Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling to China
Practical Guide to Visiting China
Planning a trip to China for business visits, factory tours, or cultural exploration?
Here are some practical tips to help international visitors prepare for their journey.
From visa requirements to mobile payments, this guide answers the most common questions travelers have before coming to China.
1. China Visa and Tourist Visa FAQs
1. China Visa and Tourist Visa FAQs
1. China Visa and Tourist Visa FAQs
Planning a trip to China but confused about the visa process? Our comprehensive guide provides all the essential information, minus the jargon, so you can confidently prepare for your Chinese adventure!
- 240-Hour (10-Day) Visa-Free Transit Policy
- Types of Visas for China
- Documents Needed for a China Tourist Visa Application
- How to Submit Your China Visa Application
- Processing Time and Collection of Your Visa
2. Airport Pickup & Transportation
1. China Visa and Tourist Visa FAQs
1. China Visa and Tourist Visa FAQs
China’s major cities have modern international airports and efficient transportation networks.
However, navigating transportation for the first time can be challenging for international visitors.
Common transportation options include:
- Airport pickup service
- Private car with driver
- High-speed rail
- Domestic flights
For business delegations or study tours, we usually arrange private transportation and airport pickup, ensuring a smooth arrival and efficient travel between company visits.
3. Hotels & Accommodation
1. China Visa and Tourist Visa FAQs
3. Hotels & Accommodation
China offers a wide range of hotels, from international luxury brands to modern business hotels.
Popular hotel brands include:
- Marriott
- Hilton
- Hyatt
- InterContinental
Foreign visitors must check in with their passport, as hotels are required to register international guests.
For business visits and corporate study tours, we typically arrange hotels that are:
- Conveniently located near company visits
- Comfortable for international travelers
- Equipped with English-speaking staff
4. Payment in China
6. Language & Local Assistance
3. Hotels & Accommodation
China has become one of the most cashless societies in the world.
Mobile payments are widely used for everyday activities such as:
- Restaurants
- Transportation
- Shopping
- Convenience stores
The two most common payment platforms are Alipay and WeChat Pay.
For international visitors, Alipay is often the easiest option, as it allows foreigners to register without a Chinese bank account and link international cards such as Visa or Mastercard. This makes payments across China much more convenient.
Cash is still accepted in many places, but mobile payment is the most convenient way to pay in China.
5. Internet & Apps in China
6. Language & Local Assistance
6. Language & Local Assistance
Before traveling to China, it is helpful to download a few essential apps to make your trip easier.
WeChat
China’s most widely used app for messaging, payments, and many daily services.
Alipay
A major mobile payment platform. International visitors can link Visa or Mastercard to pay in shops, restaurants, taxis, and more.
Didi
China’s leading ride-hailing app, similar to Uber, for booking taxis or private cars.
Trip.com
A popular platform for booking hotels, flights, and high-speed train tickets in China.
Downloading these apps before arrival can make payments, transportation, and communication much smoother during your trip.
6. Language & Local Assistance
6. Language & Local Assistance
6. Language & Local Assistance
English is commonly spoken in international hotels and airports, but it may be less common in local areas or factories.
For business visits, it is highly recommended to have:
- A bilingual guide
- Professional interpreters
- Local coordinators
This ensures smooth communication and helps visitors gain deeper insights during company visits and industry tours.
Our team provides English-speaking guides, interpreters, and full visit coordination for international delegations visiting China.