Start Here
for China
Set up payments, mobile data, and transport basics before planning the rest of your trip.
Last reviewed: June 2026
Quick answer
Quick answer
Entry and arrival flow
Use this order from checking entry requirements before departure to settling into your first full day.
Visa Information
Check whether visa-free entry, visa-free transit, or a tourist visa applies.
Arrival Card
Complete the entry declaration before immigration if required.
Arrival in China
Follow immigration, baggage, customs, and first airport steps.
Airport to Hotel
Choose metro, taxi, ride-hailing, airport rail, or transfer.
First 24 Hours
Settle in, test payments and data, and prepare your first day.
Your first 3 steps
Start with these essentials before building a detailed itinerary.
Set up payments
Mobile payment is often the default in China. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay before relying on shops, restaurants, taxis, or attraction tickets.
- Link an international bank card if possible.
- Test the app before departure.
- Keep one backup payment method.
Set up mobile data
Internet access affects maps, translation, ride-hailing, payment verification, hotel communication, and QR-code tickets.
- Choose roaming, eSIM, or local SIM.
- Check whether SMS verification works.
- Install key apps before arrival.
Learn transport basics
Understand metro, taxi, DiDi, high-speed rail, and domestic flights before your first airport, station, or hotel transfer.
- Know when to use metro, taxi, DiDi, train, or flight.
- Save your hotel address in Chinese.
- Leave extra time for stations and security checks.
Printable checklists
Save the practical checklists
Four printable PDFs for preparation, arrival, payments, and daily travel.
Continue your trip setup
Next steps
Keep planning
Choose the next useful step.