East Asia
China
Travel in mainland China runs on a different operating system than most places - daily life is built around mobile payment, so setting up Alipay or WeChat Pay with an international card before you arrive saves real friction, since cash and foreign cards are accepted in fewer spots than you'd assume. Expect many familiar apps and sites to be blocked, which is why travelers sort out a VPN and download offline maps and translation tools in advance. Entry rules vary sharply by nationality and have shifted lately - including visa-free transit windows for some travelers - so verify the current policy with an official source before booking.
Last updated May 2026
Money & Payments
Currency
¥
Chinese Yuan Renminbi
CNY
Cash Tip
Bills and coins are in circulation.
Digital payment platforms (WeChat Pay and Alipay) dominate transactions in major cities, and some vendors do not accept cash.
Physical currency remains useful for emergencies and rural areas.
Card Rating
How widely cards and contactless payments are accepted
9 / 10.0
Digital platforms WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate daily transactions. Foreign visitors can link international credit cards to these platforms within their respective mobile apps without a domestic bank account. Major hotels and large restaurants accept international credit cards, while cash acceptance can be limited at small vendors.
Daily Budget
Estimated daily costs per person
Budget
Meals & Transit
¥100–¥200
Street food and local restaurants (¥15–¥40 per meal). Metro travel in cities (¥3–¥10 per trip). Budget-friendly and delicious.
≈ $14–$28
Meals & Transit
¥100–¥200
≈ $14–$28
Street food and local restaurants (¥15–¥40 per meal). Metro travel in cities (¥3–¥10 per trip). Budget-friendly and delicious.
Accommodation
¥100–¥210
Hostel dorm beds, capsule hotels, or basic guesthouses with shared facilities.
≈ $15–$30
Accommodation
¥100–¥210
≈ $15–$30
Hostel dorm beds, capsule hotels, or basic guesthouses with shared facilities.
Mid-Range
Meals & Transit
¥300–¥500
Casual restaurants and regional cuisine (¥50–¥120 per meal). Mix of metro and DiDi rides (¥30–¥80/day).
Entry & Documents
Visa Requirements
Check entry requirements for your passport
Select your passport to view visa requirements.
On the Ground
Power & Plugs
Voltage, frequency, and plug types
Type A220V50Hz
Type I220V50Hz
Type C220V50Hz
Bring a universal travel adapter to stay powered up regardless of plug type.
SIM Card Guide
Stay connected while traveling
Typical price range
¥100–¥200
Practical Info
Apps & Getting Around
Essential apps and transport info
- WeChatLocals mainlyRequires local SIM
Essential super-app for messaging, payments, and daily life. Full features require a Chinese phone number. Limited functionality for foreign users.
- AlipayForeigner-friendly
Digital payment platform. Foreign users can link international credit cards directly to make payments at merchants across mainland China without requiring a local bank account.
Transport
- DiDiForeigner-friendly
Ride-hailing application. Has an English interface for international users. Accepts international credit cards.
Navigation
- Amap (Gaode Maps)Foreigner-friendly
Localized mapping and navigation application for mainland China. Chinese interface but usable with translation.
Before You Go
Rules & Restrictions
Important laws and customs to be aware of
Always verify current laws before travel. Laws can change and penalties vary.
Legal
- A VPN is needed to access Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and most Western social media and services. Download and set up your VPN before arriving in China.
- Drug legislation is strictly enforced. Trafficking can carry the death penalty. Zero tolerance policy - even small amounts of recreational drugs can result in severe punishment.
- Criticism of the Chinese government, Communist Party, or political system is illegal and can result in detention. Avoid political discussions.
- Photography is restricted or prohibited at military installations, government buildings, and some border areas. Look for signs and follow instructions.
Cultural
- Respect cultural and religious sites. Remove shoes when required, dress modestly at temples, and do not touch or climb on historical artifacts.
Other
- Many Western websites and apps are blocked by the Great Firewall. Plan ahead by downloading offline maps, VPN apps, and any content you need before arrival.
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