Know Before You Go: 16 China Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Planning your first trip to China?

This country is a fascinating blend of ancient history and modern marvels but it can be a bit overwhelming for first-time visitors. That’s why it’s important to get familiar with some key China travel tips for first-time visitors before you go. Whether you’re curious about the best ways to get around, cultural norms, or practical things like mobile payments and safety, this guide covers what you need to know before visiting China.

From navigating local transport to understanding key cultural cues, here are things you need to know before visiting China:

 

16 China Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Visa for China

(Visa requirements and the eligibility for 144-hour visa-free transit)

Before you even set foot in China, you’ll need to make sure your visa is sorted out. Most visitors require a tourist visa, which you should apply for well in advance. Make sure you have your travel itinerary and accommodation details ready before applying. You will also need to fill out an online visa application on this site to take at your local embassy or consultant when applying.

For short stays in some cities, like Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing, and Chengdu, you might be eligible for the 24/72/144-hour visa-free transit policy. Please, check in advance whether the city you are planning to visit offers visa-free transit and whether you can leverage it based on your nationality.

UPDATE: Visitors of many nationalities can visit China visa-free for 30 days between November 30, 2024, and December 31, 2025.

The Chinese Great Firewall

(Using VPNs to be able to access Google, Instagram, YouTube, etc.)

One of the most essential things you need to know before visiting China, if you want to stay connected with family and friends, and the online world, is that China has something called The China Firewall. In simple words, this is Internet censorship and it blocks access to many popular websites and social media platforms, like Google, Facebook, WhatsApp, TikTok, and Instagram.

Not to worry tho, you can use a VPN and be able to access all those platforms, apps, websites, etc. that you use daily.

So, here comes my next and very important China travel tip. To be able to access those apps and websites, you need to install a VPN on your device BEFORE you arrive in China.

There are many VPN services on the market that you can choose from. I, personally, recommend the VPN services of 1.1.1.1 and VPN Bucks—both worked great for me and I haven’t had any connectivity issues with them. Another popular option is ExpressVPN. I had it installed and I had paid for it, but I couldn’t connect through it to any network. It seems that it works for some people but it didn’t work for me so therefore I cannot recommend it. Still, because a certain VPN might sometimes work for someone but doesn’t work for another, I 100% recommend having two VPNs installed.

TIP: Just in case you’re planning to work while in China and wondering, Outlook and Teams work there even without a VPN.

Must-Have China Travel Apps

(The mobile apps you need to help you communicate, navigate, and pay with ease)

There are a host of mobile apps that can make your trip to China smoother and more enjoyable. I’m not going to get into more details about this here as I wrote a dedicated article focusing on all the essential apps you need for China. So, if you’re interested in making your trip to China smoother with the help of apps (most of them are in my opinion mandatory to have), check out my other blog on the must-have China travel apps for tourists.

The Language Barrier

(… and how to overcome it)

The language barrier can be a significant challenge in China. While English is spoken in hotels and tourist areas, most locals don’t speak or understand it, especially outside the big cities. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language always goes a long way when traveling and the same is true for China, too. And although Mandarin isn’t the easiest of languages to learn in a short period of time, here are some key phrases to get you started:

• Nǐ hǎo (你好) – Hello
• Xièxiè (谢谢) – Thank you
• Duōshǎo qián? (多少钱) – How much?
• Wǒ bù huì shuō zhōngwén (我不会说中文) – I don’t speak Chinese

You’ll still need translation apps for more complex conversations and to be able to translate signs and menus that aren’t available in English.

Cash Isn’t Always King

(Do you really need cash in China?)

Perhaps one of the most essential things that you need to know before visiting China is that the country is rapidly moving towards a cashless society with the use of its payment systems, WeChat Pay and Alipay. I provide more information about those in the apps article that I linked above, but the main thing you should know, and maybe even my number 1 China travel tip is that you CAN’T survive in China without having them. During our 3 week trip through China, we didn’t use or need to use cash once.

In some rural areas, tho, cash might still be needed, so if you’re planning to visit such areas, make sure to check in advance. ATMs are widely available in cities, but make sure your debit or credit card will work abroad by calling your bank beforehand to tell them about your China travel plans.

Pack for the Season (and Destination)

(Be aware of the climate differences across regions)

As you know, China is huge and its climate can vary significantly depending on where you’re going and what time of year you visit. For example, Beijing experiences cold winters and hot summers, while Yunnan and Guangxi in the south are subtropical and mild year-round. With that being said, make sure to research the specific weather for your destination and pack accordingly.

When to Visit China?

(Best seasons to visit and weather considerations)

Timing your trip to China is crucial for getting the most out of your experience. The best times to visit are in the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are at their most picturesque. Summer can be hot and humid, especially in southern China, while winters can get extremely cold in the north, including Beijing and Xi’an.

The Chinese New Year (usually in January or February) and the Golden Week (early October) can be both a blessing and a curse: while they’re cultural experiences, travel during these times can be hectic, as domestic tourism surges and popular sites get extremely crowded.

If you’re a first-time visitor to China, spring and fall offer the most comfortable climate and less overwhelming tourist crowds.

Best Places to Visit in China

(Top cities and regions to explore)

China is vast, and choosing where to go can be a challenge, but there are a few must-visit destinations that should be on any first-time visitor’s itinerary:

Beijing:

The capital city is rich in history, home to the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the nearby Great Wall of China. It offers an incredible mix of imperial history and modern development. Check out my list of the best things to do in Beijing.

Shanghai:

China’s most cosmopolitan city offers a stunning skyline, the historic Bund, and world-class shopping and dining. Shanghai is also known for its futuristic architecture, vibrant nightlife, and cultural heritage. Check out my list of the best things to do in Shanghai.

Guilin:

For breathtaking landscapes, head to Guilin, where you can cruise along the Li River and see the stunning limestone karst mountains. Yangshuo was the nature highlight of our trip.

Guangzhou:

Guangzhou is a major commercial hub located in the Pearl River Delta. It’s known for its vibrant Cantonese culture, historic landmarks, and its role as a global trade center. Food lovers should not miss Guangzhou’s world-renowned dim sum and Cantonese cuisine. Check out my list of the best things to do in Guangzhou.

Xi’an:

Famous for the Terracotta Warriors, Xi’an is also home to ancient city walls and offers a glimpse into China’s imperial past.

Chengdu:

For nature lovers, Chengdu is known for its pandas and laid-back atmosphere. It’s also the gateway to exploring the Tibetan plateau.

Zhangjiajie:

This national park inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar and offers some of the most incredible natural scenery in China.

Shenzhen:

Located just across the border from Hong Kong, Shenzhen is a rapidly developing tech and innovation hub. Here, you can have your food delivered by a drone, see robots doing room service in hotels, and even visit futuristic showrooms displaying the latest in artificial intelligence and smart home technology. Shenzhen is perfect for those interested in seeing the technological development of modern China.

No matter your travel interests, China has something for everyone, from historical landmarks and bustling cities to pristine nature and ancient villages.

Visiting the Great China Wall

(Badaling, Mutianyu, or Jinshanling section?)

No trip to China is complete without a visit to The Great China Wall. But with several sections to choose from, which one is best for first-time visitors? I think that doing your own research to understand better the pros and cons of each section is definitely important so you can make the most of your visit to one of the New World Wonders.

With an estimated total length of 21,196.18 km, there are numerous sections through the country that you could visit, but here, we will take a look at the pros and cons of the three most famous ones that are a short distance away from Beijing, Badaling, Mutianyu, and Jinshanling.

Badaling:

This is the most popular section of the Great Wall, located just 70 km from Beijing. It’s the most accessible and the busiest, but it’s fully restored and great for those with limited time. If you choose to visit the Badaling section of the Great Wall, be prepared for crowds.

Mutianyu:

This section is the one that we visited and is around 73 km from Beijing. The wall here is well-preserved and less crowded, making it perfect for a first-time visitor who wants a more peaceful experience. There’s also a cable car to make the climb easier, and for those looking for a fun descent, you can toboggan down.

Jinshanling:

For those looking for a more adventurous and less-touristy experience, Jinshanling is about 140 km from Beijing. It’s partly restored, offering a blend of original wall ruins and sections that have been maintained. This area is ideal for hiking enthusiasts, as it offers breathtaking views with fewer visitors.

For most first-time visitors, Mutianyu strikes the best balance between accessibility, scenic views, and fewer crowds, making it a top choice in any China travel tips for first-time visitors guide.

Get Used to Squat Toilets

(Normal for some, cultural shock for others)

So, for me, growing up in Bulgaria where squat toilets are also a thing, this wasn’t a big deal for me, but I understand for some people from Western Europe or the USA, this can be quite the cultural shock. Western-style toilets are common in hotels and modern shopping centers or restaurants, but squat toilets are still prevalent throughout the country, especially in public places like parks, metro stations, smaller restaurants, and rural areas.

I was very impressed in Beijing where there are public toilets throughout the entire city and you can use them for free. I think that it is very convenient and also I don’t support having to pay for such a basic human need, so absolutely loved that. However, my point is that those toilets and all other squat toilets I used throughout the country were super clean and well-maintained.

TIP: Bring toilet paper or tissues with you, as many public restrooms don’t provide it. Also, hand sanitizer is a good idea since soap isn’t always available.

Embrace China’s Public Transportation

(China has one of if not the best public transportation systems)

One of the top China travel tips for first-time visitors is to take full advantage of China’s excellent public transportation. China’s public transportation is world-class, especially in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou. The metro systems in these cities are cheap, clean, and easy to use. Stations and trains often have signs in English, and you can use metro cards or apps to make your travel more convenient. Buses can sometimes be more convenient and taxis, if you prefer to use them, are reasonably priced.

TIP: Through Alipay, you can easily pay for the metro or a bus. Didi (China’s version of Uber) is also available in Alipay.

Train Travel in China

(High-speed and ultra-modern rail)

China’s train network is one of the most efficient in the world, especially the high-speed bullet trains (also known as G-series trains). These trains are fast, clean, and punctual, making them a popular choice for both locals and tourists. The experience is much more comfortable than flying, with spacious seats, smooth rides, and the chance to take in beautiful scenery. A journey from Beijing to Shanghai is over 1,300 kilometers and takes around 4-5 hours by high-speed train, and it’s much more comfortable than flying.

Trains in China are super clean and always on time. The toilets in the trains are similar to hotel or restaurant toilets. Snacks and meals are available to purchase on board and there is also a hot water dispenser so you can make yourself tea or noodles.

TIP: Book train tickets in advance, especially during holidays, as they get sold out quickly.

Air Quality in China

(Tips for monitoring AQI)

China’s air quality can vary drastically, particularly in large cities like Beijing. Checking the AQI (Air Quality Index) daily is a good habit, especially if you have any respiratory sensitivities. Apps like AirVisual can help you monitor air pollution levels. On days when pollution is high, consider wearing a mask.

Cultural Etiquette

(Social customs, dining, and more)

There is so much one can learn about the Chinese culture but still there are some key things travelers should know before visiting China so they can behave respectfully. One of those things is that handshakes are common in formal settings, but in more personal situations, a slight bow or nod can show respect. Chinese people may also avoid overly enthusiastic greetings like hugs and kisses. Personal space norms are different too, so don’t be surprised if people seem direct or speak loudly in public spaces—this is not considered impolite in Chinese culture, but rather normal communication, especially in busy environments.

Additionally, sharing food is central to Chinese culture, and meals are usually served family-style. Don’t stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice—it resembles incense at funerals, which is bad luck, nor point them at people.

Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or government issues. Also, tipping is generally not expected, so you don’t need to worry about it in most places.

Beauty Services in China

(Scalp spa, facials, and more)

You might have heard that many people travel to South Korea for the quality and affordability of beauty services and procedures. Well, did you know that you can get all those same treatments and procedures in China, too—and some are even cheaper than in South Korea? Whether you’re looking for a relaxing facial, a rejuvenating scalp spa, or an indulgent massage, China has a booming beauty industry offering high-quality services at surprisingly low prices.

For example, the scalp is taken seriously in China, where scalp spas focus on deep-cleansing the scalp, restoring balance, and promoting hair growth. These treatments usually involve soothing massages, herbal treatments, and specially formulated shampoos, all aimed at improving your hair’s health from the roots up.

Facials and skincare treatments in China are a great way to pamper yourself while traveling. Many spas use natural ingredients like ginseng, green tea, pearl powder, and herbal extracts to cleanse, hydrate, and nourish the skin. Traditional tools such as jade rollers and gua sha stones are often incorporated into the facial process, helping with lymphatic drainage, reducing puffiness, and improving facial contour. These techniques, rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, are known for enhancing skin circulation and promoting a healthy, glowing complexion.

Not only are these facials highly effective, but they are also surprisingly affordable compared to Western standards. I, for example, got a facial in Shanghai for less than 15 EUR, and the experience was as luxurious and professional as you’d expect from a high-end spa.

Is China Vegetarian & Vegan Friendly?

(Chinese love meat so much that even a tofu dish is likely to contain meat)

One of the most common things you need to know before visiting China—especially if you’re vegetarian or vegan—is that Chinese cuisine often includes meat in some surprising places. Even dishes that seem plant-based, like tofu, may contain small amounts of meat, often for flavor. However, with the rise of health consciousness and international influences, it’s becoming easier to find vegetarian and vegan options in major cities.

In rural areas, it might still be difficult to find vegetarian or vegan options, but cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu have a growing number of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants, especially in international districts. Make sure to do your research so you can plan your visit accordingly and also learn some key phrases in Mandarin, such as ”I am vegetarian” or “I don’t eat meat”.

I hope that this article gave you a good overview of what you need to know before visiting China. If you have any additional questions or comments, please let me know in the comment section below, and don’t hesitate to contact me.

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Thank you for reading,

Bilyana