
Visa & Entry Policies
Navigate visa requirements, documents and visa-free programs without surprises.
Are there any visa-free policies for visiting China?
A clear explanation of China’s main visa-free and transit visa-free policies, including 144-hour transit, 24-hour direct transit, Hainan visa-free entry and key warnings for travelers.
Do I need a visa to visit China?
A clear overview of when you do and don’t need a visa for China: unilateral visa-free entry, mutual visa-waiver agreements, transit visa-free options and cruise group policies, plus what to do if you’re not eligible.
What documents do I need to apply for a China visa?
A practical checklist for applying for a Chinese tourist (L) visa, including passport requirements, application form, photo, itinerary proof, invitation letters and proof of legal stay in the country of application.

Signature Itineraries & Routes
Mix and match ready-made itineraries plus the best ways to move between cities.
When is the best time to visit China?
A practical guide to choosing the best time to visit China by balancing weather, scenery and travel costs. For most travelers, spring and autumn are the ideal seasons.
What is the best way to travel between cities in China?
An overview of intercity transport in China for international travelers, with a focus on high-speed rail, plus when to use domestic flights, conventional trains and long-distance buses.
How to Choose Your Destinations in China
A practical guide to choosing where to go in China – from historic capitals and modern mega‑cities to natural wonders and minority regions.
Classic routes for first-time visitors to China
Suggested itineraries for first-time visitors to China, including the Beijing–Xi’an–Shanghai ‘Golden Triangle’ and themed trips focused on nature, culture, the Silk Road and Tibet.
Which dates should I avoid when visiting China?
A practical guide to China’s public holidays and Golden Weeks, explaining why they are challenging for travelers and how to plan around them.

Where to Stay
Decode hotel types, booking tips and foreigner-friendly stays.
What should I know before booking a hotel in China?
Key tips for international travelers booking hotels in China, including foreign guest eligibility, platform recommendations, hotel types and check-in procedures.
What types of accommodation are available in China?
An overview of accommodation options in China for international travelers, including international chains, mid-range business hotels, budget chains, hostels and boutique hotels/guesthouses.

Connectivity & Apps
Internet access options, must-have apps and VPN know-how for travelers.
The most important prep: Do I need a VPN?
A VPN guide for traveling in China: why you need a VPN, why it must be installed before departure, how it works, and how to choose the right VPN service.
How do I get online in China?
A complete guide to internet access and essential apps in China, including a comparison of three connectivity options and must-have app recommendations.
What are the 'lifesaver' apps for traveling in China?
# 6.2 What are the "lifesaver" apps for traveling in China? When traveling in China, you may find that many of your usual international apps don't work or have

Payments & Money
Master mobile payments, cash needs and backup options in a mostly cashless country.
Do I still need cash or credit cards in China?
Even though mobile payments are highly prevalent, foreign tourists still need to carry cash and credit cards when traveling in China. This article analyzes the usage scenarios for different payment methods and the best strategy.
Is China cashless? How do I pay for things?
An analysis of China's payment environment, covering Alipay, WeChat Pay, bank cards, cash and digital RMB, helping foreign tourists easily complete every payment in China.
As a foreigner, can I use mobile payment?
Detailed answers on whether foreign tourists can use Alipay and WeChat Pay in China, with step-by-step instructions for linking international bank cards, usage methods and important notes.

City Transportation
Everything from metros to high-speed trains for navigating Chinese cities.
Which platform should I use for booking tickets in China?
A guide for international travelers on the easiest way to book train tickets, flights and hotels in China, with a focus on how to use Trip.com effectively.
What are the best ways to get around Chinese cities?
Transportation options in Chinese cities are diverse, including metro, ride-hailing, taxis, bike-sharing and buses. This article provides international travelers with a detailed analysis of the characteristics, usage methods and applicable scenarios for each type of transportation.
How do I take the high-speed train in China?
A complete guide to traveling by high-speed rail in China, covering the full process from booking tickets and station security to boarding, luggage, seating and arrival, so international travelers can confidently experience China’s HSR.