What's Easy in China vs What's Still Tricky
China has modernized fast, but some things remain challenging for foreign travelers.
Easy โ
Alipay now accepts foreign cards โ tap and go like Apple Pay
DiDi works with English interface, similar to Uber
World-class network, bookable with passport
Amap and Apple Maps work well in major cities
Still Tricky โ ๏ธ
Not all hotels accept foreigners โ always verify before booking
Many require Chinese ID to book online โ use Trip.com instead
Most restaurants have Chinese-only QR code menus
Passport verification needed, best done in advance
Set up Alipay before you fly
Most payments require scanning QR codes. Your foreign card works, but setup requires passport verification.
Only premium VPNs work in China
Install a VPN before departure. Free VPNs are blocked. Without one, no Google, WhatsApp, or Instagram.
Large hotels โ foreigner-friendly
Many Chinese hotels are not licensed for foreign guests. Always check before booking.
Book attractions with Trip.com
Chinese ticketing apps require local ID. Trip.com lets you book with your passport.
Stay Connected: Your #1 Priority
Without these two, your phone becomes a brick in China. Set up both before you fly โ takes 5 minutes each.
eSIM โ Buy Before You Fly
No physical SIM needed
Activate on landing, works instantly
Best for short trips (under 2 weeks)
VPN โ Install Before Departure
Access Google, WhatsApp, Instagram
Free VPNs are all blocked in China
Premium VPNs: 1-click setup
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Pre-Trip Preparation
Follow these steps in order. Each one takes about 5 minutes.
On the Ground
Everything you need once you're in China
Survival Guide
Tickets, hotels, and essential apps
Learn more โTransport
Subway, DiDi, and high-speed trains
Learn more โFood & Culture
How to order and what to eat
Learn more โSafety
Avoid scams and stay safe
Learn more โWeather
Check conditions across Chinese cities
Learn more โEmergency
Important numbers and contacts
Learn more โExplore China's Cities
In-depth guides for China's most popular destinations
What Travelers Say
Real experiences from visitors who used our guides
The payment guide saved me. I had no idea Alipay worked with foreign cards until I found this site.
I wasted 3 hours in Beijing trying to check into a hotel that didn't accept foreigners. Wish I'd read the hotel guide first.
The visa checker tool is brilliant โ told me in 30 seconds that I could enter visa-free. Saved me days of research.
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