Overview
Visiting China for the first time is exciting — and a little overwhelming. The country runs on different apps, different payment systems, different toilets, and different social rules. Things that work everywhere else (Google, WhatsApp, credit cards, tipping) simply don't work here.
But here's the good news: once you know the dozen or so things that are genuinely different, China becomes one of the easiest and most rewarding countries to travel in. The infrastructure is world-class, the food is incredible, the people are welcoming, and the costs are remarkably low.
This guide covers everything you need to know before and during your first trip — the essential apps, cultural do's and don'ts, food ordering tricks, health tips, and the common mistakes that catch every first-timer off guard.
The 5 Things You Must Do Before Landing
| Priority | Action | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Download & set up WeChat Pay + Alipay | Many places only accept QR code payment |
| 2 | Install 2-3 VPN apps | Google, WhatsApp, Instagram are blocked |
| 3 | Book major attractions online | Forbidden City, Great Wall sell out days ahead |
| 4 | Get a tourist SIM card or eSIM | You need data for payments, maps, and Didi |
| 5 | Save hotel addresses in Chinese characters | Taxi drivers and locals rarely speak English |
Before You Arrive: Essential Preparation
The most important preparation happens before you board the plane. Setting up mobile payments, VPN, and translation apps at home takes 30 minutes and will save you hours of frustration in China.
Apps You Must Download (Before You Land)
Critical rule: download everything before arrival. The App Store and Google Play are restricted inside China's Great Firewall. You cannot install most of these apps once you're there.
Payment Apps (Top Priority)
Alipay (支付宝) — the most foreigner-friendly option:
- Download the international version from your home App Store
- Register with your international phone number
- Link a Visa, Mastercard, or Discover card
- Use the "Tour Pass" to top up prepaid balance (minimum ¥100)
- Enable Face ID or fingerprint for payments
WeChat (微信) + WeChat Pay:
- Download and register with your international number
- Go to "Me" > "Services" > "Wallet" > "Add a Card"
- WeChat Pay accepts foreign credit cards only (not debit cards)
- You'll need to upload passport photos for identity verification
Set up both. Some vendors accept only Alipay, others only WeChat. Having both eliminates dead ends. For detailed setup instructions, exchange rates, and ATM tips, see our Currency & Payment Guide.
Other Essential Apps
| App | What For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Didi (滴滴出行) | Ride-hailing (China's Uber) | Register with international number; pay via linked card or Alipay |
| 12306 | Official train tickets | Register 2+ weeks ahead — passport verification takes 3-5 days |
| Trip.com | Hotels, flights, trains | English interface; accepts foreign cards; small service fee |
| Apple Maps | Navigation | Works without VPN; accurate in major cities |
| Baidu Translate | Translation | Works without VPN; photo/camera translation; offline mode |
| Microsoft Translator | Backup translation | Works without VPN; conversation mode; offline packs |
VPN Apps (Install 2-3)
Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and most Western services are blocked in China. You need a VPN:
- ExpressVPN (~$10/month) — most reliable for China
- NordVPN (~$7.50/month) — good split tunneling
- Surfshark (~$6/month) — best budget option
Install and test before departure. VPN provider websites are also blocked in China, making installation impossible once you arrive.
Alternative: International roaming eSIMs (Airalo, Nomad) route traffic through Hong Kong, bypassing the firewall without a VPN — excellent for short visits.
What Doesn't Work in China
The Great Firewall blocks all of these without a VPN:
| Blocked | Chinese Alternative |
|---|---|
| Google (Search, Maps, Gmail, YouTube) | Baidu, Apple Maps, QQ Mail, Bilibili |
| WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram | |
| Twitter / X | |
| Spotify, Netflix | QQ Music, iQIYI |
| Dropbox | Baidu Cloud |
Documents to Prepare
- Valid passport (6+ months validity beyond travel dates)
- Chinese visa or confirm visa-free eligibility
- 2-3 printed copies of your passport data page
- Hotel addresses printed in Chinese characters
- Travel insurance documents (printed — hospitals may ask)
- Prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's note
What to Pack
- Power adapter: China uses Type A (two flat pins, like North America) and Type I (two diagonal pins, like Australia) at 220V. Most hotel rooms have universal sockets. Verify your devices are dual-voltage (marked "100-240V").
- Toilet paper: Carry a small pack at all times — most public restrooms don't provide it
- Portable battery bank: Essential for keeping your phone alive (it's your wallet, map, translator, and ride-hailing app)
- KN95/N95 masks: For high-pollution days, especially in northern cities October-February
- Unlocked phone compatible with Chinese 4G/5G networks
At the Airport: Immigration & Getting to the City
Chinese immigration is straightforward but thorough. Expect fingerprint scanning, passport photo, and 20-45 minutes in the queue. Getting to the city is easy with airport express trains or Didi.
Immigration Process
- Queue at "Foreign Passport" lanes
- Fingerprints scanned (both index fingers)
- Photo taken by the camera at the booth
- Officers may ask: purpose of visit, where you're staying, length of stay — keep answers simple
- Processing time: 20-45 minutes including queue at major airports
Customs Rules
You must declare if carrying:
- More than ¥20,000 RMB cash or USD $5,000 equivalent in foreign currency
- More than 1,500ml of alcohol (above 12% ABV)
- More than 400 cigarettes
Strictly prohibited:
- Cannabis, CBD oil, and hemp products in any form — zero tolerance
- Seeds (fruit pits, flower seeds) without agricultural permits
- Fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat products
Getting to the City
| Airport | Best Option | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beijing Capital (PEK) | Airport Express train | ¥25 ($3.50) | 25 min to Dongzhimen |
| Shanghai Pudong (PVG) | Maglev + Metro | ¥50 ($7) | 8 min to Longyang Rd, then Metro |
| Shanghai Pudong (PVG) | Metro Line 2 | ¥7 ($1) | ~1 hour to People's Square |
| Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA) | Metro Line 2/10 | ¥4-6 ($0.60) | Direct to city center |
Didi works from all major airports — cheaper than unlicensed drivers who approach you in arrivals. Always use the official taxi rank or Didi.
SIM Card at the Airport
Buy a tourist SIM at the carrier counter in arrivals. Bring your passport.
Recommended: China Unicom — most compatible with foreign phones, English-speaking staff at airport counters. A 7-day SIM with 10GB costs ¥68 ($9.40). For more details, see our SIM card guides.
Getting Around China
China's transport infrastructure is world-class. Metro systems are clean and cheap (¥3-9/ride), Didi is safer and cheaper than street taxis, and high-speed rail connects cities at 350 km/h for a fraction of European prices.
Metro Tips
- Security screening at every station — bags go through X-ray machines, just like airports. Budget 5-15 extra minutes during rush hour.
- Pay with Alipay or WeChat Pay — scan QR at the gate. International contactless cards work at some stations in Beijing and Shanghai, but aren't reliable everywhere.
- Download MetroMan app — offline subway maps for all Chinese cities with English support
- Rush hours: 7:30-9:00 AM, 5:30-7:30 PM — extremely crowded in Beijing and Shanghai
Didi (Ride-Hailing)
- Always match the license plate in the app to the car before getting in
- Use "Share Trip" to send ride details to a contact
- SOS button connects to police (110)
- Auto-translate chat lets you communicate with the driver
- Avoid rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) — surge pricing adds 40-80%
- Didi Express Pool (拼车) is 30-50% cheaper if you're flexible
High-Speed Rail Tips
- Arrive 30-60 minutes early at large stations (security + finding your platform)
- Show passport + e-ticket QR code at the ticket gate
- Hot water dispensers in each car — bring your own cup
- Phone charging outlets at seats (Type A socket)
- Food trolleys come through regularly; dining car also available
- Book on 12306.cn for zero fees, or Trip.com for English interface (¥20-50 service fee)
For detailed transport costs, see our China Travel Budget Guide.
Taxis
- Always insist on the meter: "打表" (dǎ biǎo)
- Have your destination written in Chinese characters — verbal directions rarely work
- Didi is almost always better than street-hailed taxis: fixed pricing, GPS tracking, verified drivers
- Never follow unlicensed drivers who approach you at airports or train stations
Daily Life Essentials
A few daily life differences catch every first-timer off guard: squat toilets without paper, undrinkable tap water, different power outlets, and the universal need for your phone to do everything.
Toilets
- Squat toilets are standard in public restrooms, train stations, and many restaurants. Western-style sit toilets are in hotels, modern malls, and airports.
- Bring your own toilet paper. Most public restrooms don't provide it. A small tissue pack is essential daily kit.
- Some newer restrooms have paper dispensers at the entrance — free, but bring backup.
Drinking Water
Never drink tap water directly. Even locals don't — everyone uses boiled or bottled water.
- Hotels provide electric kettles for boiling tap water, or free bottled water
- Bottled water costs ¥2-3 at any convenience store
- Hot tea served at restaurants has been boiled — it's safe
- Be cautious with ice at small street stalls; reputable restaurants use purified water
Power Outlets
- Voltage: 220V / 50Hz
- Socket types: Type A (two flat pins) and Type I (two diagonal pins)
- Most hotel rooms have universal sockets that accept multiple plug types
- North American plugs often fit Chinese sockets, but verify your device is dual-voltage (look for "100-240V" on the charger)
- European plugs (Type C/E/F) need an adapter
Your Phone Is Everything
In China, your phone replaces your wallet, map, translator, taxi, and train ticket. If your phone dies, you're effectively stranded. Carry a portable battery bank, and keep your phone charged above 30% at all times.
Cultural Etiquette: The Do's and Don'ts
Chinese culture has specific social rules that differ significantly from Western norms. The most important ones to know: chopstick etiquette, face culture, and gift-giving customs.
Chopstick Rules (Non-Negotiable)
- Never stick chopsticks vertically in rice — this resembles funeral incense and is deeply offensive
- Never point at people with chopsticks — considered aggressive
- Don't tap your bowl with chopsticks — signals begging
- Use communal serving chopsticks (公筷) when provided for shared dishes
- Place chopsticks across the top of your bowl or on a rest when not using them
Face Culture (面子, Miànzi)
"Face" means social reputation and dignity. This is one of China's most important cultural concepts:
- Never criticize someone publicly — address issues privately and calmly
- Don't make someone look incompetent in front of others
- Declining hospitality too firmly can cause the host to lose face
- When something goes wrong, stay calm and composed — getting loud or angry in public is extremely counterproductive
Gift-Giving
- Use two hands to give and receive gifts, business cards, and anything of significance
- Never give: clocks (sounds like "attending a funeral"), shoes (implies walking away), pears (sounds like "separating"), or gifts wrapped in white or black
- Gifts may not be opened in front of you — this is custom, not rudeness
- Red and gold wrapping paper = auspicious
Other Cultural Notes
- Queuing: More aggressive than Western norms, especially at train stations and tourist sites. Don't hang back politely — assert your position
- Noise levels: China is significantly louder. Loudspeakers at tourist sites, loud phone conversations in public, and spirited group dining are normal — not rudeness
- Photography: Always ask before photographing individuals, especially elderly people, monks, and ethnic minorities. Photography is prohibited in many temples and museums.
- Bargaining: Expected at tourist markets and street stalls. Start at 30-40% of asking price. Never bargain at malls, chain stores, supermarkets, or restaurants.
Food & Dining Guide
Chinese food is the highlight of any trip, but ordering can be intimidating if you don't speak Chinese. Here's how to navigate restaurants, communicate dietary needs, and eat like a local.
How to Order at Local Restaurants
- Point at neighboring tables' dishes — the most universal method
- Picture menus are standard at mid-range and tourist-area restaurants
- WeChat camera translation — hold your phone over the menu for real-time translation
- QR code menus — scan the code on the table, then use WeChat's translator
- Key phrase: "这个" (zhège) = "This one" — point and say it. Works everywhere.
Dietary Restrictions
Useful phrases to show on your phone (or print and carry):
| Need | Chinese | Pinyin |
|---|---|---|
| I am vegetarian | 我吃素 | Wǒ chīsù |
| I don't eat meat | 我不吃肉 | Wǒ bùchī ròu |
| No pork | 不要猪肉 | Bùyào zhūròu |
| No shellfish | 不要贝类 | Bùyào bèilèi |
| Peanut allergy | 我对花生过敏 | Wǒ duì huāshēng guòmǐn |
| No MSG | 不要味精 | Bùyào wèijīng |
| Not spicy | 不辣 | Bù là |
Warning for vegetarians: Even "vegetable" dishes may contain bone broth, pork mince, oyster sauce, or lard. Always verify with kitchen staff. Buddhist temple restaurants (素食, sùshí) are the most reliably meat-free option.
Chinese Breakfast
Chinese breakfast is fundamentally different from Western breakfast — don't expect cereal or toast:
- Congee (粥) — rice porridge with various toppings
- Jianbing (煎饼) — savory crepe with egg and crispy wonton, ¥8-15 from street vendors. One of the best breakfasts in the world.
- Baozi (包子) — steamed buns with meat or vegetable filling
- Youtiao (油条) — fried dough sticks, often dipped in soy milk
- Hotels 3-star and above usually offer Western breakfast options alongside the Chinese spread
Drinking Culture
- Baijiu (白酒) is China's national spirit, 38-60% ABV. Served in small cups, always with food.
- "干杯!" (Gānbēi!) = "Cheers" — literally "dry cup," meaning finish your drink. Know what you're agreeing to.
- Hold your glass slightly lower than the person you're toasting — a sign of respect
- Fill others' glasses before your own
- If you can't drink: Tell the host privately beforehand. Substituting tea for alcohol ("以茶代酒") is widely accepted.
Health & Medical Tips
China has excellent medical infrastructure in cities. Pharmacies are everywhere, and most OTC medicines are available. The main health concerns are stomach adjustment, air quality in winter, and altitude in western regions.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (药店) are extremely common in Chinese cities. Major chains: Watson's, Tongrentang. Most common OTC medicines are available without prescription — use Baidu Translate to photograph packaging for translation.
Hospitals
Two tiers:
- Public hospitals (公立医院): Crowded, long waits, Chinese-language, but very cheap (consultations ¥10-50). International wards exist at major hospitals in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou.
- International/private hospitals: English-speaking staff, Western service standards, significantly more expensive. Beijing United Family Hospital, Shanghai Parkway Health, etc.
Emergency: Call 120 (ambulance). Get travel insurance that covers medical evacuation — see our safety guide for emergency numbers.
Common Health Issues
- Stomach adjustment: Very common in the first 2-3 days. Bring antidiarrheal medication and rehydration salts. Eat at busy local restaurants where food is freshly prepared.
- Air quality: A concern in northern cities (Beijing, Xi'an) from October-February. Monitor via IQAir app (works without VPN). AQI above 150 = wear KN95 mask outdoors. Masks cost ¥2-5 at any pharmacy.
- Altitude: Lhasa (Tibet) sits at 3,650m — most visitors experience symptoms. Lijiang (Yunnan) at 2,400m is generally manageable. Avoid alcohol for 48 hours after arriving at altitude.
Essential Mandarin Phrases
You don't need to speak Chinese to travel in China, but knowing 15-20 basic phrases makes everything smoother. Translation apps handle the rest.
| Phrase | Chinese | Pinyin |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | 你好 | Nǐ hǎo |
| Thank you | 谢谢 | Xièxiè |
| No thank you | 不用，谢谢 | Bùyòng, xièxiè |
| Sorry / Excuse me | 对不起 | Duìbuqǐ |
| I don't understand | 我听不懂 | Wǒ tīng bù dǒng |
| Do you speak English? | 你会说英语吗？ | Nǐ huì shuō Yīngyǔ ma? |
| Where is [X]? | [X] 在哪里？ | [X] zài nǎlǐ? |
| How much? | 多少钱？ | Duōshǎo qián? |
| Too expensive | 太贵了 | Tài guì le |
| I want this | 我要这个 | Wǒ yào zhège |
| The bill please | 买单 | Mǎidān |
| Delicious | 好吃 | Hǎo chī |
| Train station | 火车站 | Huǒchē zhàn |
| Airport | 机场 | Jīchǎng |
| I need a doctor | 我需要医生 | Wǒ xūyào yīshēng |
| Call the police | 叫警察 | Jiào jǐngchá |
Pro tip: Don't try to speak Chinese to communicate complex needs. Instead, type in English using Baidu Translate or Microsoft Translator and show the Chinese text on your screen. This is faster and more accurate than attempting pronunciation.
10 Common First-Timer Mistakes
These are the mistakes that catch nearly every first-time visitor to China. Avoid them and your trip will be dramatically smoother.
1. Not Setting Up Mobile Payments Before Arrival
This is the #1 mistake. China runs on WeChat Pay and Alipay. Street food vendors, restaurants, temples, bike shares, and even some public bathrooms only accept QR code payment. Set up both apps with linked international cards before you leave home.
2. Not Downloading VPN Before Entry
Once inside China, VPN provider websites are blocked. You cannot download or install a VPN from within China. Install 2-3 VPN apps before departure.
3. Not Booking Attractions in Advance
The Forbidden City releases tickets 10 days ahead and sells out within minutes during peak season. The Panda Base in Chengdu sells out on weekends. Book all major attractions online before your trip — use Klook or Trip.com for English-language booking.
4. Carrying Only Cash or Only Cards
Neither works alone. The optimal setup: WeChat Pay + Alipay for daily use, ¥500-1,000 cash in small bills for emergencies, and an international credit card for hotels.
5. Booking Only Through Western Platforms
Hotels on Booking.com or Expedia may not be licensed to host foreign guests. Use Trip.com's foreigner filter, or confirm with the hotel directly that they accept foreign passports.
6. Underestimating Distances
China is enormous. Beijing to Shanghai is 1,200 km. Shanghai to Chengdu is 1,900 km. Use high-speed rail for distances under 1,000 km; fly for longer routes. Budget a full day for any inter-city transit. For detailed transport costs, see our budget guide.
7. Traveling During Golden Week Unprepared
Golden Week (October 1-7) sees 800M+ domestic trips. Popular attractions hit 3-5x normal capacity. Chinese New Year (Jan/Feb) is similarly overwhelming. Book everything 3+ months ahead during these periods.
8. Relying on Google Maps
Google Maps requires a VPN and has coordinate accuracy issues in China due to mapping laws. Use Apple Maps (accurate, no VPN needed) or Amap (高德地图) instead.
9. Leaving Your Passport at the Hotel
You need your physical passport to: pick up train tickets, enter attractions booked under your name, check into hotels, buy SIM cards, and pass some security checkpoints. Always carry it.
10. Expecting English Everywhere
Major tourist cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an) have acceptable English signage, but step outside the tourist trail and English disappears completely. Always have your next destination and hotel address saved in Chinese characters on your phone. Your hotel front desk is your best resource — they can write addresses in Chinese, make reservations, and help communicate with locals.
Planning a trip to China?
Our travel experts can help you create a personalized itinerary based on your interests and budget.
Your Hotel Front Desk Is Your Best Friend
This deserves its own section. Your hotel's front desk staff can:
- Write your next destination in Chinese for taxi drivers
- Call restaurants to make reservations
- Book local tours and day trips
- Explain your situation to Chinese-speaking vendors or officials
- Help troubleshoot payment issues
- Print medical information in Chinese for emergencies
Make friends early. A small gift from your home country (chocolate, local snacks) goes a long way.
About the Author
This guide is maintained by the Gopagoda Travel Team, drawing on years of experience helping international travelers navigate their first China trips. We update this guide regularly to reflect current conditions, app changes, and policy updates. If you spot outdated information, contact us.
Editorial Standards
This guide is based on official Chinese customs regulations, current app documentation, firsthand team experience, and verified traveler reports from 2025-2026. We test all recommended apps and processes personally. Last verified: February 2026.
