Planning your first trip to China? This China travel advice guide covers the essential things international travelers need to know before arrival, including visas, payment apps, internet access, transportation, cultural tips, and practical travel preparation.
China is a modern and convenient destination, but some travel systems and daily habits may be different from what first-time visitors are familiar with. Knowing what to prepare in advance can help you avoid common issues and enjoy a smoother journey.
Before Visiting China: Essential Travel Preparation
Check China Visa Requirements and Entry Policies
The first step for any international traveler is confirming China’s entry requirements.
→ China Visa Guide 2026: Everything International Travelers Need to Know
Complete Your China Arrival Card Before Landing
Many first-time visitors are unfamiliar with China’s arrival procedures.
China has introduced digital services to improve the arrival experience for international visitors.
Learn more:
→ China Arrival Card Guide: How International Travelers Complete the Entry Form
Internet and Mobile Data Work Differently in China
One thing many first-time travelers wonder about is how to access the internet in China.
Unlike many countries, some international websites and apps may not work normally in China, and travelers need to prepare suitable options for mobile data and internet access before arrival.
Read our detailed guide:
→ How to Access the Internet in China: eSIM, SIM Cards, WiFi, and VPN Guide for Travelers
Download Important China Apps Before Your Trip
One of the most important China travel tips for first-time visitors is preparing your mobile apps before arrival.
China has a highly digital travel environment, and many daily activities rely on mobile services.
For a complete list:
→ Essential Apps for Traveling in China: Complete Guide for International Visitors
Mobile Payments Are the Main Way to Pay in China
One of the biggest differences first-time travelers notice is China’s cashless payment system.
In many countries, credit cards are the standard payment method. However, in China, QR-code mobile payments are widely used in everyday life.
Read our detailed guide:
→ How to Use Alipay and WeChat Pay in China for Foreign Travelers
China’s Public Transportation Is Modern and Convenient
Many travelers are surprised by how easy it is to travel around China.
For international visitors, high-speed rail is one of the most convenient ways to travel between major destinations.
Popular routes include:
- Shanghai to Hangzhou
- Beijing to Xi’an
- Chengdu to Chongqing
Learn more:
→ Public Transportation in China: High-Speed Rail, Metro and Travel Tips
Daily Life Differences You Should Know Before Visiting China
1. Tipping Is Usually Not Expected
Many visitors from countries with strong tipping cultures wonder whether they should leave extra money.
In China, tipping is generally not part of daily service culture.
You usually do not need to tip:
- Restaurant staff
- Taxi drivers
- Hotel employees
Good service is appreciated, but additional payment is not expected.
For private tours and personalized services, tipping remains a personal choice rather than an obligation.
2. Bottled Water Is the Normal Choice
Although tap water in Chinese cities is treated, most local residents do not drink it directly from the tap.
Travelers usually choose:
- Bottled water
- Filtered water
- Hotel-provided drinking water
Bottled water is affordable and easy to find in:
- Convenience stores
- Supermarkets
- Hotels
- Tourist areas
3. Prepare for Squat Toilets and Carry Tissues
Public toilets are widely available throughout China.
You can find them at:
- Tourist attractions
- Parks
- Train stations
- Shopping areas
Most public toilets are free.
However, international visitors may notice some differences:
- Squat toilets are still common
- Toilet paper may not always be provided
- Facilities vary depending on location
A small pack of tissues or wet wipes is recommended when traveling.
Cultural Tips for Traveling in China
Avoid Traveling During Major Chinese Holidays
Chinese public holidays can be a great way to experience local culture, but they are also the busiest travel periods, with larger crowds, higher hotel prices, and limited transportation availability.
If you prefer a more relaxed journey, consider traveling outside major holiday periods. For a detailed overview of seasons, weather, and the best travel months, check our guide to [Best Time to Visit China].
Learn Basic Chinese Phrases to Improve Your Travel Experience
English is available in many hotels, airports, and major tourist areas, but it is not widely spoken everywhere.
Learning simple Chinese phrases can make communication easier:
| Chinese | Pinyin | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 你好 | Nǐ hǎo | Hello |
| 谢谢 | Xiè xie | Thank you |
| 多少钱？ | Duō shǎo qián? | How much? |
| 可以刷卡吗？ | Kě yǐ shuā kǎ ma? | Can I pay by card? |
| 厕所在哪里？ | Cè suǒ zài nǎ lǐ? | Where is the toilet? |
| 不要辣 | Bú yào là | No spicy |
| 我听不懂 | Wǒ tīng bù dǒng | I don’t understand |
A simple greeting in Chinese can also create more friendly interactions with local people.
Understanding China Beyond Tourist Attractions
China is not just about famous landmarks.
Most travelers visit places such as:
- The Great Wall in Beijing
- The Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an
- The Shanghai skyline
- Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
- West Lake in Hangzhou
- Giant pandas in Chengdu
However, the most meaningful experiences often come from understanding the stories behind these places.
For example:
- Why Chinese people drink tea
- How ancient cities developed
- Why certain festivals are celebrated
- How local food reflects regional culture
Many cultural details are hidden in everyday life and are difficult to discover through sightseeing alone.
Travel China with a Local Expert
Preparing travel information online can help you avoid basic problems, but experiencing China deeply often requires local knowledge.
Many important details are not written in guidebooks:
- Which attractions are worth visiting at different times
- How to avoid crowds
- Where to experience authentic local culture
- How to understand historical sites beyond taking photos
A local travel expert can help you:
✓ Create a personalized China itinerary
✓ Arrange transportation and local experiences
✓ Explain cultural backgrounds behind attractions
✓ Reduce language and planning difficulties
✓ Discover a more authentic side of China
At China Insight Travel, we provide fully customized China travel experiences, including private tours, multilingual local guides, private transportation, hotel arrangements, and personalized itineraries for international travelers.
Whether you are visiting China for the first time or looking for a deeper cultural experience, we help you explore China comfortably, confidently, and meaningfully.
