Visas, payment apps, SIM cards, transport — everything you need to know before your first trip to China, all in one place.
Planning your first trip to China can feel daunting. The language barrier, the different payment systems, the sheer size of the country — it's a lot. This guide breaks down everything you need to know before you go, in plain English.
Visas & Entry
Most travelers need a tourist visa (L visa) to visit China. Apply at your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate with your passport, a passport photo, your itinerary, and hotel bookings. Processing usually takes about a week, but give yourself more time just in case.
Good news: China now offers 144-hour visa-free transit in several major cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. If you're just passing through for a few days, you might not need a visa at all — check the latest rules before you book.
Payment & Apps You'll Need
Cash is basically obsolete in China. Almost everything is paid for with your phone — Alipay and WeChat Pay are the two big ones. The good news is both now let you link international credit cards, so you don't need a Chinese bank account. Set them up before you arrive and you'll be ready to go.
Download WeChat before your trip — it's not just for messaging, it's how you pay for things, book restaurants, and even navigate. For maps, use Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode) — Google Maps doesn't work reliably in China. A VPN is useful if you want to access Google, Instagram, or other blocked sites.
Getting Around
China's high-speed rail network is the largest in the world and an absolute joy to ride. Fast, clean, comfortable, and surprisingly affordable. Book tickets through Trip.com or the 12306 app (the official one — it's in Chinese but reliable).
Within cities, the metro is your best bet. Clean, cheap, and extensive in all major cities. For getting around when the metro doesn't reach, use DiDi — it's basically the Chinese Uber and it's much cheaper than regular taxis.
One last thing: get a local SIM card or an eSIM at the airport when you arrive. Data is cheap and having a working phone makes everything so much easier.