail, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter/X are blocked in China. Install and test your VPN before you fly.
Our VPN Guide has detailed recommendations and setup instructions.
Get Connected: eSIM or SIM Card
You need internet access the moment you land — for maps, payments, messaging, and calling a DiDi.
Activate before you fly. Works immediately on landing. Use Airalo or similar.
Buy at airport. You'll need your passport. China Mobile/Unicom/Telecom.
See our eSIM Guide and SIM Card Guide for details.
Set Up Mobile Payments
China is nearly cashless. You'll use your phone to pay for everything — street food, metro, taxis, shopping.
- ✓ WeChat Pay: Link Visa/Mastercard. Limit: ~$900/transaction. Setup guide
- ✓ Alipay: Link Visa/Mastercard, or use Tour Pass pre-paid. Setup guide
- ✓ Bring a backup credit card — some hotels and international chains accept foreign cards
Book Accommodation
Not all hotels accept foreign guests. Use Booking.com or Ctrip and filter for "foreigner-friendly" properties.
- ✓ International hotel chains (Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt) — always accept foreigners
- ✓ Booking.com — reliable for foreigner-friendly hotels
- ✓ Hostels and guesthouses — check reviews from other foreign travelers first
- ⚠️ Airbnb — limited availability in China, check local regulations
Plan Your Itinerary
China is huge. Pick 2-3 cities for a first trip. Travel between cities by high-speed train (recommended) or domestic flight.
Beijing (3 days) → Xi'an (2 days) → Shanghai (2 days)
Shanghai (3) → Guilin/Yangshuo (3) → Chengdu (2) → Xi'an (2)
Pack Smart
Don't overpack, but don't forget these essentials:
Learn Key Chinese Phrases
You don't need to learn Chinese, but these few phrases will make a huge difference:
你好 (Nǐ hǎo) = Hello
谢谢 (Xiè xiè) = Thank you
对不起 (Duì bù qǐ) = Sorry
多少钱 (Duō shǎo qián) = How much?
找不到 (Zhǎo bù dào) = I can't find it
我不懂 (Wǒ bù dǒng) = I don't understand
Share Your Itinerary
Safety first. Leave a copy of your itinerary with family or a friend back home, including:
- ✓ Flight numbers and hotel names
- ✓ Dates and cities you'll be in
- ✓ Your Chinese phone number (once you get one)
- ✓ Emergency contact info: 110 (police), your country's embassy
✅ Quick Checklist
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⚠️ Important
Visa policies, payment methods, and travel regulations change frequently. Always verify with official sources (your local Chinese embassy, official government websites) before making travel arrangements.
Last updated: June 12, 2026