Expert Guides

Everything You Need
to Know About China

Visa applications, internet access, payments, food, transport, safety — our local specialists share everything they wish they'd known before their first trip to China.

Essential Reading
Visa & Entry Updated January 2025

The Complete China Visa Guide for 2025

China's visa rules changed significantly in 2024–2025, with expanded visa-free access for dozens of countries. This guide covers everything: which nationalities can enter visa-free, how to apply for a tourist visa (L visa), which documents you need, processing times, and common mistakes to avoid. Written and updated by our team in Beijing.

📖 8 min read · Last updated Jan 2025
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Insider Knowledge,
Freely Shared

Written by our team of China-based specialists with decades of combined on-the-ground experience.

Travel Tips
Travel Tips Feb 2025

Best Time to Visit China: Month-by-Month Guide

When to visit Beijing, Guilin, Tibet, Shanghai and every major destination. Seasonal weather, crowd levels, festivals, and our specialist recommendations for every travel style.

📖 6 min read Read More →
Travel Tips
Travel Tips Jan 2025

How to Use the Internet in China: VPN & Apps Guide

Google, WhatsApp, Instagram and most Western apps are blocked in China. Here's exactly how to stay connected — the best VPNs, which Chinese apps you need, and our full setup checklist.

📖 5 min read Read More →
Money
Money Mar 2025

Money & Payments in China: The Foreign Visitor's Guide

WeChat Pay, Alipay, cash or card? China is going cashless fast. Here's how to pay for everything as a foreign tourist — including linking your international card to Alipay.

📖 5 min read Read More →
Transport
Transport Feb 2025

China's High-Speed Rail: The Complete Traveler's Guide

China's bullet train network is one of the wonders of the modern world. How to book tickets, which routes to take, classes of service, and tips for navigating Chinese train stations alone.

📖 7 min read Read More →
Food & Drink
Food & Drink Mar 2025

What to Eat in China: A Region-by-Region Food Guide

From Peking duck to Sichuan hotpot, dim sum to Xinjiang lamb skewers — the essential dishes to try in every region, where to find the best versions, and how to order without speaking Mandarin.

📖 9 min read Read More →
Travel Tips
Travel Tips Jan 2025

Is China Safe? Honest Safety Guide for Foreign Tourists

China is statistically one of the safest countries in the world for travelers. But there are scams to know about and areas to be aware of. Our honest, up-to-date safety guide covers everything.

📖 6 min read Read More →
Culture
Culture Feb 2025

Chinese Customs & Etiquette: What to Know Before You Go

Tipping, temple etiquette, what not to say, gift-giving customs, dining rules, and the unwritten social codes that will make your China trip smoother and more respectful.

📖 5 min read Read More →
Travel Tips
Travel Tips Mar 2025

What to Pack for China: The Complete Packing List

What to bring, what you can buy there, what's banned, and the essentials most travelers forget. Our region-by-region packing checklist for every season and travel style.

📖 4 min read Read More →
Visa & Entry
Visa & Entry Jan 2025

China Visa-Free Entry 2025: Full Country List & Rules

China expanded visa-free access to 38+ countries in 2024. Full updated list of eligible nationalities, length of stay, conditions, and how to make the most of your visa-free visit.

📖 4 min read Read More →
Need to Know Now

8 Things to Do Before You Fly

🔐
Install a VPN

Do this before you arrive — VPN websites are blocked inside China. ExpressVPN and NordVPN work reliably.

💰
Set Up Alipay

Link your international Visa or Mastercard to the Alipay Tourist Edition before you go. Cash is a backup, not a primary.

📋
Apply for Visa Early

Most nationalities need a visa. Apply at least 3–4 weeks before travel. We guide every booking through this process.

💬
Download WeChat

WeChat is how China communicates. Your guide, your hotel, and every local contact will reach you via WeChat, not WhatsApp.

🗺
Download Offline Maps

Google Maps works in China (with VPN) but Maps.me or AMAP work offline and without a VPN for navigation.

💊
Pack Your Medication

Some common medications are restricted in China. Check the customs allowed list and bring enough supply for your whole trip.

📸
Check Photography Rules

Photography is restricted in some temples, museums, and military areas. Our guides brief you before each site to avoid problems.

🌐
Get a Local SIM

A Chinese SIM card (China Mobile or China Unicom) gives you fast, cheap data. Buy at the airport on arrival — we advise on which to get.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Travel Questions

Do I need a VPN in China?

Yes, if you want to use Google, Gmail, WhatsApp, Instagram or most Western apps. China's Great Firewall blocks these services. Install a VPN before you arrive — VPN websites are also blocked inside China.

Can I use my credit card in China?

Major hotels and international restaurants accept Visa and Mastercard. However, most everyday transactions use WeChat Pay or Alipay. Foreign visitors can now link international cards to Alipay. Always carry some RMB cash as backup.

What is the best time to visit China?

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are ideal for most destinations — mild weather, clear skies, fewer crowds than summer. Tibet is best June–September. Winter is cold but excellent for crowd-free sightseeing in Beijing.

Is China safe for tourists?

China is one of the safest countries in the world for travelers. Violent crime against foreigners is extremely rare. Be aware of tourist scams in major cities — we include a full scam warning guide with every booking.

Do people speak English in China?

English is spoken in major hotels, airports, and tourist areas in big cities. Outside these areas, English is limited. Our English-speaking guides handle all communication — you will never feel lost or isolated.

Is the food safe to eat in China?

Food in China is generally very safe, especially in restaurants. Stick to busy, well-reviewed places and avoid raw street food if you have a sensitive stomach. Chinese cuisine is extraordinary — exploring it is one of the great joys of the trip.