With China’s recent changes to the transit visa policy, it’s easier than ever for travelers from certain countries to visit, especially if you're just passing through. If you're planning a trip to China, here are some important things you should know to make your visit smooth and enjoyable.
Visa and Entry Policy
China has now extended the stay for transit travelers from 72 hours to 240 hours (that’s 10 days!) for citizens from 54 countries, including the US, UK, Russia, and Brazil. If you're one of those travelers and you're passing through China on your way to a third country, you can enter through one of 60 open ports of entry without needing a visa. Just keep in mind, this only applies if you're traveling through one of the designated airports or border checkpoints.
If you're not eligible for the visa-free transit, you’ll need to apply for a tourist visa before you arrive. Make sure your visa is valid, and try to prepare all your documents in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.
New Airports and Areas to Visit
China has opened up more airports for travelers to enter, including places like Taiyuan (Shanxi Province), Yangzhou (Jiangsu Province), Wenzhou (Zhejiang Province), and many more. This means you can now visit even more parts of the country without worrying about your visa. Depending on which province you’re in, the areas where you can travel might be bigger too – in some provinces, like Anhui and Hainan, the entire province is open for travel, while in others like Jiangxi, you'll be limited to a few cities.
Health and Safety
Before traveling, it’s always a good idea to have a health checkup, especially if you're coming from a country with recent health advisories. When you enter China, you may have to go through a health check at the airport, like temperature checks, so it’s best to stay healthy during your trip.
In case of an emergency, the number to dial for police is 110 and for medical help is 120. It’s also helpful to have travel insurance, just in case anything unexpected happens, like losing your luggage or getting sick.
Language and Culture
While Mandarin is the official language, don't worry if you don't speak it – many people in big cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou speak at least a little bit of English. Still, it can be useful to learn a few basic phrases, like how to say "hello" (你好, nǐ hǎo) or "thank you" (谢谢, xièxiè). Using a translation app on your phone can also be a lifesaver when trying to communicate.
As for cultural norms, Chinese people are very polite and value respect. It’s common to show courtesy when meeting people, such as handing over things with both hands, and it’s also considered polite to not make too much noise in public spaces.
Getting Around
China’s public transport system is one of the most convenient in the world. In major cities, you can take the metro, buses, and even high-speed trains to get around. Mobile payment systems like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used, so setting up one of these apps on your phone will make your life a lot easier.
Taxis are also easy to get, especially with apps like Didi, which is China’s equivalent of Uber. Just make sure to confirm the driver's information before getting in.
Money and Payments
The local currency is the Renminbi (RMB), also known as the Yuan. You can exchange money at the airport, banks, or use international credit cards in many places. However, China is very much a cashless society, and it’s convenient to use apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay for almost all transactions, from shopping to paying for meals at restaurants.
Shopping
Shopping in China is an exciting experience. Whether you’re looking for high-end brands or unique local souvenirs, you’ll find something for everyone. However, be cautious when buying items in street markets, as some products may not be genuine. It’s safer to shop at established stores or malls.
While tipping isn’t common in China, if you receive exceptional service, you can leave a small tip, but it’s not expected.
Food and Water
Chinese food is a highlight of any visit! However, if you're not used to street food, it’s best to stick to cleaner places like restaurants or food courts to avoid getting sick. Also, tap water in China isn’t drinkable, so always stick to bottled water or boiled water.
Emergency Contacts and Insurance
It’s always a good idea to know your embassy's contact information in case anything goes wrong. Also, travel insurance is highly recommended, especially for health or lost belongings.
Leaving China
When it’s time to leave, make sure to double-check that all taxes and departure paperwork are sorted. If you’re flying internationally, keep track of your flight times and airport terminal details, as they can sometimes change.
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