China Travel FAQs


From cities to countryside, from Beijing and Shanghai to Xian and Guilin, there are always something to seek and explore in China. Come with us to see the most popular destinations recent years.

  • What is China's 240-hour visa-free transit and who qualifies?
    Short answer: ordinary passport holders from 57 countries can enter mainland China without a visa for up to 240 hours (10 days) when they are in transit to a third country or region. You need a passport valid for at least three months, a confirmed onward ticket with a date and a seat, and you must enter and leave through one of 65 open ports in 24 provinces. Tourism, business, visiting family and transit are allowed; work, study and journalism are not.... Details
  • Do I need a visa to visit China?​
    Short answer: it depends on your nationality. Citizens of 50 countries can enter mainland China without a visa for up to 30 days for tourism, business, visiting family or friends, exchange visits or transit. A further group of travellers can enter visa-free for up to 10 days (240 hours) when transiting to a third country. Everyone else needs a visa before departure.... Details
  • How far in advance should I apply for a Chinese visa?​
    It’s best to apply at least 4 to 6 weeks before your planned departure. Processing times at embassies/consulates typically take 4 business days, but it can take longer during peak travel seasons (e.g., Chinese New Year, summer holidays).... Details
  • Can I apply for a Chinese visa online?​
    Not entirely. China does not currently offer a fully online tourist visa application for most nationalities. In practice you complete the application form online, then submit your passport and supporting documents in person at a Chinese embassy, consulate, or authorised Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC).... Details
  • ​Is travel insurance required for China?​
    Travel insurance is not legally required, but it is highly recommended. It helps cover medical emergencies (which can be costly for foreigners), trip cancellations, lost luggage, and evacuation, especially since your regular health insurance may not work overseas.... Details
  • What’s the best way to get around China?​
    China offers an excellent range of transport options:... Details
  • Will my phone work in China? Do I need a local SIM card?​
    Your phone will work if it’s unlocked, but local carriers block many foreign apps, and your home data plan likely won’t work. Getting a local SIM card or eSIM gives you affordable data and calling, which is essential for navigation and bookings.... Details
  • Is Wi-Fi readily available in China? Can I access Google, Facebook, etc.?​
    Yes, Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, malls, and airports. However, Western platforms like Google, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp, and YouTube are blocked. To access them, you’ll need a VPN (download before arrival, as they’re blocked too).... Details
  • What currency is used in China? Should I bring cash?​
    The official currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY or RMB). While credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted in major hotels, malls, and international chains, cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay/Alipay) dominate daily life. Foreigners often found it difficult to set up Alipay/WeChat Pay without a local bank account, it is getting much easier to apply Alipay and Wechat Pay right now. When you get to the airports or railway stations, you can find posters suggesting the way to open Alipay or Wechat Pay account.... Details
  • Can I use my credit/debit card in China?​
    Visa and Mastercard are accepted in larger cities and international establishments, but many places — especially in smaller towns — only take cash, WeChat, or Alipay. UnionPay (China’s card network) is the most widely used.... Details