Answers, before you ask
Every question we have answered on this site, in one place: 184 of them, grouped by the thing you are trying to do. Each points to the guide that goes further.
184 questions in 11 sections
Entry & visas
What you need at the border, and the registration nobody mentions. 12 questions.
Can I register online instead of going to a police station?
Yes, nationwide since 21 September 2026, through the National Immigration Administration platform: the services website at s. nia. gov. cn, the NIA 12367 app, or the NIA 12367 WeChat or Alipay mini program. …
RegistrationDo I need to register if I am staying at a friend's flat?
Yes. Any stay outside a hotel must be registered with the public security organ for that address within 24 hours after check-in — friends' homes, rented flats, student and company dormitories and serviced apartments all count. …
RegistrationI am staying in a hotel. Do I need to do anything?
No. Hotels register every guest under the hotel industry public security rules and report the record to the local public security organ. You only need to present a valid identification document, and the hotel prints the accommodation registration form for you. …
RegistrationI left China and came back to the same address. Do I register again?
Not always. If you live in a property that you or your spouse owns in China, returning after travel inside or outside China does not require a new registration. …
RegistrationWhat do I get back after registering, and do I need the paper form?
Online registration leaves a record you can view and show. The national system accepts the electronic accommodation registration record when you apply for visa or residence permit services or during an inspection, so no paper form is needed. …
RegistrationWhat happens if I do not register?
Under Article 76 of the Exit and Entry Administration Law, failing to register attracts a warning, and a fine of up to CNY 2,000 may also be imposed. …
RegistrationWhich system should I use, the national one or the Shanghai one?
Foreign nationals in Shanghai may use either. The Online Accommodation Registration for International Visitors system applies nationwide; the Self-service Accommodation Registration for Overseas Personnel system applies in Shanghai only. …
RegistrationWho should file it — me or my host?
Either can be the person filing, and the host may be a Chinese citizen or a foreigner. The first registration at an address is made with the host's help, because the host knows the property details and the address has to be entered exactly. …
RegistrationDo I need a visa to visit China?
Ordinary-passport holders from 79 countries can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism, business or family visits - 50 under China's unilateral policy (including the UK, most EU member states, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Japan) and 29 under mutual agreements (including Singapore and Malaysia). …
Visa CheckerDo US citizens need a visa for China?
Yes. US ordinary-passport holders are not covered by China's visa-free entry policy and need a visa for tourism or business visits. However, US passport holders are eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit policy when travelling through China to a third country.
Visa CheckerHow long can I stay in China without a visa?
Up to 30 days on ordinary passports from the 79 visa-free countries, or up to 240 hours (10 days) under the transit policy. Stays for work, formal study or news reporting are never covered by visa-free entry.
Visa CheckerWhat is China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy?
Passport holders from 57 countries can enter China without a visa for up to 240 hours (10 days) when transiting to a third country or region. …
Visa CheckerPlanning a trip
Timing, packing, itineraries, and the weeks to avoid. 10 questions.
Do I need to book the Forbidden City in advance?
Yes, and it cannot be stressed enough. Forbidden City tickets cost 60 RMB in high season but must be reserved online through the official WeChat mini-programme up to seven days ahead, by passport name. There are no same-day tickets. Book the moment your dates are fixed.
Beijing in 3 DaysIs 3 days in Beijing enough?
Three days covers the essentials with one deliberate sacrifice: the Forbidden City, a temple or two and the hutongs on days one and two, and the Great Wall on day three. You will miss the Summer Palace unless you swap something out. …
Beijing in 3 DaysWhat is the best time to visit Beijing?
October is the classic window: clear skies, 10-20 degrees and the autumn colour at the Great Wall and the Summer Palace. April and May are good too, though dust storms occasionally arrive in spring. …
Beijing in 3 DaysCan I drink tap water in China?
No. Drink bottled or boiled water. Hotels provide bottled water daily. A reusable water bottle with a built-in filter is recommended.
PackingWhat documents do I need to enter China?
A passport valid for the full intended stay and the appropriate visa, unless you qualify for a current visa-free policy. Some visa applications and carriers may require additional passport validity. Keep accommodation, transport and invitation details available as supporting evidence.
PackingWhat medications should I bring to China?
Bring prescription medication in original packaging with a doctor's note. Pack a basic travel kit: pain reliever, anti-diarrhoea, antihistamine, cold medicine, and motion sickness tablets.
PackingWhat voltage and plug type does China use?
China uses 220V, 50Hz with Type A (two flat pins) and Type I (three flat pins) sockets. Most modern device chargers are dual-voltage - check the label.
PackingDo I need cash in Shanghai?
No, but carry some. Alipay and WeChat Pay cover everything from street stalls to museums. Cash is still legal tender and useful as a backup: keep ¥200-300 in small notes for the occasional vendor who does not take mobile payment. …
Shanghai in 3 DaysHow many days do you need in Shanghai?
Three full days is the honest minimum for a first visit: one day for the old city and the Bund, one for the French Concession and the West Bund museums, and one for a water-town or Suzhou day trip. …
Shanghai in 3 DaysIs Suzhou worth a day trip from Shanghai?
Yes. Suzhou is 30 minutes from Shanghai by high-speed rail and offers classical Chinese gardens, canals and an old town that has been refined for over a thousand years. …
Shanghai in 3 DaysMoney & payments
Getting a foreign card to work, and getting the tax back. 22 questions.
Can I use a foreign bank card with WeChat Pay?
Yes. Both WeChat Pay and Alipay support international Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, Discover and Diners Club cards. There is roughly a 3% transaction fee per payment. You do not need a Chinese bank account or local phone number.
PaymentsCan I use my foreign card in China?
Cash is still accepted, but mobile payments are the default in China. …
PaymentsDo I need a Chinese phone number to set up mobile payments?
No. Both WeChat Pay and Alipay allow registration with international phone numbers. Alipay even has a dedicated International mode. However, set up both apps before you leave home while you still have access to your home SMS for verification codes.
PaymentsDo I need both WeChat Pay and Alipay?
Yes, having both is the safest bet. WeChat Pay and Alipay together cover over 90% of all mobile payments in China and some smaller merchants only accept one. Both now support foreign Visa, Mastercard, Amex, JCB, Discover and Diners Club cards without a Chinese bank account.
PaymentsDoes Apple Pay or Google Pay work in China?
Almost nowhere. QR code payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate. NFC payments from Apple Pay and Google Pay are not supported at the vast majority of merchants. Samsung Pay is similarly not accepted.
PaymentsHow do I pay with a QR code in China?
There are two methods. Method A: you scan the merchant's QR code, enter the amount, confirm with PIN. Method B: you show your payment QR code for the merchant to scan - no amount entry needed, faster at supermarkets and convenience stores.
PaymentsWeChat Pay vs Alipay - which is better for foreign travellers?
Start with Alipay if you prefer a full English interface and travel perks. Start with WeChat Pay if you already use WeChat for messaging and want the most universal merchant acceptance. The ideal approach is to install both.
PaymentsWhat if my passport verification fails?
Try retaking the passport photo in daylight (blurry or dim scans are the most common cause), make sure the name matches your card exactly including middle names, switch to WiFi instead of mobile data, and complete the verification before arriving in China if possible. …
PaymentsCan I claim the refund at a different airport from where I shopped?
Yes. Standard claims can be settled at any port that has a refund agency, and since 1 September 2026 instant refunds are accepted nationwide as well, so shopping in Shanghai and flying out of Beijing is no longer a problem.
Tax RefundDo I have to show the goods to customs?
Yes. The items must be unused and must leave China with you, carried or checked. Since July 2026 claims under 10,000 yuan may be cleared by sampling rather than individual inspection, but you still have to be able to produce them.
Tax RefundHow long do I have to leave the country after shopping?
Ninety days from the purchase date for a standard refund, or 28 days if you took the instant refund in the shop. The clock runs to your departure date, not to the end of your visa.
Tax RefundHow much is the refund worth in practice?
The rate is 11 per cent for goods at 13 per cent VAT and 8 per cent for goods at 9 per cent VAT, minus a handling fee that is commonly around 2 per cent of the invoice. …
Tax RefundIs the refund paid in cash?
Up to 20,000 yuan you can choose cash or a bank transfer, and the money is paid in yuan. Above that the agency pays by transfer only, so bring the account details you want it sent to.
Tax RefundWhat is the minimum spend for a China tax refund?
200 yuan in one refund shop on one day for one passenger. Purchases at different branches of the same chain do not combine, and the threshold is per shop per day rather than per trip.
Tax RefundCan I add my Chinese bank card to TenPayGo?
No. TenPayGo only accepts payment methods issued outside mainland China, so a mainland bank card cannot be added and there is no balance to top up. If you live in China, set up WeChat Pay or Alipay on your own number instead.
TenPayGoCan I use TenPayGo if I live in China?
It is the wrong tool for residents. There is no way to add a mainland bank card, no balance to hold, and no person-to-person transfer. …
TenPayGoDo I need WeChat to use TenPayGo?
No. TenPayGo is a standalone app. You do not need a WeChat account, a WeChat contact list or any mini programs. Tencent's own description is that you can pay at merchants that accept Weixin Pay without needing a Chinese phone number or a Weixin account.
TenPayGoDo I need a Chinese phone number?
No. You register with an email address: enter it, take the verification code, and set a password. That is the whole sign-up. This is the point of the app, because most Chinese payment apps otherwise expect a mainland mobile number.
TenPayGoDoes TenPayGo work outside the big cities?
Paying does. TenPayGo settles through the Weixin Pay merchant network, so any shop, restaurant or taxi that displays a Weixin Pay QR code can take it. …
TenPayGoHow do I get a refund on a TenPayGo payment?
The merchant starts it. Agree the refund with the shop, they push it through from their side, and the money returns to the card or wallet you paid with. You can follow payments and refunds in the app's transaction history. …
TenPayGoWhat does TenPayGo cost to use?
Card payments of ¥200 or less carry no 3% fee, and payments above ¥200 carry 3% on the whole amount rather than on the part above the threshold. …
TenPayGoWhich cards can I add to TenPayGo?
International cards issued outside mainland China, on seven networks, including Visa, Mastercard and UnionPay. Apple Pay is supported as a payment method in its own right, and partner overseas e-wallets are being added in stages.
TenPayGoPhones & apps
What to install before you fly, and what works without a local number. 7 questions.
Do I need a Chinese phone number to use Chinese apps?
No. WeChat, Alipay, and Didi all accept international phone numbers for registration. Trip.com works with email sign-up.
Essential AppsHow do I download Chinese apps on iPhone?
Option 1: Switch your App Store region to Mainland China. Option 2: Create a second Apple ID with region set to China. Option 3 (easiest): Download what you can from your home store before arriving.
Essential AppsWhat is the best payment app for foreigners in China?
Alipay has the best international card support including Amex. Its dedicated international sign-up flow and English interface make it the easiest to set up.
Essential AppsWhich apps should I download BEFORE arriving in China?
WeChat, Alipay, Didi, Trip.com, and Google Translate (offline Chinese pack). Download these from your home App Store - some are difficult to download once inside China.
Essential AppsDoes my phone support eSIM in China?
Most modern phones support travel eSIMs: iPhone XS and newer (except mainland-China models, which have no eSIM), Google Pixel 3 and newer (except Japan models), Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and Z Fold or Z Flip series. Some Huawei models also support eSIM.
InternetHow do I get internet in China as a tourist?
The simplest route is a travel eSIM bought before you leave - buy online, activate on arrival, no shop visit or SIM swap. If you prefer a physical SIM, counters at major airport arrivals halls sell short-stay data plans; bring your passport.
InternetShould I buy a SIM card at the airport in China?
You can, but most travellers buy a data plan before they arrive and never visit a SIM counter. Airport counters are the fallback: they sell short-stay data plans at major arrivals halls, and you will need your passport for registration.
InternetGetting around
Airports, rail, metros, taxis and the two-wheeled option. 24 questions.
How do I get from a Chinese airport to the city centre?
Every major Chinese airport offers metro, taxi and shuttle options. The metro is the most reliable - fixed price, no traffic risk. From Shanghai Pudong, the Maglev reaches Longyang Road in 7 minutes for 50 CNY, then transfer to Metro Line 2. …
Airport to CityHow much does a taxi cost from Beijing Capital Airport to the city?
¥120-180 to central Beijing, taking 30-60 minutes. There is a ¥80 surcharge for late-night rides.
Airport to CityIs there luggage storage at Chinese airports?
Yes, most major airports have left-luggage counters (行李寄存) at ¥10-30 per item per day. Useful for layovers when you want to explore the city.
Airport to CityWhat is the fastest way from Shanghai Pudong to the city?
The Maglev train reaches 431 km/h and gets you to Longyang Road in 7 minutes for ¥50. Then transfer to Metro Line 2.
Airport to CityWhat should I do if my flight arrives late at night?
Most airports have 24-hour taxi queues. Didi works around the clock. Metro typically stops between 22:30-23:30 - check the last train time at the station.
Airport to CityWhich is the best way to get from a Chinese airport to the city?
Metro is the most reliable option - fixed price, no traffic, and airport express lines are faster. Taxi is convenient but costs 2-3× more. Shuttle buses are cheapest but slowest.
Airport to CityHow do I book Chinese train tickets as a foreigner?
You can register on the official 12306 platform with a foreign passport, or book through Trip.com. See the EVENTURUS Train Ticket Booking Guide for the full step-by-step walkthrough.
City-to-City TransportHow long is the train from Shanghai to Beijing?
The fastest high-speed trains cover Shanghai to Beijing in about 4 hours 30 minutes, with second-class fares around 576-697 CNY. The flight takes 2h20m, but door-to-door the train is usually the better choice between the two city centres.
City-to-City TransportIs it better to fly or take the train in China?
For most routes under about 1,500 km, high-speed rail beats flying door to door. Shanghai-Beijing takes 4 hours 30 minutes by train against a 2h20m flight plus airport time. For long distances such as Shanghai-Chengdu (10. …
City-to-City TransportWhen is flying better than taking the train in China?
Flying wins on long distances. Shanghai-Chengdu is 10 hours 30 minutes by rail versus a 3-hour flight; Shanghai-Guangzhou is 6h50m by rail versus 2h30m in the air. For routes under about 1,500 km, the train is usually faster door to door.
City-to-City TransportCan I use Didi with a foreign phone number?
Yes. Didi now accepts international phone numbers for registration. You will receive SMS verification on your foreign number.
DidiCan I use Didi without downloading the app?
Yes. Didi is available as a mini-program inside WeChat and Alipay. It has the same functionality and uses your existing payment method.
DidiHow much does a Didi ride cost in Chinese cities?
A 5 km Didi Express ride typically costs ¥15 - 35 depending on the city and time of day. Premier rides cost 1.3 - 1.6× more.
DidiWhat if the driver calls me and I don't speak Chinese?
Answer and say "Qǐng kàn dìng wèi" (请看定位 - please check the GPS pin). You can also use the in-app auto-translate chat feature.
DidiWhat should I do if I leave something in a Didi?
Open the ride record, tap "Lost Item" (物品遗失), and call the driver through the app. Didi protects your privacy by masking both phone numbers.
DidiAre there shared e-bikes in China?
In some cities, but the big four restrict them. A 2017 ten-ministry policy did not encourage shared e-bikes, and a 2023 reply from Guangzhou's Panyu district named Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen as cities that had banned or discouraged the business, with Guangzhou not encouraging it either. …
E-BikesCan I carry a passenger on an e-bike in China?
No adults in Shanghai or Beijing. Shanghai allows one child aged 12 or younger, in a fixed seat if the child is 6 or younger. …
E-BikesCan I charge the battery in my hotel room?
Beijing bans taking an e-bike battery into a residential building from 1 May 2026, and Shanghai bans charging in the shared parts of a building, in escape routes and in the indoor areas of crowded places, with a 50 to 200 yuan fine for running a cable. …
E-BikesCan I use an international driving permit in China?
No. An International Driving Permit does not override the rule: the Shanghai public security bureau states that an overseas licence cannot be used in China. …
E-BikesCan foreigners rent an e-bike in China?
Yes. An electric bicycle, 电动自行车, is legally a non-motor vehicle, so no driving licence is required. The rider must be at least 16. Carry your passport, and confirm that the bike carries a local non-motor vehicle plate before you pay.
E-BikesDo I have to wear a helmet on an e-bike in China?
There is no national penalty for riding without one, so it depends on the province or city. Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Hebei require one, Beijing has since 1 May 2026, and Shenzhen and Shandong fine it. …
E-BikesDo I need a licence to ride an e-bike in China?
Not for an electric bicycle, which is capped at a design speed of 25 km/h. …
E-BikesHow much does it cost to rent an e-bike in China?
Travel reports from 2026 put Yangshuo at 20 to 40 yuan a day, with West Street shops quoting up to 150, and Dali at 40 to 80 yuan a day, or 130 to 180 for a bike that can circle the lake. …
E-BikesFood & markets
Ordering, tipping, delivery, and where to eat without a translator. 17 questions.
How do I find vegetarian food in China?
Use Dianping to search for "素食" (vegetarian). Buddhist vegetarian restaurants (素菜馆) are reliably vegan-friendly. Say "bù yào ròu" (不要肉) to request no meat.
DiningHow do I order food delivery in China?
Use Meituan or Ele.me. Browse by photos, pay with WeChat Pay or Alipay, and delivery typically arrives in 25 - 40 minutes.
DiningHow does QR code ordering work in Chinese restaurants?
Scan the QR code on your table with WeChat or Alipay. A digital menu opens with photos and prices. Select items, confirm, and pay directly through the app.
DiningIs street food safe to eat in China?
Yes, if you follow the queue rule: eat where locals queue. The turnover is fast and the food is cooked fresh. Avoid pre-cooked food sitting at room temperature.
DiningWhat are the most common Chinese dishes for beginners?
Fried rice, noodles, dumplings, kung pao chicken, and stir-fried greens are universally available and beginner-friendly.
DiningWhat is the tipping etiquette in Chinese restaurants?
Tipping is not expected. In casual restaurants, do not tip. In high-end restaurants, a 10 - 15% service charge is usually included.
DiningCan foreigners use Meituan and Ele.me?
Yes. Both accept a foreign passport for registration and a foreign bank card through WeChat Pay or Alipay. The interface has an English mode, and the in-app chat translates messages to the rider.
Food DeliveryHow do I enter my address for delivery?
Enter the building number, floor and room, then drop a pin on the map at the entrance. Add a landmark such as the nearest metro exit, because street numbering is not always obvious from the road.
Food DeliveryHow do I pay for food delivery in China?
Through WeChat Pay or Alipay, both linked to a foreign card. Cash on delivery is not an option, and the order is paid when you place it rather than when it arrives.
Food DeliveryWhat if the rider calls and I cannot speak Chinese?
Use the in-app chat instead of answering. Both apps translate messages, and the rider can send a photo of the entrance. Many riders also send a standard text when they are close.
Food DeliveryWhat should I do if the order is wrong or missing items?
Report it in the app rather than arguing at the door. Both platforms have a refund path for missing or incorrect items, and the rider is not the person who authorises it.
Food DeliveryCan I claim a tax refund on a tailored suit?
Only if the shop is a registered refund shop, you export the suit unused within ninety days, and you have the invoice and refund form. Wearing it before departure disqualifies the claim, so collect it close to your flight.
MarketsDo I need to speak Chinese to use the fabric market?
No. Most shops have English signage, many owners negotiate in English, and a photograph of the cut you want communicates more than vocabulary. Bringing your measurements written down helps.
MarketsDo Shanghai markets take foreign cards?
Larger stalls and shops usually do, and mobile payment linked to a foreign card works almost everywhere. Smaller wet-market stalls may only accept mobile payment or cash, so carry a few hundred yuan in small notes.
MarketsHow long does a custom suit take in Shanghai?
Collection usually takes a few days, and next-day rush orders are common at the South Bund fabric market. A proper fitting adds a day, and skipping it is the most common reason a cheap suit looks cheap.
MarketsIs Qipu Road still worth visiting?
For cheap basics and the atmosphere of a wholesale floor, yes, between September and November. For quality clothing, no. Large parts of the district close in summer and around Spring Festival, which is why visitors sometimes find it deserted.
MarketsWhich wet market should a first-time visitor try?
Wuzhong Market on Wulumuqi Road. It has bilingual signs, two floors of produce and prepared food, and a farm restaurant upstairs, which makes it legible without much Chinese. Go in the morning.
MarketsShopping & souvenirs
What to buy, what cannot leave the country, and how to ship it. 12 questions.
Can I use a foreign bank card to pay on Taobao and JD?
Yes. Link your Visa or Mastercard to Alipay or WeChat Pay first. Both platforms then accept payment through those apps. Some JD sellers accept international cards directly.
Shopping OnlineCan foreigners use Taobao, JD, and Pinduoduo in China?
Yes. All three platforms accept foreign passport registration. You need a Chinese phone number for SMS verification, and Alipay or WeChat Pay linked to a foreign bank card for payment.
Shopping OnlineHow do I avoid getting scammed on Chinese e-commerce platforms?
Stick to verified sellers (Tmall on Taobao, JD Self-Operated). Check reviews with user-uploaded photos. Never pay outside the platform via QR codes. Use the built-in escrow system - sellers only receive payment after you confirm receipt.
Shopping OnlineHow do I register on Taobao as a foreigner?
Download the app, tap 'Register' (注册), enter your Chinese phone number and verify via SMS, set a password, then complete real-name verification (实名认证) using your passport. Approval takes 1 to 24 hours.
Shopping OnlineHow do I return items on Taobao?
Most items qualify for a 7-day no-reason return policy (七天无理由退货). Go to 'My Orders' (我的订单), select the order, tap 'Apply for Refund/Return' (申请退款/退货), select a reason, and wait for approval. Refunds take 1 to 7 days to Alipay or WeChat balance.
Shopping OnlineHow long does delivery take from Taobao and JD?
JD typically delivers in 1 to 2 days via JD Logistics. Taobao takes 2 to 5 days. Pinduoduo takes 3 to 7 days. All platforms show real-time courier tracking in the app.
Shopping OnlineCan I bring Chinese food home?
Tea and sealed dry goods usually travel fine. Meat, dairy and fresh fruit are barred by most destination countries whatever China allows, so vacuum-packed local specialities bought at the airport are the most common mistake.
SouvenirsCan I claim a tax refund on souvenirs?
Yes, if the shop is a registered refund shop, you spend at least 200 yuan in one shop on one day, and the goods leave China unused within ninety days. You need the invoice, the refund form and the items themselves at the customs desk.
SouvenirsCan I take antique Chinese objects home?
Rarely. Objects made in or before 1949 with historical or artistic value are in principle banned from export, and anything made in or before 1911 is banned outright. …
SouvenirsIs ivory or coral sold in China legal to buy?
No. Ivory, coral, turtle shell and similar protected materials are prohibited from trade and from being carried out, and departure seizures are routine. Buying them puts the object and potentially the buyer at risk.
SouvenirsIs valuable Chinese herbal medicine allowed out?
It is a restricted export category, so expensive roots and animal-derived preparations may need approval. Ordinary packaged tea and food are not the issue. Check before you buy, not at the airport.
SouvenirsWhat are the best souvenirs to buy in China?
Tea, silk textiles, small porcelain, and a carved stone seal with your name. All four are light, useful and made by identifiable people. Museum shop design is the best-value category, with fixed prices and honest materials.
SouvenirsWhere to stay
Areas, cities, and whether the hotel takes foreign passports. 38 questions.
Can foreigners stay anywhere in Beijing?
Nearly all licensed hotels register international guests without issue, and no separate permit is required in order to take foreign guests. A minority of small guesthouses and homestays still turn foreign visitors away, which is not permitted. Confirm the property accepts foreign passports before booking. …
BeijingIs it better to stay near the Forbidden City?
For the sightseeing days, yes - Wangfujing and Qianmen are within walking distance of the palace complex. …
BeijingWhat is the best area to stay in Beijing for tourists?
Wangfujing or Qianmen are the best bases for a first visit: both keep the Forbidden City and Tiananmen within walking distance, sit on the Metro, and offer hotels at every price level. The hutongs around Gulou suit visitors who prefer charm and courtyard hotels over convenience.
BeijingWhere should I stay in Beijing for my first visit?
Stay near Wangfujing or Qianmen. Wangfujing is the tourist hub on Metro Line 1 with the palace district on its doorstep; Qianmen is the old-town quarter within walking distance of Tiananmen on Line 2. …
BeijingCan foreigners stay anywhere in Chengdu?
Nearly all licensed hotels register international guests without issue. Small guesthouses and courtyard conversions sometimes turn foreign visitors away, which is common in the boutique stock around Kuanzhai Alley, though the practice is not permitted. Confirm the property accepts foreign passports before booking.
ChengduHow do I get from Tianfu airport to the city?
Metro Line 18 runs from the terminal to Chengdu South Railway Station in about 37 minutes on an express train, for 10 yuan. Change to Line 1 for Tianfu Square, which takes the total to roughly 75 minutes. …
ChengduIs it better to stay near Kuanzhai Alley or Chunxi Road?
Kuanzhai Alley for atmosphere and courtyard hotels, Chunxi Road for food, transport and price range. Kuanzhai Alley is a ten-minute walk from People's Park and one stop from the centre by metro, so it is not remote. …
ChengduWhat is the best area to stay in Chengdu for tourists?
Chunxi Road and Tianfu Square are the best bases for a first visit: both sit on two metro lines, keep the city's best food within walking distance, and cover every price level. Kuanzhai Alley suits visitors who want courtyard hotels. …
ChengduWhich airport should I fly into, Tianfu or Shuangliu?
It is decided by your airline, not by you. Tianfu (TFU) handles most long-haul and international routes and sits 51 km south-east of the centre. Shuangliu (CTU) is 16 km south-west and takes mostly domestic and regional flights. …
ChengduCan foreigners stay anywhere in Chongqing?
Nearly all licensed hotels register international guests without issue. Small guesthouses and apartment rentals sometimes turn foreign visitors away, which is common among the hillside conversions around Hongyadong, though the practice is not permitted. Confirm the property accepts foreign passports before booking.
ChongqingHow do I get from Jiangbei airport to the city centre?
From Terminal 3, Metro Line 10 leaves from B1 and costs 2-7 yuan by distance. Change at Hongtudi to Line 6 for Xiaoshizi, which brings you out at Hongyadong and Jiefangbei in about 45-50 minutes. …
ChongqingIs Chongqing walkable?
Not in the way most cities are. Chongqing is built on hills between two rivers, so a short distance on a map can mean stairs, escalators or a lift through a building. …
ChongqingShould I stay on the north or south bank of the river?
Stay on the peninsula at Jiefangbei if you want the sights on foot. Stay on Nanbin Road on the south bank if you want the skyline view and a quieter base, accepting a taxi ride to reach the centre. …
ChongqingWhat is the best area to stay in Chongqing for tourists?
Jiefangbei, on the peninsula, is the best base for a first visit: Metro Lines 1 and 2 cross there, Hongyadong and the Yangtze cable car are on foot, and every river crossing starts from the centre. …
ChongqingDo Hangzhou hotels accept foreign passports?
International and upper mid-range hotels generally do. Smaller guesthouses and homestays sometimes are not registered for foreign guests, so confirm in writing before booking and keep the reply with your reservation.
HangzhouHow far is Hangzhou from Shanghai?
About 45 to 60 minutes by high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao to Hangzhou East, with departures through the day. Metro Line 1 connects the station to the lakefront, so no taxi is needed on arrival.
HangzhouHow many days do I need in Hangzhou?
Two full days covers the lake and Lingyin. Three allows Xixi or a tea village without rushing, and four makes a slow trip. Anything shorter and most of it is spent in transit from Shanghai.
HangzhouIs West Lake free to visit?
Yes. There is no admission charge for the lake or the promenade, which is open at all hours. Boat trips, some gardens and the pagoda charge separately, typically ¥20 to ¥80 depending on the ticket, and the lake is quietest before eight.
HangzhouWhich station should I arrive at?
Hangzhou East for almost all high-speed services, including from Shanghai, and Hangzhou West for some longer routes. Hangzhou station, known as Chengzhan, is the closest of the four to West Lake. …
HangzhouCan foreigners stay anywhere in Shanghai?
Nearly all licensed hotels can register foreign guests. Small guesthouses and homestays sometimes lack the licence to host international visitors - check that the property accepts foreign passports before booking. …
ShanghaiIs it better to stay in Pudong or Puxi?
For most visitors, Puxi (the west side of the river) is better. The Bund, the old city, the French Concession and nearly all of the sightseeing are on this side. …
ShanghaiWhat is the best area to stay in Shanghai for tourists?
Jing'an is the best all-round base for tourists: quiet residential streets, strong Metro connections on Lines 2, 7, 12 and 14, and the city's best restaurant strip within walking distance. …
ShanghaiWhere should I stay in Shanghai for my first visit?
Base yourself in Jing'an or near People's Square. Both put you within easy Metro reach of the Bund, the old city and the French Concession, with good hotels at every price level. …
ShanghaiCan I visit Tongli from Suzhou without a car?
Yes. Metro Line 4 runs from Suzhou station to Tongli in about fifty minutes, then a short tram covers the last stretch, for under ¥10 in total. Staying the night is what makes it worthwhile, because the lanes empty after five.
SuzhouDo Suzhou hotels accept foreign passports?
Most international and upper mid-range hotels are licensed to. Registration is granted per property, so small courtyard guesthouses in the old town are less consistent. Ask in writing before you pay and keep the reply, particularly for cheaper listings.
SuzhouHow far is Suzhou from Shanghai?
About 25 minutes by high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao to Suzhou station, with services every ten to twenty minutes and second-class fares from ¥31. It is faster than crossing central Shanghai, which is why day trips work so well.
SuzhouIs Suzhou worth staying overnight?
Yes. The gardens are calm before nine and the canals are at their best after five, and neither is available on a day trip. Two nights lets you see the old town properly and add Tongli without rushing the return.
SuzhouWhich station should I arrive at in Suzhou?
Suzhou station, on the edge of the old town and two kilometres from Pingjiang Road. It sits on Metro Lines 2 and 4. Suzhou North is fifteen kilometres out and adds about thirty minutes by metro, so check the arrival station before paying.
SuzhouCan I visit Wuzhen as a day trip?
Yes, but you will see it between nine and five, which is the busiest part of the day. One night inside the west scenic area gives you the empty lanes before nine and the lanterns after five, from around ¥800 in high season.
Where to StayDo I need a car in the delta?
No for Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou and Wuzhen, all reachable by rail and metro. You need one in Anji's valleys, and it helps in Moganshan's outer villages, though the mountain itself runs a shuttle from the Yucun transfer centre.
Where to StayHow many days do I need in the Yangtze Delta?
A week covers two bases without rushing. Five to six nights splits comfortably between Shanghai and one of Suzhou or Hangzhou, both under an hour apart by rail. Three nights suits a single city, and one night is enough for Wuzhen.
Where to StayShould I stay in Shanghai or Hangzhou?
Shanghai for a first trip, for food and for connections. Hangzhou for landscape and a slower pace. The high-speed train between them takes 45 to 60 minutes, so two nights in each is realistic and avoids choosing at all.
Where to StayWhich is better, Moganshan or Anji?
Moganshan for a two-night weekend with a village base and no car: the mountain is compact and a shuttle covers it. Anji is a whole county, so it rewards three nights and a car, and suits families who want rivers and space.
Where to StayCan foreigners stay anywhere in Xi'an?
Nearly all licensed hotels register international guests without issue. Small guesthouses and courtyard conversions inside the walls sometimes turn foreign visitors away, though the practice is not permitted. Confirm the property accepts foreign passports before booking.
Xi'anHow do I get from Xianyang airport to the city?
Metro Line 14 runs from the airport to Xi'an North Station in about 30-40 minutes for roughly 7 yuan, where you change to Line 2 for the Bell Tower: about an hour and 8 yuan in total. The airport bus reaches the Bell Tower in 1-1. …
Xi'anIs it better to stay near the Bell Tower or the South Gate?
The Bell Tower for food and transport, the South Gate for quiet. They are one metro stop apart. …
Xi'anShould I stay inside or outside the city walls?
Inside, for a first visit. The Bell Tower, the Muslim Quarter and the wall itself are all a walk away, and the walled city is compact enough that a taxi is optional. …
Xi'anWhat is the best area to stay in Xi'an for tourists?
Inside the city walls, between the Bell Tower and the South Gate. Both sit on Metro Line 2, put the Muslim Quarter and the wall within walking distance, and cover every price level. …
Xi'anWeekend escapes
Anji, Moganshan and Wuzhen — short trips out of the delta. 15 questions.
Do I need a car in Anji?
Yes for Tianhuangping, Shanchuan and Baofu. Ride-hailing exists but supply is thin in the valleys, especially after dark, and some guesthouses sit three kilometres from the nearest junction. Dipu and Lingfeng can be done without one.
AnjiHow do I get to Anji from Shanghai?
Direct high-speed trains run from Shanghai Hongqiao in 1 hour 20 to 1 hour 40 minutes for ¥92 to ¥111, but only a few times a day. By car it is two and a half to three hours, which gives more flexibility for the valleys.
AnjiHow many days do I need in Anji?
Two nights for one valley, three for two. The county is large and the roads are slow, so a day trip from Hangzhou sees very little of it. With one night, base yourself in Dipu or Lingfeng and stay put.
AnjiIs Anji good for families?
Yes, particularly the Lingfeng resort zone, which has pools, parks and family rooms within a short drive. The bamboo villages suit older children who can walk, and Baofu's rivers work best for groups in summer, when the water is low.
AnjiWhen is the best time to visit Anji?
Late spring and autumn. Summer works if you stay high on the Shanchuan ridge, where nights are cooler than in the valley. Winter is quiet and often grey, and some guesthouses close between the New Year and spring.
AnjiCan I drive up to the mountain?
Not into the scenic core. Private cars park at the Yucun transfer centre and everyone continues by shuttle, hotel guests included. The shuttle takes 15 to 20 minutes, so pack light or ask the property to meet you.
MoganshanDo I need a car in Moganshan?
Not for Yucun, where the village, the transfer centre and the shuttle cover a car-free weekend. You do need one for Laoling and Fatou, which are valleys of scattered guesthouses with no reliable taxi supply after dark.
MoganshanHow do I get to Moganshan from Shanghai?
High-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao to Deqing takes about an hour and costs ¥72 to ¥103 in second class, depending on the train. …
MoganshanIs one night enough?
Enough to see the mountain, not enough to feel it. Two nights gives you one full day of walking and one quiet morning before the coaches arrive, which is the reason most people come. One night suits a stopover on a longer trip.
MoganshanWhen is the cheapest time to stay?
Midweek in winter, excluding the week around Chinese New Year. Spring and autumn weekends are the most expensive nights, and summer behaves like a holiday season throughout. December to February is cheapest, though some places close.
MoganshanCan I leave the scenic area and come back?
Standard tickets are usually single entry, so leaving for lunch may mean paying again. Guests at official properties inside can register for re-entry at the gate. Confirm the rule when you book, because it changes how you plan meals.
WuzhenDo I need cash in Wuzhen?
No. The town runs almost entirely cashless, including buses, boats and small shops, and drivers cannot break large notes. Link a foreign card to Alipay or WeChat Pay before you arrive rather than at a ticket window.
WuzhenHow do I get to Wuzhen from Shanghai?
High-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao to Tongxiang in 33 to 50 minutes for ¥40 to ¥62, then a 28 to 40 minute taxi for ¥50 to ¥100. The local bus costs ¥7 in total but takes about an hour with a transfer at Wuzhen bus station.
WuzhenHow much are the tickets?
The west and east scenic areas are ticketed separately, with a combined ticket that costs less than buying both. Expect around ¥150 for the west side and ¥110 for the east in high season, with prices moving by date and by channel.
WuzhenIs it worth staying overnight in Wuzhen?
Yes. Day visitors see the town between nine and five, when it is busiest. Guests at official properties inside can register for re-entry, so they get the lanes before nine and the lanterns after five, which amounts to a different town.
WuzhenSights & day trips
The Great Wall, museums, and what is worth a whole day. 14 questions.
How far is the Summer Palace from central Beijing?
About 15 kilometres northwest of the centre - roughly 40 minutes by Metro on Line 4 to Xiyuan station. The palace and its lake need a full half-day to see properly; combined with the nearby ruins of the Old Summer Palace it becomes a full day.
Beijing Day TripsIs Tianjin worth a day trip from Beijing?
Yes, as a change of pace rather than a bucket-list stop. Tianjin is 30 minutes by high-speed rail and offers the Hai River waterfront, century-old foreign concessions and some of China's best food streets. …
Beijing Day TripsShould I visit Mutianyu or Badaling for a Great Wall day trip?
Mutianyu for a first visit: 90 minutes from the city, genuinely beautiful, moderately crowded, with a cable car and a toboggan. Badaling is the easiest to reach - 22 minutes on the high-speed rail from Beijing North - but it is the most crowded section. …
Beijing Day TripsWhat are the best day trips from Beijing?
The Great Wall is the essential day trip - Mutianyu for the best balance, Badaling for the easiest rail access. The Summer Palace and the Ming Tombs are classic half-to-full day additions. Gubei Water Town pairs a night with Simatai's illuminated wall. …
Beijing Day TripsCan I visit the Great Wall at night?
Simatai is the only section offering night visits. The wall is illuminated and Gubei Water Town below is lit up. Night tickets cost ¥160.
Great WallHow do I book tickets for the Great Wall?
Most sections require online booking via WeChat mini-programs or Trip.com. Bring your passport - the QR code on your phone is your ticket.
Great WallHow long does it take to get from Beijing to the Great Wall?
Travel times range from 60 minutes (Juyongguan) to 150 minutes (Jinshanling). Most sections are 80 - 120 minutes by car.
Great WallIs the Great Wall suitable for children?
Yes. Badaling and Mutianyu have cable cars and are wheelchair/pram-friendly. Mutianyu also has a toboggan ride that children love.
Great WallWhat is the best time of year to visit the Great Wall?
Autumn (late October) offers the best weather, clearest skies, and stunning foliage colours.
Great WallWhich section of the Great Wall should I visit first?
Mutianyu offers the best balance of restoration, accessibility, and crowd levels. Badaling is most visited but extremely crowded.
Great WallAre the water towns near Shanghai worth visiting?
Yes, if you choose one. Zhujiajiao is the easiest and the most genuinely old. Tongli and Zhouzhuang, reachable by high-speed rail or bus, are larger and more atmospheric but busier. Qibao is a compact taste of the same thing and the most convenient. …
Shanghai Day TripsHow do I get to Zhujiajiao from Shanghai?
Take Metro Line 17 to Zhujiajiao station - about one hour from the city centre - then walk ten minutes to the canals. The town itself is free to enter and needs no advance booking. Morning arrival beats the afternoon tour groups.
Shanghai Day TripsIs Suzhou or Hangzhou better for a day trip?
Suzhou if you want classical gardens and a compact, walkable old town - it is also closer, 30 minutes by rail. …
Shanghai Day TripsWhat are the best day trips from Shanghai?
Suzhou for classical gardens (30 minutes by high-speed rail), Hangzhou for West Lake and tea fields (45 minutes by rail), and Zhujiajiao for a canal town that needs no train ticket (one hour on Metro Line 17). …
Shanghai Day TripsHealth & emergencies
Numbers to keep, insurance that works, and the order to do things in. 13 questions.
Does travel insurance cover medical treatment in China?
Most international travel insurance policies cover medical treatment in China, but you should verify before travelling. Chinese hospitals typically require upfront payment before treatment and you will need to claim reimbursement from your insurer afterwards. Keep all receipts, diagnoses, and treatment records.
EmergenciesHow do emergency phrases work in China?
Key phrases to show or say: 救命 (jiùmìng - Help! ), 我迷路了 (wǒ mílù le - I am lost), 我需要看医生 (wǒ xūyào kàn yīshēng - I need a doctor), 请问最近的医院在哪里? (qǐngwèn zuìjìn de yīyuàn zài nǎlǐ? - Where is the nearest hospital? ). …
EmergenciesWhat are the emergency phone numbers in China?
Police: 110. Fire: 119. Ambulance: 120. Traffic accident: 122. These are free from any phone. For English-speaking assistance, call the 24-hour national tourism hotline at 12301.
EmergenciesWhat should I do if I lose my passport in China?
Go to the nearest police station immediately and file a report to get a loss certificate. Then visit your country's embassy or consulate for an emergency travel document. …
EmergenciesWhere can I find my embassy in China?
Most embassies are in Beijing, with consulates in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and other major cities. Search "[your country] embassy Beijing" on a map app. The emergency guide page at eventurus.cn lists embassy contact details for major nationalities. In an emergency, call your embassy's 24-hour consular hotline.
EmergenciesAre Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments safe and effective?
TCM practised in licensed Chinese hospitals is government-regulated and generally safe when administered by qualified professionals. Acupuncture is widely used for pain management and has a good safety record. …
HospitalsCan I bring my regular prescription medication into China?
Yes - bring enough for your entire trip plus a 2 - 3 week reserve. Carry medications in original packaging with a doctor's letter (English + Chinese translation). …
HospitalsCan I use my home country health insurance in China?
Almost certainly not. Standard health insurance from the UK (NHS), US (employer plans), EU (EHIC/GHIC), and Australia (Medicare) does not cover treatment in China. You need dedicated travel insurance or an international health plan. …
HospitalsDo Chinese hospitals accept blood donations? Is the blood supply safe?
China's blood supply is regulated by the Ministry of Health and all donated blood is screened for HIV, hepatitis B/C, and syphilis. Blood banks at 三甲 hospitals follow national standards comparable to international protocols. You cannot donate blood as a foreign tourist (temporary visitors are ineligible). …
HospitalsHow do I get my medical records and test results?
Ask for a printed copy of your medical record (病历 bìnglì) and test results (化验单 huàyàndān) before leaving the hospital. …
HospitalsIs 120 (ambulance) free in China?
No. Ambulance services are not free. Expect ¥100 - 300 for the call-out plus ¥5 - 10 per kilometre. Payment is collected at the hospital, not by paramedics. Most travel insurance policies reimburse ambulance costs. …
HospitalsWhat if I am injured in a smaller city without an international hospital?
Go to the largest public hospital in that city (typically called 人民医院 - People's Hospital). Ask for the VIP/international department. Even in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, many hospitals now have a dedicated foreign patient liaison or can connect to a remote telephone interpreter service. …
HospitalsWhat if I need surgery - how safe are Chinese hospitals?
Grade III-A teaching hospitals in major cities operate at international standards for surgery. Hospitals like PUMCH, Huashan, and West China have outcomes comparable to top Western teaching hospitals for their core specialties. …
Hospitals