China is unlike anywhere you've traveled. The technology, the culture, the food — everything works differently here. These 25 tips will save you time, money, and frustration on your first trip.
Before You Go
1. Get Your Visa Early
Chinese visas take 4-7 business days to process. Apply through your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate. See our full visa guide for the complete process.
2. Download Essential Apps
Google Maps, WhatsApp, and Instagram don't work in China. Download Alipay, WeChat, Didi, and a VPN before you fly. Full apps guide here.
3. Notify Your Bank
Tell your bank you're traveling to China. Otherwise, your card might get frozen on the first ATM withdrawal.
4. Pack Right
Universal adapter (China uses Type A, C, and I plugs), power bank, and your medications in original containers. See our packing list.
Money & Payment
5. Set Up Alipay Before Flying
Link your foreign Visa/Mastercard to Alipay. It handles 90%+ of payments in China — restaurants, taxis, street vendors, even temples. Step-by-step guide here.
6. Carry Some Cash, But Not Much
¥500-1000 in cash is enough for emergencies. Most transactions are digital. ATMs at major banks accept foreign cards.
7. Tipping Is NOT Expected
China doesn't have a tipping culture. In fact, leaving a tip can be confusing. Just pay the bill amount.
8. Bargaining Is Expected at Markets (Not Malls)
At tourist markets, street vendors, and antique shops — negotiate. Start at 30-40% of the asking price. At malls, restaurants, and chain stores — prices are fixed.
Getting Around
9. Use Didi, Not Street Taxis
Didi (China's Uber) is cheaper, safer, and you don't need to speak Chinese — the app handles everything.
10. Metro Is the Best City Transport
Every major Chinese city has a metro. It's clean, cheap (¥2-7 per ride), and station names are in English too.
11. High-Speed Rail Beats Flying (Under 800 km)
China's bullet trains reach 350 km/h. Beijing to Shanghai (1,300 km) takes just 4.5 hours. Book through Trip.com.
12. Save Your Hotel Address in Chinese
Showing a driver "Beijing Hotel" means nothing. Showing "北京饭店" gets you there instantly. Screenshot it on your phone.
Internet & Communication
13. Get an eSIM or Local SIM
Hotel WiFi is reliable but doesn't solve the "Google is blocked" problem. An eSIM (Airalo, Holafly) + VPN gives you full internet access.
14. VPN Is Essential for Google Services
Download and configure a VPN before arriving — you can't download one from inside China. Recommended: ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Astrill.
15. WeChat Is Your Communication Lifeline
Your guide, hotel, driver, and new Chinese friends all use WeChat. Voice messages are easier than typing Chinese characters.
Culture & Etiquette
16. Learn 5 Basic Phrases
- 你好 (Nǐ hǎo) — Hello
- 谢谢 (Xièxiè) — Thank you
- 多少钱？(Duōshǎo qián?) — How much?
- 我要这个 (Wǒ yào zhège) — I want this
- 不要辣 (Bú yào là) — No spicy
17. Don't Stick Chopsticks Upright in Rice
It resembles funeral incense and is considered extremely bad manners.
18. Try the Food — Even the Weird Stuff
Chinese food is the best in the world, period. Don't eat at the hotel restaurant every night. See our food guide for what to try.
19. Personal Space Is Different
Queues are more like "suggestions." People will stand closer to you than you're used to. It's not rude — it's just different.
20. Spitting in Public Still Happens
Especially among older generations. Don't take it personally and don't photograph it.
Safety & Scams
21. China Is Extremely Safe
Violent crime against tourists is rare. Walking alone at night is safe in any major city. Read our full safety guide.
22. Watch for the Tea House Scam
Friendly stranger invites you to a "local tea house" — the bill is hundreds of dollars. Politely decline and keep walking.
23. Use Didi to Avoid Taxi Scams
Some taxi drivers take longer routes or "forget" to start the meter. Didi has fixed pricing and GPS tracking.
24. Don't Flash Cash or Expensive Electronics
Petty theft is rare but pickpocketing happens in crowded tourist areas. Keep your phone in a front pocket.
Bonus Tips
25. Be Flexible
China is big, things change, and not everything goes as planned. The best travel experiences come from unplanned moments.
For cost planning, see our China travel cost guide.
Need more personalized advice? Use our AI Trip Planner — we'll give you a custom checklist based on your specific itinerary, travel dates, and interests.