China Travel Guide

China's optimized visa-free policy, together with several other measures aimed at enhancing international exchanges, has substantially increased the number of foreign travelers arriving in China. China has reached agreements or made arrangements to simplify visa procedures with over 40 countries and achieved comprehensive mutual visa exemption with more than 20 nations.

Policy

Which countries’ citizens are eligible for the 144-hour visa-free policy?

He/She must be a citizen of one of the countries entitled to the 72/144-hour visa-free transit (Please check the table below for the list of the countries entitled).

List of Countries Entitled to the 72/144-Hour Visa-Free Transit

European Countries (40)

Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, Russia, United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Belarus, Norway

American Countries (6)

United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile

Oceanian Countries (2)

Australia, New Zealand

Asian Countries (6)

South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, Qatar

What are the requirements and restrictions for entering China through the 24-hour visa-free policy?

China has implemented a 24-hour visa-free transit policy for citizens of all other countries around the world at all its accessible exit-entry ports. Foreign nationals holding valid international travel documents and connecting tickets with confirmed seats, who intend to transit via China by international flights, ships, or trains to third countries or regions, are exempt from visa applications, provided that their stay in China will not exceed 24 hours and that they will remain within the arrival ports. Those who plan to leave the ports must apply for temporary entry permits at the exit-entry border inspection authorities of the corresponding ports.

If I am not eligible for the visa exemption policy for the time being, how can I obtain a Chinese tourist visa?

Tourist visa (L Visa) Issued to those who intend to go to China as a tourist. Application: Basic Documents Supporting Documents Application Procedure, Processing Time and Fees Special Reminder Note 👉If you plan to apply for Chinese visa, please click China Online Visa Application(COVA)China Visa Application (COVA)

Which ports of entry are available?

China Visa-Free Transit Entry Ports (72/144 Hours)

72-Hour Visa-Free Transit

Hunan Province

Airport: Changsha Huanghua International Airport

Heilongjiang Province

Airport: Harbin Taiping International Airport

Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region

Airport: Guilin Liangjiang International Airport
Port: Beihai Port

144-Hour Visa-Free Transit

Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region

Airports:
- Beijing Capital International Airport
- Beijing Daxing International Airport
- Tianjin Binhai International Airport
- Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport
Railway Port:
- Beijing West Railway Station
Seaports:
- Tianjin International Cruise Home Port
- Port of Qinhuangdao

Shanghai-Jiangsu-Zhejiang Region

Airports:
- Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport
- Nanjing Lukou International Airport
- Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport
- Ningbo Lishe International Airport
Railway Port:
- Exit-Entry Port of Shanghai Railway Station
Seaports:
- Port of Shanghai
- Lianyungang Port
- Wenzhou Port
- Zhoushan Port

Guangdong Province

Airports:
- Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
- Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport
- Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport
Seaports:
- Nansha Port
- Shekou Port
Other:
- 36 additional exit-entry ports across the province

Liaoning Province

Airports:
- Shenyang Taoxian International Airport
- Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport
Port:
- Dalian Port

Shandong Province

Airport: Qingdao Liuting International Airport
Port: Port of Qingdao

Sichuan Province

Airport: Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

Fujian Province

Airport: Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport
Port: Port of Xiamen

Yunnan Province

Airports:
- Kunming Changshui International Airport
- Lijiang Sanyi International Airport
Railway Port: Exit-Entry Port of Mohan

Hubei Province

Airport: Wuhan Tianhe International Airport

Chongqing Municipality

Airport: Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport

Shaanxi Province

Airport: Xi'an Xianyang International Airport

Henan Province

Airport: Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport

What should I pay attention to if I hold a connecting ticket?

He/She must hold a valid international travel document (valid for no less than three months) that can prove his/her nationality and identity, and meet the conditions for entering a third country/region; He/She must hold a connecting ticket to a third country/region with a confirmed date and seat for departure within 72/144 hours or relevant certificates as per the amount of time applied for the visa-free transit, fill out the Arrival Card for Temporary Entry Foreigners, and accept inquiries from the entry-exit border inspection authority.

How to calculate the stay time under the 144-hour visa-free policy?

The calculation does not consider the actual time of arrival but starts counting from midnight the next day. Ensure your onward flight or travel to a third country or region is scheduled before the end of the 144-hour period. For Example: Arrival: You arrive in Beijing at 2:00 PM on November 20th. Start of 144-hour period: The clock starts at 12:00 AM on November 21st. End of 144-hour period: You must leave by 11:59 PM on November 26th.

What items are restricted from being brought into the country?

Weapons and Ammunition
Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances
Biological and Infectious Materials
Animal and Plant Products
Other Prohibited Items

How to Get Your Chinese Visa Renewed？

After entering China, foreigners should apply for a visa renewal at the Exit & Entry Administration Office of Public Security Bureau (at county level and above), if you meet one of these 4 circumstances: ① change the purpose of visiting and stay; ② issued a new passport (former passport will expire soon, or visa pages have been used up); ③ add companions after entry; ④ group tourists need to stay in China separately. If you fail to renew your China Visa, your current visa will become invalid, requiring you to exit, leave China, and return home. Bear in mind that illegal stay would be punished. When applying for a renewal of your China Visa, all foreign applicants have to submit the required documents, accept inquiry and follow the basic application processes.The authority will decide whether to issue a new Chinese Visa within 7 days from the date of acceptance.

What are the basic requirements of China Visa Renewal?

•Your valid passport (or valid international travel documents) and Chinese Visa;

•A completed Visa/Stay Permit/Residence Permit Application Form 《外国人签证证件申请表》;

•You can directly fill in a paper form at the office of the local police station or PSB, or download a Word/PDF version from official website and complete it.

•A recent 2-inches photo which was taken in the last 6 months, a full face, bareheaded;

•A completed Registration Form of Temporary Residence for Visitors;

•Other documents supporting your stay in China.

Payment

What are the commonly used payment methods in China?

Bank card, mobile payment, cash, bank account, and e-CNY.

How to use electronic mobile payment?

You can enjoy convenient payment services with just a mobile phone. Mobile payment services such as Weixin Pay, Alipay and UnionPay are available. For better payment experiences, no lD information is required for transactions under a certain amount.

Weixin Pay

Alipay

UnionPay

Tour Card

E-CNY

How to exchange currency in China?

(1) Overseas visitors to China can exchange foreign currencies for RMB cash in advance in relevant countries or regions before bringing it into China (each visitor is allowed to take up to RMB20,000 in cash in or out of the country).

(2) Overseas visitors to China can exchange foreign currencies for RMB cash at commercial bank branches, money changers, and self-service currency exchange machines at international airports, land ports, ports, and other entry ports, or withdraw RMB cash using international bank cards at ATMs.

Cash

You can withdraw RMB cash from ATMs that accept international bank cards at the port of entry, where you can also exchange other currencies for RMB through exchange service providers or self-service exchange machines. In downtown areas, you can still get RMB cash via these methods.

Authorized currency exchanges, some hotels, bank branches and currency exchange kiosks also provide currency exchange services. Usually, there is an eye-catching “exchange” sign on display so you may find them easily.

Kindly note that you can convert your remaining RMB cash back to your own currency or other major currencies in downtown areas or at the port of exit with the help of currency exchange service providers.

Bank Account

You can open a bank account with your passport or other valid IDs at any nearby bank outlet, such as the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China(ICBC), the Agricultural Bank of China (ABC), the Bank of China (BOC), the China Construction Bank(CCB), and the Bank of Communications (BOCOM). Please consult the staff at the bank outlet or visit their official websites for more information.

With the account, you can enjoy a variety of financial services (such as deposit and withdrawal of both RMB and foreign currencies, foreign currency purchase and sale, domestic transfer and crossborder remittance, foreign currency exchange, and making payment).

Do you need to pay for tips and taxes separately?

No Tips

Tipping is not expected in China, as most services include the cost in your bill. This practice keeps transactions simple and predictable. In restaurants, taxis, and hotels, you won't need to pay more than what your bill states. Instead of a tip, a polite thank you or a smile is greatly appreciated. This no-tipping culture helps you manage expenses and avoid social faux pas while respecting local customs.

Taxes

Whether you need to pay taxes when coming to China depends on your specific circumstances.

If you obtain income in China and meet the tax payment conditions stipulated by Chinese tax laws, you need to pay taxes. For example, if you obtain wage and salary income, labor remuneration income, remuneration for contributions, income from royalties, etc. while working in China, you generally need to pay personal income tax.

For individuals without a domicile in China and not residing in China, or individuals without a domicile but residing in China for less than one year, income obtained from within China shall be subject to personal income tax in accordance with this law.

If you are only on short-term tourism, visits, etc., and do not obtain taxable income, you usually do not need to pay taxes.

Can foreigners get tax refunds when shopping in China?

Eligible people for tax refund

•Foreign tourists and those from the Hong Kong SAR, Macao SAR and Taiwan who have stayed on the Chinese mainland for less than 183 consecutive days.

Tax refund requirements

• Goods valued over RMB500 purchased by a foreign tourist on the same day in one designated duty freestore.

• The goods must be unopened and unused.

• With the day of departure less than 90 days from theday of purchase.

• The goods must be carried by the foreign tourist or checked with the luggage.

Tax refund rate

11 % for the goods subject to a tax rate of 13%, 8% for goods subject to a tax rate of 9%.

Goods of tax refund

According to the announcement issued by the GeneralAdministration of Customs of China, goods of tax refund referto the personal articles purchased by foreign tourists atdesignated stores in line with the requirements for taxrefund, excluding items on the List of the People's Republic of China of Articles Prohibited from lmport and Export and the List of the People's Republic of China of Articles Restrict-ed from lmport and Export.

Application Form of Departure Tax Refund

Tourists who have purchased goods eligible for departure tax refund at designated stores need to claim the Application Form of Departure Tax Refund at the stores with valid lD orvalue added tax (VAT)invoices.

※Valid lD

Valid lD refers to passports that mark or can collect the last entry date of overseas passengers, Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents, Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents, etc.

Customs verification

Passengers need to take valid personal lD the purchased goods, Application Form of Departure Tax Refund and the VAT invoices of the purchased goods to the China Customs for verification.

Departure Tax Refund

Passengers should take valid personal lD, the verified Application Form of Departure Tax Refund and the VAT invoices ofthe purchased goods for tax refund in the tax refund agencies at the airport.

Tips

• The currency used for tax refund is RMB.

• Tax is refunded in RMB in cash or via bank transfer.

If the refund amount does not exceed RMB10,000, the tourist can choose cash refund or bank transfer.

If the amount exceeds RMB10,000, the refund agency shall transfer the money to the buyer's bank account.

Is it Convenient to Use Foreign Bank Cards to Pay in China?

Steps to Use Foreign Bank Cards with Mobile Payment Apps

Download and install WeChat or Alipay apps, and follow the instructions to register an account using a foreign or Chinese mobile phone number.
Bind the app with international bank cards (bearing Mastercard, Visa, JCB, Diners Club, or Discover logos) or Chinese bank cards (with the UnionPay logo).
Use the app to:
- Scan the collection QR code for payment.
- Display your payment QR code for others to scan.

Notes for Binding International Bank Cards

Authorization from the Issuing Bank
- When binding an international bank card to Alipay or WeChat, authorization from the foreign issuing bank is required.
- Some issuing banks may reject the request due to system compatibility issues. If this occurs, contact the issuing bank’s customer service center or use a Chinese bank card instead.
Service Fees for QR Code Payments
- No additional service fee is required for transactions up to RMB200.
- A service fee of 3% of the transaction amount applies to payments exceeding RMB200.
Transaction Limits
- Annual limit: USD50,000.
- Single transaction limit: USD5,000.
- Consider your specific use cases before relying on mobile payments with a bound international bank card.

Accommodation

Guide to Choosing the Perfect Hotel in China

When planning a trip to China, selecting the right hotel is one of the most crucial decisions. With thousands of options, it can be overwhelming to find a hotel that fits your preferences, budget, and comfort level. This guide provides essential tips and insights to help you make an informed decision.

💭 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hotel

Book your hotel room before visiting China using a trustworthy online booking platform or the official website of your preferred hotel brand.
Consider your itinerary, budget, and preferences when choosing a hotel and room type.
Ensure the hotel is authorized to receive international visitors by reading website instructions or contacting the hotel.

💰 Hotel Rates

Hotel prices vary by quality, location, and booking time:
- Budget-friendly options (under three stars): USD 30–50 per night.
- Three-star hotels: USD 50–80 per night.
- Luxury hotels (four to five stars): USD 80–200+ per night.
Peak travel season (April–October): Higher rates due to increased demand.
Slack season (November–March): Lower rates except for Chinese New Year (January/February).
In major cities, average room rates include:
- Beijing: USD 200
- Shanghai: USD 180
- Xi’an: USD 120

📋 Booking Options and Restrictions for Foreign Guests

Not all hotels in China are licensed to accommodate foreign guests.
Confirm the hotel's ability to host international travelers before booking.

🛄 Cancellation and Refund Policies

Check the hotel’s cancellation and refund policies before booking.
Flexible policies may suit travelers with uncertain plans, while stricter policies may not allow for changes.

🔖 Hotel Facilities and Amenities

Amenities to look for: air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, minibar, kettle, toiletries, hairdryer, and hot showers.
Specific needs (e.g., non-smoking rooms, accessibility features) should be confirmed with the hotel.
China uses a 220-volt, 50-Hz power supply; bring an adapter for 110-volt appliances.

🚖 Additional Services and Features

Look for extra services like airport/train station transportation, concierge support, on-site dining, and laundry facilities.
Verify availability for specific needs, such as business centers or childcare services.

👛 Payment Methods

Hotels accept cash (RMB), bank cards, WeChat, and Alipay.
Foreign travelers should confirm if international cards like Mastercard or Visa are accepted.
Some hotels also accept Apple Pay or PayPal; inquire in advance.
No tipping required: Tipping is not a customary practice in China.

🧑🏻‍💻 Hotel Reservations

Reserve a hotel via online platforms like Trip.com, by phone, or through a travel consultant.
Online bookings are convenient but may encounter language barriers; travel consultants can help.
Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.

🧑🏻‍💻 Checking In at the Hotel

Present your passport, confirm your reservation, and complete a registration form at check-in.
The hotel will then provide your room key.

🧳 Checking Out of the Hotel

Allow extra time for check-out, as staff may inspect the room for damages or missing items.
Return the room key and collect your deposit receipt (if applicable).
Inform staff of any assistance required for luggage storage or transportation.

By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay in China!

Transportation System

Transportation Tips for International Travelers in China

🗺 Commonly Used Route Query and Translation Apps

Maps: Baidu Map, Amap
Translation: Baidu Translate, Youdao

🚗 Can Foreigners Rent a Car and Drive by Themselves in China?

International travelers often use ride-hailing services via WeChat, Alipay, or the Didi-Greater China APP:

WeChat:
- Open the app, click on Me → Services → Mobility or Ride Hailing.
- Enter the pickup and destination locations to book a ride.
Alipay:
- Open the app, click on Transport → Taxi.
- Enter the pickup and destination locations to book a ride.
Didi-Greater China APP:
- Register with a foreign phone number and international credit card.
- Select services like Express, Taxi, Premier, or Luxe, then confirm your booking.

🚄 Booking Long-Distance Transportation

🚅 Train / High-Speed Rail

Ticket Purchase

Valid identification documents required for purchasing tickets:
- Passport
- Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card
- Foreigner's exit-entry permit
- Other approved documents
Booking channels:
- Online: Use the 12306 website, 12306 APP, or booking hotline.
- Railway stations: Buy tickets at ticket offices or self-service machines.

Identity Verification

Complete verification on the 12306 website/APP by submitting personal details or uploading passport information. Alternatively, visit a railway station for manual verification.

Payment Options

Online: Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay.
Offline: Cash, Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay at railway stations.

Ticket Changes and Refunds

Tickets can be modified or canceled via the 12306 website/APP or at railway stations. Service fees may apply.

For More Information

Visit the 12306 website: https://www.12306.cn/en/index.html.
Customer service hotline: 12306.

✈️ Airplane

Booking Options

Online via airline’s official app, WeChat mini programs, or third-party platforms.
At the airport ticket counters.

Payment Options

Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay, or cash (offline purchases).

Ticket Changes and Refunds

Modifications or cancellations can be done online or at the airport following the airline’s policies.

🚍 Recommended Modes of Short-Distance Transportation

🚇 Metro

Available in 55 cities across China.
Payment options:
1. Single tickets from self-service machines or ticket counters.
2. Metro pass applications at metro stations using your passport.
3. Use WeChat/Alipay:
  - Open Alipay → Transport → City → Obtain a QR code for metro access after identity verification.

🚌 Bus

Payment options:
1. Cash (exact change in RMB required).
2. Bus cards, purchased at bus company outlets.
3. Alipay: Open the app, go to Transport → City, and get a QR code for public transport.

🚕 Online Ride-Hailing Services

Available via WeChat, Alipay, or Didi-Greater China APP (supports foreign phone numbers and international cards).

🚲 Shared Bicycles (Didi Bike)

Open the Didi APP, tap Bike, and scan the QR code on a bike to unlock it.
End your ride by parking the bike in designated lots and locking it. Payment is automatically processed through the app.

Ⓜ️ Using Public Transportation Cards

Apply for metro passes in 55 cities at metro stations.
Use WeChat/Alipay to generate QR codes for metro entry.

Scenic spots

Transportation Tips for International Travelers in China

🗺 Commonly Used Route Query and Translation Apps

Maps: Baidu Map, Amap
Translation: Baidu Translate, Youdao

🚗 Can Foreigners Rent a Car and Drive by Themselves in China?

International travelers often use ride-hailing services via WeChat, Alipay, or the Didi-Greater China APP:

WeChat:
- Open the app, click on Me → Services → Mobility or Ride Hailing.
- Enter the pickup and destination locations to book a ride.
Alipay:
- Open the app, click on Transport → Taxi.
- Enter the pickup and destination locations to book a ride.
Didi-Greater China APP:
- Register with a foreign phone number and international credit card.
- Select services like Express, Taxi, Premier, or Luxe, then confirm your booking.

🚄 Booking Long-Distance Transportation

🚅 Train / High-Speed Rail

Ticket Purchase

Valid identification documents required for purchasing tickets:
- Passport
- Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card
- Foreigner's exit-entry permit
- Other approved documents
Booking channels:
- Online: Use the 12306 website, 12306 APP, or booking hotline.
- Railway stations: Buy tickets at ticket offices or self-service machines.

Identity Verification

Complete verification on the 12306 website/APP by submitting personal details or uploading passport information. Alternatively, visit a railway station for manual verification.

Payment Options

Online: Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay.
Offline: Cash, Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay at railway stations.

Ticket Changes and Refunds

Tickets can be modified or canceled via the 12306 website/APP or at railway stations. Service fees may apply.

For More Information

Visit the 12306 website: https://www.12306.cn/en/index.html.
Customer service hotline: 12306.

✈️ Airplane

Booking Options

Online via airline’s official app, WeChat mini programs, or third-party platforms.
At the airport ticket counters.

Payment Options

Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay, or cash (offline purchases).

Ticket Changes and Refunds

Modifications or cancellations can be done online or at the airport following the airline’s policies.

🚍 Recommended Modes of Short-Distance Transportation

🚇 Metro

Available in 55 cities across China.
Payment options:
1. Single tickets from self-service machines or ticket counters.
2. Metro pass applications at metro stations using your passport.
3. Use WeChat/Alipay:
  - Open Alipay → Transport → City → Obtain a QR code for metro access after identity verification.

🚌 Bus

Payment options:
1. Cash (exact change in RMB required).
2. Bus cards, purchased at bus company outlets.
3. Alipay: Open the app, go to Transport → City, and get a QR code for public transport.

🚕 Online Ride-Hailing Services

Available via WeChat, Alipay, or Didi-Greater China APP (supports foreign phone numbers and international cards).

🚲 Shared Bicycles (Didi Bike)

Open the Didi APP, tap Bike, and scan the QR code on a bike to unlock it.
End your ride by parking the bike in designated lots and locking it. Payment is automatically processed through the app.

Ⓜ️ Using Public Transportation Cards

Apply for metro passes in 55 cities at metro stations.
Use WeChat/Alipay to generate QR codes for metro entry.

Others

🗣️ Language

Chinese people are generally helpful, but not everyone speaks English. Learning a few simple Chinese phrases can go a long way:

"Ni hao" (你好): Hello
"Zai na li" (在哪里): Where is it
"Xie xie" (谢谢): Thank you

A reliable Chinese translation app is highly recommended for independent travelers. Show locals the Chinese translation when needed.

📶 Free Wi-Fi

China has widely embraced Wi-Fi, and you can find free Wi-Fi in most:

Cities
Public areas
Hotels
Restaurants

Use a Wi-Fi map or search "Wi-Fi near me" on your device to locate hotspots.

🔌 Power Plugs / Sockets in China

Mainland China: 220 Volts, 50 Hz AC
Taiwan: 110 Volts, 60 Hz AC

Ensure your electronic devices are compatible or use a power adapter.

👕 Respect Local Cultures

China is home to 56 ethnic groups, each with unique traditions, cultures, and habits.

Respect their cultures and religions.
When visiting temples:
- Wear long trousers.
- Avoid loud conversations or making jokes.

Experiencing these cultures firsthand will make your trip more meaningful.

🔄 Avoid Public Holidays

Best Travel Seasons:
- Spring: Warm, but with more rainfall.
- Autumn: Warm and drier.
Public Holidays:
During these times, travel costs increase, and flights, train tickets, and hotel rooms may sell out due to high demand.

👛 No Need to Tip

Tipping is not generally required in mainland China:

Hotels and restaurants: No tipping needed.
Exceptional service: You may tip to show appreciation.
Escorted tours: Tipping your guide is optional for excellent service.

Foreigners must abide by Chinese laws and regulations when writing comments on social media platforms in China.

🚫 Photography Restrictions

Foreigners are not allowed to photograph military installations, including:

Buildings
Sites
Facilities used for military purposes.