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3-step plan Speak local What's on in China Tours & experiences

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Everything you need for China, step by step

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Sort the paperwork, lock the flights, land already connected.

Visa

Flights

Stays

Find hotels and short stays

Travel insurance

Cover for medical, trip & gear

eSIM

Get mobile data on arrival

Translate

Break the language barrier.

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Your trip plan

Land in China like you already know the place

A three-step plan from your couch to your first coffee in town. Each phase shows what locals actually use.

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Essentials in China

One tap to install — straight from the locals' shortlist.

Say it like a local — China

Essential phrases in the local language. Tap the speaker to hear it.

About China: China encompasses a vast and diverse territory in East Asia, stretching from the Gobi Desert in the north to tropical Hainan Island in the south, and from the Himalayas in the west to the Pacific Ocean in the east.

China encompasses a vast and diverse territory in East Asia, stretching from the Gobi Desert in the north to tropical Hainan Island in the south, and from the Himalayas in the west to the Pacific Ocean in the east. It is a populous country with a rich history, offering a blend of ancient cultural sites, modern megacities, and varied natural landscapes. Visitors include tourists drawn to landmarks like the Great Wall and Forbidden City, business travelers engaging with its economy, and students. While specific regions have distinct climates, generally the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather for travel across much of the country, avoiding the summer heat and humidity and winter cold. China’s cost level can range from budget-friendly outside major cities to expensive in places like Shanghai or Beijing, particularly for accommodation and dining in tourist-oriented areas. Overall, it is often considered mid-range to expensive for Western travelers, though local goods and services can be quite affordable. Intercity travel in China is efficient, primarily relying on high-speed rail for quick connections between major urban centers. Conventional trains and long-distance buses are also available for more economical or remote routes. Domestic flights are extensive but sometimes subject to delays. Within cities, extensive subway systems, public buses, and ride-sharing apps like Didi are prevalent. Payment in China is overwhelmingly cashless; WeChat Pay and Alipay are ubiquitous for everything from street vendors to department stores. It is essential to set up these apps with a valid payment method, preferably linking to an international credit card, before arrival, as cash is rarely accepted and physical credit card terminals are uncommon. Tipping is not customary in China and can even be considered impolite. For connectivity, local SIM cards are widely available from major carriers like China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom, though registration requires a passport. eSIMs are less commonly supported for international visitors. Driving in China is generally not recommended for foreigners due to complex traffic rules, language barriers, and challenging road conditions. Mandarin Chinese is the official language. While English proficiency is limited, especially outside of major international hotels and tourist attractions, younger generations in larger cities tend to have a better grasp of it. Translating apps are highly valuable. China is generally very safe, with low rates of violent crime; however, petty theft can occur in crowded tourist areas. Be aware of common scams, such as tea ceremonies, art gallery tours, or fake English students approaching you, all designed to overcharge unsuspecting tourists. Tap water is typically not safe to drink without boiling. Bottled water is readily available. Opening hours for shops and restaurants can vary, with many establishments, especially in smaller towns, closing during midday for a rest period. Always carry your passport or a copy, as identification may be requested. The weather can be extreme, with scorching summers and frigid winters depending on the region, so pack accordingly. Accessing many Western websites and apps, including Google services and social media platforms like Facebook, requires a VPN. It is advisable to have a VPN installed and working before arriving.