China Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors
Practical, up-to-date guides to visas, mobile payments, internet access, trains, hotels, and the apps you need for a smoother first trip to China.
Start Planning Your Trip ↓Start here
Prepare Your Trip
Follow these four steps in order, or jump directly to the part of your trip you are working on.
Before You Fly
Entry preparation, documents, essential apps, and a practical pre-departure checklist.
Stay Connected
Choose an eSIM or SIM, understand internet access, and prepare the services you will need.
Pay in China
Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay and know what to do if a payment method does not work.
Travel & Stay
Book train tickets and accommodation with fewer surprises after you arrive.
Recommended reading
Essential China Travel Guides
These guides cover the decisions that cause the most confusion for first-time visitors.
First Trip to China Checklist
A practical list of documents, apps, payments, connectivity, and booking tasks to complete before departure.
Internet Access in China for Tourists
Compare eSIMs, local SIM cards, roaming, Wi-Fi, and the access limitations you should prepare for.
How to Pay in China as a Foreigner
Set up mobile payments, add an international bank card, and keep a reliable backup payment option.
How to Book China Train Tickets
Understand booking platforms, passport checks, ticket collection, and boarding procedures.
Latest Updates
Recently published and updated travel guides.
Which Hong Kong–Shenzhen Border Crossing Should You Use? (2026 Guide)
Last updated: August 7, 2026 Guide: Which Hong Kong–Shenzhen Border Crossing Should You Use? The best Hong Kong–Shenzhen border crossing depends on…
Hong Kong to Shenzhen: Complete Travel Guide (2026)
Last reviewed: August 6, 2026 Best for: International visitors traveling from Hong Kong or Hong Kong International Airport to Shenzhen for the…
How to Use Taxis and DiDi in China as a Foreigner (2026)
Last reviewed: August 5, 2026 Best for: First-time international visitors who want to use street taxis, DiDi, or Amap ride-hailing in mainland…
China Hotel Check-In for Foreigners: 2026 Guide
Last reviewed: August 5, 2026 Best for: Foreign visitors checking into a hotel in mainland China with a passport. Hotel check-in in…
How to Book Hotels in China as a Foreigner (2026 Guide)
Last reviewed: August 2026 Best for: First-time international visitors who want to reserve accommodation before arriving in mainland China. If you need…
First Trip to China Checklist: What to Do Before You Fly (2026)
Everything you need to do before flying to China — visas, apps, payments, and SIM cards.
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