China Travel Guide

 

The continuous improvement of China's visa-free policy, coupled with a number of measures to enhance international exchanges, has significantly increased the number of foreign tourists coming to China. China has reached agreements or arrangements with more than 40 countries to simplify visa procedures, and achieved comprehensive visa exemption with more than 20 countries.

Policy

Which countries are eligible for 240-hour visa-free policy?

He/she must be a citizen of one of the countries enjoying the 240-hour visa-free transit concession (see table below for a list of countries enjoying this concession).

List of 240-hour transit visa-free countries

European countries (40)

Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, Russia, United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Rome Nigeria, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Belarus, Norway

Americas (6)

United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile

Oceania Countries (2)

Australia, New Zealand

Asian Countries (6)

South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, UAE, Qatar


How can I obtain a China tourist visa if I am temporarily not eligible for the visa waiver policy?

The Tourist Visa (L Visa) is issued to those who intend to travel to China as a tourist. Application: Basic materials Supporting materials Application procedures, processing times and fees Special reminders 👉 If you are planning to apply for a China visa, please click on the China Online Visa Application (COVA) China Visa Application (COVA)

What are the ports of entry?

China Transit visa-free port (240 hours (10 days))

240 hours (10 days) transit visa-free
Beijing-tianjin-hebei region
  • Airport:
    • Beijing Capital International Airport
    • Beijing Daxing International Airport
    • Tianjin Binhai International Airport
    • Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport
  • Railway port:
    • Beijing West Railway Station
  • Harbor:
    • Tianjin International cruise home port
    • Qinhuangdao Port
Shanghai - Jiangsu - Zhejiang region
  • Airport:
    • Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport
    • Shanghai Pudong International Airport
    • Nanjing Lukou International Airport
    • Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport
    • Ningbo Lishe International Airport
    • Yangzhou Taizhou International Airport
    • Sunan Shuofang International Airport
    • Wenzhou Longwan International Airport
    • Yiwu Airport
  • Railway port:
    • Shanghai railway station entry-exit port
  • Harbor:
    • Port of Shanghai
    • Lianyungang Port
    • Wenzhou Port
    • Zhoushan Port
Guangdong Province
  • Airport:
    • Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
    • Shenzhen Baoan International Airport
    • Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport
  • Harbor:
    • Nansha Port
    • Shekou Port
辽宁
  • Airport:
    • Shenyang Taoxian International Airport
    • Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport
  • Port:
    • Dalian Port
Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region
  • Airports: 
    • Nanning Wuxu International Airport
    • Beihai Fucheng International Airport
    • Guilin Liangjiang International Airport
  • Port:
    • Beihai Haigang Port
Heilongjiang Province
  • Airport: Harbin Taiping International Airport
Shandong Province
  • Airports: 
    • Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport
    • Jinan Yaoqiang International Airport
    • Yantai Penglai International Airport
    • Weihai Dashuipo International Airport
  • Port: Port of Qingdao
Sichuan Province
  • Airports: 
    • Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport
    • Chengdu Tianfu International Airport
Guizhou Province
  • Airport: Longdongbao International Airport
Shanxi Province
  • Airport: Taiyuan Wusu International Airport
Jiangxi Province
  • Airport:Nanchang Changbei International Airport
Fujian Province
  • Airports:
    • Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport
    • Fuzhou Changle International Airport
    • Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport
    • Wuyishan Airport
  • Port: Port of Xiamen
Yunnan Province
  • Airports:
    • Kunming Changshui International Airport
    • Lijiang Sanyi International Airport
  • Railway Port: Exit-Entry Port of Mohan
Hubei Province
  • Airport: Wuhan Tianhe International Airport
Chongqing Municipality
  • Airport: Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport
Shanxi Province
  • Airport: Xi'an Xianyang International Airport
Anhui Province
  • Airports:
    • Heifei Xinqiao International Airport
    • Huangshan tunxi International Airport
Hunan Province
  • Airports:
    • Changsha Huanghua International Airport
    • Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport
HaiNan Province
  • Airports:
    • Sanya Fenghuang International Airport
    • Haikou Meilan International Airport
Henan Province
  • Airport: Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport

What should I pay attention to if I hold a connecting ticket?

He/She must hold a valid international travel document (valid for no less than three months) that can prove his/her nationality and identity, and meet the conditions for entering a third country/region; He/She must hold a connecting ticket to a third country/region with a confirmed date and seat for departure within 240 hours or relevant certificates as per the amount of time applied for the visa-free transit, fill out the Arrival Card for Temporary Entry Foreigners, and accept inquiries from the entry-exit border inspection authority.

How to calculate the stay time under the 240-hour visa-free policy?

The calculation does not consider the actual time of arrival but starts counting from midnight the next day. Ensure your onward flight or travel to a third country or region is scheduled before the end of the 144-hour period. For Example: Arrival: You arrive in Beijing at 2:00 PM on November 20th. Start of 240-hour period: The clock starts at 12:00 AM on November 21st. End of 240-hour period: You must leave by 11:59 PM on November 30th.

What items are restricted from being brought into the country?

  1. Weapons and Ammunition
  2. Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances
  3. Biological and Infectious Materials
  4. Animal and Plant Products
  5. Other Prohibited Items

How to Get Your Chinese Visa Renewed？

After entering China, foreigners should apply for a visa renewal at the Exit & Entry Administration Office of Public Security Bureau (at county level and above), if you meet one of these 4 circumstances: ① change the purpose of visiting and stay; ② issued a new passport (former passport will expire soon, or visa pages have been used up); ③ add companions after entry; ④ group tourists need to stay in China separately. If you fail to renew your China Visa, your current visa will become invalid, requiring you to exit, leave China, and return home. Bear in mind that illegal stay would be punished. When applying for a renewal of your China Visa, all foreign applicants have to submit the required documents, accept inquiry and follow the basic application processes.The authority will decide whether to issue a new Chinese Visa within 7 days from the date of acceptance.

What are the basic requirements of China Visa Renewal?

•Your valid passport (or valid international travel documents) and Chinese Visa;

•A completed Visa/Stay Permit/Residence Permit Application Form 《外国人签证证件申请表》;

•You can directly fill in a paper form at the office of the local police station or PSB, or download a Word/PDF version from official website and complete it.

•A recent 2-inches photo which was taken in the last 6 months, a full face, bareheaded;

•A completed Registration Form of Temporary Residence for Visitors;

•Other documents supporting your stay in China.

Payment

What are the commonly used payment methods in China?

Bank card, mobile payment, cash, bank account, and e-CNY.

How to use electronic mobile payment?

You can enjoy convenient payment services with just a mobile phone. Mobile payment services such as Weixin Pay, Alipay and UnionPay are available. For better payment experiences, no lD information is required for transactions under a certain amount.

Weixin Pay

Alipay

UnionPay

Tour Card

E-CNY

How to exchange currency in China?

(1) Overseas visitors to China can exchange foreign currencies for RMB cash in advance in relevant countries or regions before bringing it into China (each visitor is allowed to take up to RMB20,000 in cash in or out of the country).

(2) Overseas visitors to China can exchange foreign currencies for RMB cash at commercial bank branches, money changers, and self-service currency exchange machines at international airports, land ports, ports, and other entry ports, or withdraw RMB cash using international bank cards at ATMs.

Cash

You can withdraw RMB cash from ATMs that accept international bank cards at the port of entry, where you can also exchange other currencies for RMB through exchange service providers or self-service exchange machines. In downtown areas, you can still get RMB cash via these methods.

Authorized currency exchanges, some hotels, bank branches and currency exchange kiosks also provide currency exchange services. Usually, there is an eye-catching “exchange” sign on display so you may find them easily.

Kindly note that you can convert your remaining RMB cash back to your own currency or other major currencies in downtown areas or at the port of exit with the help of currency exchange service providers.

Bank Account

You can open a bank account with your passport or other valid IDs at any nearby bank outlet, such as the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China(ICBC), the Agricultural Bank of China (ABC), the Bank of China (BOC), the China Construction Bank(CCB), and the Bank of Communications (BOCOM). Please consult the staff at the bank outlet or visit their official websites for more information.

With the account, you can enjoy a variety of financial services (such as deposit and withdrawal of both RMB and foreign currencies, foreign currency purchase and sale, domestic transfer and crossborder remittance, foreign currency exchange, and making payment).

Do you need to pay for tips and taxes separately?

No Tips

Tipping is not expected in China, as most services include the cost in your bill. This practice keeps transactions simple and predictable. In restaurants, taxis, and hotels, you won't need to pay more than what your bill states. Instead of a tip, a polite thank you or a smile is greatly appreciated. This no-tipping culture helps you manage expenses and avoid social faux pas while respecting local customs.

Taxes

Whether you need to pay taxes when coming to China depends on your specific circumstances.

If you obtain income in China and meet the tax payment conditions stipulated by Chinese tax laws, you need to pay taxes. For example, if you obtain wage and salary income, labor remuneration income, remuneration for contributions, income from royalties, etc. while working in China, you generally need to pay personal income tax.

For individuals without a domicile in China and not residing in China, or individuals without a domicile but residing in China for less than one year, income obtained from within China shall be subject to personal income tax in accordance with this law.

If you are only on short-term tourism, visits, etc., and do not obtain taxable income, you usually do not need to pay taxes.

Can foreigners get tax refunds when shopping in China?

Eligible people for tax refund

•Foreign tourists and those from the Hong Kong SAR, Macao SAR and Taiwan who have stayed on the Chinese mainland for less than 183 consecutive days.

Tax refund requirements

• Goods valued over RMB500 purchased by a foreign tourist on the same day in one designated duty freestore.

• The goods must be unopened and unused.

• With the day of departure less than 90 days from theday of purchase.

• The goods must be carried by the foreign tourist or checked with the luggage.

Tax refund rate

11 % for the goods subject to a tax rate of 13%, 8% for goods subject to a tax rate of 9%.

Goods of tax refund

According to the announcement issued by the GeneralAdministration of Customs of China, goods of tax refund referto the personal articles purchased by foreign tourists atdesignated stores in line with the requirements for taxrefund, excluding items on the List of the People's Republic of China of Articles Prohibited from lmport and Export and the List of the People's Republic of China of Articles Restrict-ed from lmport and Export.

Application Form of Departure Tax Refund

Tourists who have purchased goods eligible for departure tax refund at designated stores need to claim the Application Form of Departure Tax Refund at the stores with valid lD orvalue added tax (VAT)invoices.

※Valid lD

Valid lD refers to passports that mark or can collect the last entry date of overseas passengers, Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents, Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents, etc.

Customs verification

Passengers need to take valid personal lD the purchased goods, Application Form of Departure Tax Refund and the VAT invoices of the purchased goods to the China Customs for verification.

Departure Tax Refund

Passengers should take valid personal lD, the verified Application Form of Departure Tax Refund and the VAT invoices ofthe purchased goods for tax refund in the tax refund agencies at the airport.

Tips

• The currency used for tax refund is RMB.

• Tax is refunded in RMB in cash or via bank transfer.

If the refund amount does not exceed RMB10,000, the tourist can choose cash refund or bank transfer.

If the amount exceeds RMB10,000, the refund agency shall transfer the money to the buyer's bank account.

Is it Convenient to Use Foreign Bank Cards to Pay in China?

Steps to Use Foreign Bank Cards with Mobile Payment Apps

  1. Download and install WeChat or Alipay apps, and follow the instructions to register an account using a foreign or Chinese mobile phone number.
  2. Bind the app with international bank cards (bearing Mastercard, Visa, JCB, Diners Club, or Discover logos) or Chinese bank cards (with the UnionPay logo).
  3. Use the app to:
    • Scan the collection QR code for payment.
    • Display your payment QR code for others to scan.

Notes for Binding International Bank Cards

  1. Authorization from the Issuing Bank

    • When binding an international bank card to Alipay or WeChat, authorization from the foreign issuing bank is required.
    • Some issuing banks may reject the request due to system compatibility issues. If this occurs, contact the issuing bank’s customer service center or use a Chinese bank card instead.

  2. Service Fees for QR Code Payments

    • No additional service fee is required for transactions up to RMB200.
    • A service fee of 3% of the transaction amount applies to payments exceeding RMB200.

  3. Transaction Limits

    • Annual limit: USD50,000.
    • Single transaction limit: USD5,000.
    • Consider your specific use cases before relying on mobile payments with a bound international bank card.

Accommodation

Guide to Choosing the Perfect Hotel in China

When planning a trip to China, selecting the right hotel is one of the most crucial decisions. With thousands of options, it can be overwhelming to find a hotel that fits your preferences, budget, and comfort level. This guide provides essential tips and insights to help you make an informed decision.

💭 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hotel

  • Book your hotel room before visiting China using a trustworthy online booking platform or the official website of your preferred hotel brand.
  • Consider your itinerary, budget, and preferences when choosing a hotel and room type.
  • Ensure the hotel is authorized to receive international visitors by reading website instructions or contacting the hotel.

💰 Hotel Rates

  • Hotel prices vary by quality, location, and booking time:

    • Budget-friendly options (under three stars): USD 30–50 per night.
    • Three-star hotels: USD 50–80 per night.
    • Luxury hotels (four to five stars): USD 80–200+ per night.

  • Peak travel season (April–October): Higher rates due to increased demand.

  • Slack season (November–March): Lower rates except for Chinese New Year (January/February).

  • In major cities, average room rates include:

    • Beijing: USD 200
    • Shanghai: USD 180
    • Xi’an: USD 120

📋 Booking Options and Restrictions for Foreign Guests

  • Not all hotels in China are licensed to accommodate foreign guests.
  • Confirm the hotel's ability to host international travelers before booking.

🛄 Cancellation and Refund Policies

  • Check the hotel’s cancellation and refund policies before booking.
  • Flexible policies may suit travelers with uncertain plans, while stricter policies may not allow for changes.

🔖 Hotel Facilities and Amenities

  • Amenities to look for: air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, minibar, kettle, toiletries, hairdryer, and hot showers.
  • Specific needs (e.g., non-smoking rooms, accessibility features) should be confirmed with the hotel.
  • China uses a 220-volt, 50-Hz power supply; bring an adapter for 110-volt appliances.

🚖 Additional Services and Features

  • Look for extra services like airport/train station transportation, concierge support, on-site dining, and laundry facilities.
  • Verify availability for specific needs, such as business centers or childcare services.

👛 Payment Methods

  • Hotels accept cash (RMB), bank cards, WeChat, and Alipay.
  • Foreign travelers should confirm if international cards like Mastercard or Visa are accepted.
  • Some hotels also accept Apple Pay or PayPal; inquire in advance.
  • No tipping required: Tipping is not a customary practice in China.

🧑🏻‍💻 Hotel Reservations

  • Reserve a hotel via online platforms like Trip.com, by phone, or through a travel consultant.
  • Online bookings are convenient but may encounter language barriers; travel consultants can help.
  • Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.

🧑🏻‍💻 Checking In at the Hotel

  • Present your passport, confirm your reservation, and complete a registration form at check-in.
  • The hotel will then provide your room key.

🧳 Checking Out of the Hotel

  • Allow extra time for check-out, as staff may inspect the room for damages or missing items.
  • Return the room key and collect your deposit receipt (if applicable).
  • Inform staff of any assistance required for luggage storage or transportation.

By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay in China!

Transportation System

Transportation Tips for International Travelers in China

🗺 Commonly Used Route Query and Translation Apps

  • Maps: Baidu Map, Amap
  • Translation: Baidu Translate, Youdao

🚗 Can Foreigners Rent a Car and Drive by Themselves in China?

International travelers often use ride-hailing services via WeChat, Alipay, or the Didi-Greater China APP:

  1. WeChat:
    • Open the app, click on Me → Services → Mobility or Ride Hailing.
    • Enter the pickup and destination locations to book a ride.
  2. Alipay:
    • Open the app, click on Transport → Taxi.
    • Enter the pickup and destination locations to book a ride.
  3. Didi-Greater China APP:
    • Register with a foreign phone number and international credit card.
    • Select services like Express, Taxi, Premier, or Luxe, then confirm your booking.

🚄 Booking Long-Distance Transportation

🚅 Train / High-Speed Rail
Ticket Purchase
  • Valid identification documents required for purchasing tickets:
    • Passport
    • Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card
    • Foreigner's exit-entry permit
    • Other approved documents
  • Booking channels:
    • Online: Use the 12306 website, 12306 APP, or booking hotline.
    • Railway stations: Buy tickets at ticket offices or self-service machines.
Identity Verification
  • Complete verification on the 12306 website/APP by submitting personal details or uploading passport information. Alternatively, visit a railway station for manual verification.
Payment Options
  • Online: Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay.
  • Offline: Cash, Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay at railway stations.
Ticket Changes and Refunds
  • Tickets can be modified or canceled via the 12306 website/APP or at railway stations. Service fees may apply.
For More Information
✈️ Airplane
Booking Options
  • Online via airline’s official app, WeChat mini programs, or third-party platforms.
  • At the airport ticket counters.
Payment Options
  • Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay, or cash (offline purchases).
Ticket Changes and Refunds
  • Modifications or cancellations can be done online or at the airport following the airline’s policies.

🚍 Recommended Modes of Short-Distance Transportation

🚇 Metro
  • Available in 55 cities across China.
  • Payment options:
    1. Single tickets from self-service machines or ticket counters.
    2. Metro pass applications at metro stations using your passport.
    3. Use WeChat/Alipay:
      • Open Alipay → Transport → City → Obtain a QR code for metro access after identity verification.
🚌 Bus
  • Payment options:
    1. Cash (exact change in RMB required).
    2. Bus cards, purchased at bus company outlets.
    3. Alipay: Open the app, go to Transport → City, and get a QR code for public transport.
🚕 Online Ride-Hailing Services
  • Available via WeChat, Alipay, or Didi-Greater China APP (supports foreign phone numbers and international cards).

🚲 Shared Bicycles (Didi Bike)

  1. Open the Didi APP, tap Bike, and scan the QR code on a bike to unlock it.
  2. End your ride by parking the bike in designated lots and locking it. Payment is automatically processed through the app.

Ⓜ️ Using Public Transportation Cards

  • Apply for metro passes in 55 cities at metro stations.
  • Use WeChat/Alipay to generate QR codes for metro entry.

Scenic spots

Transportation Tips for International Travelers in China

🗺 Commonly Used Route Query and Translation Apps

  • Maps: Baidu Map, Amap
  • Translation: Baidu Translate, Youdao

🚗 Can Foreigners Rent a Car and Drive by Themselves in China?

International travelers often use ride-hailing services via WeChat, Alipay, or the Didi-Greater China APP:

  1. WeChat:
    • Open the app, click on Me → Services → Mobility or Ride Hailing.
    • Enter the pickup and destination locations to book a ride.
  2. Alipay:
    • Open the app, click on Transport → Taxi.
    • Enter the pickup and destination locations to book a ride.
  3. Didi-Greater China APP:
    • Register with a foreign phone number and international credit card.
    • Select services like Express, Taxi, Premier, or Luxe, then confirm your booking.

🚄 Booking Long-Distance Transportation

🚅 Train / High-Speed Rail
Ticket Purchase
  • Valid identification documents required for purchasing tickets:
    • Passport
    • Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card
    • Foreigner's exit-entry permit
    • Other approved documents
  • Booking channels:
    • Online: Use the 12306 website, 12306 APP, or booking hotline.
    • Railway stations: Buy tickets at ticket offices or self-service machines.
Identity Verification
  • Complete verification on the 12306 website/APP by submitting personal details or uploading passport information. Alternatively, visit a railway station for manual verification.
Payment Options
  • Online: Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay.
  • Offline: Cash, Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay at railway stations.
Ticket Changes and Refunds
  • Tickets can be modified or canceled via the 12306 website/APP or at railway stations. Service fees may apply.
For More Information
✈️ Airplane
Booking Options
  • Online via airline’s official app, WeChat mini programs, or third-party platforms.
  • At the airport ticket counters.
Payment Options
  • Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay, or cash (offline purchases).
Ticket Changes and Refunds
  • Modifications or cancellations can be done online or at the airport following the airline’s policies.

🚍 Recommended Modes of Short-Distance Transportation

🚇 Metro
  • Available in 55 cities across China.
  • Payment options:
    1. Single tickets from self-service machines or ticket counters.
    2. Metro pass applications at metro stations using your passport.
    3. Use WeChat/Alipay:
      • Open Alipay → Transport → City → Obtain a QR code for metro access after identity verification.
🚌 Bus
  • Payment options:
    1. Cash (exact change in RMB required).
    2. Bus cards, purchased at bus company outlets.
    3. Alipay: Open the app, go to Transport → City, and get a QR code for public transport.
🚕 Online Ride-Hailing Services
  • Available via WeChat, Alipay, or Didi-Greater China APP (supports foreign phone numbers and international cards).

🚲 Shared Bicycles (Didi Bike)

  1. Open the Didi APP, tap Bike, and scan the QR code on a bike to unlock it.
  2. End your ride by parking the bike in designated lots and locking it. Payment is automatically processed through the app.

Ⓜ️ Using Public Transportation Cards

  • Apply for metro passes in 55 cities at metro stations.
  • Use WeChat/Alipay to generate QR codes for metro entry.

Others

🗣️ Language

Chinese people are generally helpful, but not everyone speaks English. Learning a few simple Chinese phrases can go a long way:

  • "Ni hao" (你好): Hello
  • "Zai na li" (在哪里): Where is it
  • "Xie xie" (谢谢): Thank you

Independent travelers are strongly advised to use a reliable Chinese translation app. Show local people the Chinese translation when needed.  

📶 Free Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is widely available in China, and you can find free Wi-Fi in most places.   

  • city
  • Public area
  • groggery
  • Dining room

Use a Wi-Fi map or search for "Wi-Fi near me" on your device to locate hotspots.  

🔌 Power plugs/sockets in China

  • China: 220 volts, 50 Hz AC
  • Taiwan: 110 volts, 60 Hz AC

Make sure your electronic device is compatible or uses a power adapter.

👕 Respect local culture

China has 56 ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions, cultures and customs. 

  • Respect their culture and religion. 
  • When visiting the temple:
    • Wear long pants.
    • Avoid talking loudly or joking.

Experiencing these cultures firsthand will make your trip more meaningful.

🔄 Avoid public holidays

  • Best season to visit:

    • Spring: Warm, but more rainfall.
    • Autumn: Warm and dry.

  • Public Holidays:
    Travel costs increase during this period, and flights, train tickets and hotel rooms can be sold out due to high demand.

👛 Tipping is not required

Chinese Mainland usually doesn't need tipping：

  • Hotels and restaurants: Tipping is not required.
  • Excellent service: You can give a tip to show your appreciation.
  • Accompanied tour: If the guide provides excellent service, you may choose to pay a tip.

🗣️ social media behavior

Foreigners Posting comments on Chinese social media platforms must comply with Chinese laws and regulations.  

🚫 Photography restrictions

Foreigners are not allowed to photograph military installations, including:   

  • unit
  • site
  • Facilities used for military purposes.

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