Travel China.
Feel Ready.
Everything you need for a smoother journey — entry rules, easy payments, high-speed trains, everyday apps, accommodation and peace of mind.
Explore China with confidence.
Clear advice, helpful shortcuts and verified official resources — all in one place.
Three things to do
before you fly.
The easiest trip is the one you prepare for a little in advance.
Entry & Visas
Know which entry route applies to you. Ordinary visa-free entry, visa-free transit and a standard visa are different arrangements.
- Verify your passport's rules. Some nationalities qualify for visa-free short visits; others need a visa. Eligibility and permitted stay vary.
- 240-hour visa-free transit: as of August 2026, citizens of 57 eligible countries may qualify for up to ten days when transiting to a third country or region through designated ports and within permitted areas.
- Prepare your arrival information. Eligible arriving passengers can use China's official, free online arrival card service; paper and arrival-port options are also available.
- Keep onward reservations handy. Immigration officers may ask about accommodation and onward travel arrangements.
Payments in China
QR-code payments are part of everyday life. Set up at least one payment option before arriving — and keep a backup.
Register with your mobile number and complete any verification requested by the app.
Visa and Mastercard are commonly supported, though acceptance depends on the bank and payment scenario.
Ask the merchant which method they use. Check the final amount and any service fee before confirming.
Cards, cash and ATMs can be useful if a payment app fails or a merchant does not support your card.
Transportation
Travel across the country by high-speed rail, then explore individual cities by metro or ride-hailing.
High-speed trains
Use the official 12306 English website or app for train times and tickets. Foreign passengers can book with a valid passport; complete identity verification if prompted and travel with the same passport used to book.
Arrive early enough for station security checks and finding your platform. During holidays, book trains well in advance.
City transportation
Metro and bus payment methods vary by city. Station tickets, transit cards and supported transport QR codes are useful options. For taxis, use an established service and confirm the destination in the app.
Check the exact station in your ticket — large cities often have several.
Railway checks use your booking identity document.
Internet & Useful Apps
Make sure your phone works when you arrive. A few well-chosen apps will save time throughout your journey.
Choose how to connect
- International roaming: ask your carrier about China coverage, data prices and access to your usual services.
- Travel eSIM: check if your phone supports it and review the provider's Mainland China coverage before buying.
- Local SIM: operators can sell a domestic SIM to visitors with valid identification, typically a passport.
Some international online services may be unavailable or work differently on mainland networks. Check essential services and download travel details in advance.
Mobile payments and local services.
Messaging, payments and mini programs.
Official train ticket bookings.
Directions and local navigation.
Ride-hailing in supported areas.
Download offline language packs where available.
One smart habit
Save the Chinese name and address of your hotel, screenshots of reservations, and an offline copy of key travel documents.
Accommodation & Check-in
From international hotels to boutique courtyard homestays, comfortable stays are part of the experience.
- Check your passport at check-in. Use the same name shown on your booking and bring your original passport.
- Confirm the details. Ask about check-in times, bed configuration, stairs, payment and cancellation terms.
- Understand accommodation registration. Hotels register their foreign guests. For residences other than hotels, the foreign visitor or host must register within 24 hours of arrival.
- Online registration is now available nationwide. Since September 21, 2026, eligible non-hotel accommodation registration can be completed through official NIA digital channels or at local public security offices.
Safety & Getting Help
A little preparation goes a long way. Know who to call and keep essential information close.
Keep digital copies of your passport and travel insurance information in a secure location. Check medication import restrictions, emergency medical coverage and local opening hours before setting off. If your passport is lost, contact local police and your embassy or consulate.
For immigration and accommodation-registration questions, the National Immigration Administration offers the 12367 service hotline.
Your pre-flight checklist.
Tick off the essentials and copy your personal list for later.
Your China journey,
made a little easier.
Questions about visiting China or finding a distinctive place to stay? Reach out to Hidden China.