25 Things to Know Before Visiting China: Essential First-Timer Tips

China will surprise you. Some things are easier than expected, others more challenging. The more you know going in, the smoother your trip will be.

Here are 25 things every first-time visitor should understand before arrival.

Technology and Internet

1. Google Doesn't Work

Gmail, Google Maps, Google Search, YouTube—all blocked. Download alternatives before you arrive:

• Maps: Baidu Maps or Apple Maps
• Search: Bing works
• Email: Set up a non-Google email or use VPN

2. Neither Does Most Social Media

Blocked: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X, WhatsApp, Snapchat, TikTok (the international version—Chinese Douyin works).

What works: WeChat (mandatory), Telegram (sometimes), Signal (sometimes).

3. VPNs Are Essential—Download Before Arrival

VPN apps are blocked in China, so you can't download them once there. Set up and test your VPN before your flight. See our VPN guide.

4. WeChat Is Everything

WeChat isn't just messaging—it's how China runs:

• Messaging
• Mobile payments
• Mini-programs (apps within WeChat)
• Official accounts (following businesses)
• Ticket booking
• Translation

Download it, set it up, add your card. WeChat Pay guide.

5. Cash Is Almost Obsolete

China is the most cashless society on Earth. Vendors at street markets, beggars, and temple donation boxes use QR codes. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay before arrival. Alipay guide.

Practical Matters

6. Download Everything Offline

Maps, translation language packs, guides, entertainment—download before you go or while on hotel WiFi. Mobile data can be spotty.

7. Bring a Power Adapter

China uses Type A (US-style) and Type I (Australian-style) outlets at 220V. Most modern electronics handle voltage automatically, but you need the right plug shape. See our adapter checker.

8. Water Isn't Safe to Drink

Don't drink tap water. Bottled water is cheap (¥2-3) and everywhere. Hotels provide electric kettles for boiling. Water safety guide.

9. Most Toilets Are Squatters

Public toilets often don't have Western-style seats. Learn the squat technique. Carry tissue—not always provided. Toilet guide coming soon.

10. Bring Tissues Everywhere

Toilet paper isn't standard in public restrooms. Napkins aren't provided at casual restaurants. Carry a pack of tissues at all times.

Culture and Communication

11. Learn a Few Phrases

English is not widely spoken outside major hotels and tourist areas. Even basic Chinese helps enormously:

• 你好 (nǐ hǎo) — Hello
• 谢谢 (xièxiè) — Thank you
• 这个 (zhège) — This one (point and say)
• 多少钱 (duōshǎo qián) — How much?

See our phrase guide.

12. Chinese Hospitality Is Intense

Hosts may insist on paying, order way too much food, and not take no for an answer. This is generosity, not pushiness. Graciously accept.

13. Personal Space Is Different

Queuing involves physical contact. Strangers will stare. Questions about age, salary, and marital status are normal conversation starters. None of this is rude in context.

14. Tipping Isn't Expected

Don't tip at restaurants, taxis, or hotels (except tour guides at international-style hotels). It can cause confusion. Tipping guide.

15. Bargaining Is Expected in Markets

Fixed prices exist in malls and stores. In markets, negotiate. Start at 30% of asking price. Bargaining guide.

Health and Safety

16. China Is Very Safe

Violent crime is rare. Scams are the main "safety" concern. Use common sense and you'll be fine. Safety guide.

17. Traffic Is Dangerous

Cars don't yield to pedestrians. Scooters ride on sidewalks. Look both ways constantly—even on one-way streets.

18. Air Quality Varies

Major cities have pollution issues. Check AQI forecasts and consider bringing N95 masks for bad days.

19. Bring Your Medications

Bring enough prescription medications for your entire trip plus extras. Carry a doctor's note. Some medications available at home may be restricted in China.

Travel Logistics

20. Book Train Tickets in Advance

High-speed rail is excellent but popular routes sell out. Book through Trip.com or at stations several days ahead. Train guide.

21. Many Hotels Can't Accept Foreigners

Not all hotels are licensed to register foreign guests. Book through international platforms (Booking.com, Agoda, Trip.com) to ensure your hotel accepts foreigners. Hotel guide.

22. You Need Your Passport Constantly

Keep your passport with you at all times. You'll need it for:

• Hotel check-in (legally required)
• Train tickets
• Attraction entries
• Police checks (rare but possible)

Make copies—digital and physical.

23. Chinese New Year Is Not Travel Time

If your dates overlap with CNY (late January/February), reconsider. The entire country travels. Prices triple. Many businesses close for weeks.

Similarly, avoid October 1-7 (Golden Week).

Expectations and Mindset

24. It's Not What You Expect

China isn't the mysterious ancient land of movies, nor is it the political caricature of news coverage. It's a modern, complex society with incredible infrastructure, fascinating contradictions, and people going about their daily lives.

Come with an open mind.

25. You Won't See Everything

China is enormous—4th largest country by area. Choose regions and experience them properly rather than rushing across the map. You'll be back.

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Pre-Trip Checklist

Before booking:

• Check visa requirements
• Verify passport validity (6+ months)
• Check travel advisory

Before packing:

• Download VPN and test it
• Download offline maps
• Download WeChat
• Download translation app with offline Chinese
• Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay
• Notify bank of travel
• Get power adapter
• Print hotel confirmations

To bring:

• Passport + copies
• Visa (if required)
• Medications + doctor's note
• Power adapter
• Tissues
• Small amount of cash
• Phone with apps installed

To know:

• First hotel address in Chinese
• Embassy emergency number
• Basic phrases
• VPN is working

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Want all this information in one place? The China Survival Kit is a comprehensive digital guide with offline access, tools, and everything you need from arrival to departure.