Plan Your First Trip to China with Confidence
Visa-free entry, payments, SIM cards, trains, and easy itineraries for first-time visitors.
Quick Access
Do I need a visa?
Understand visa-free entry, transit rules, and what documents you need before you fly.
Can foreigners use WeChat Pay?
Learn how to pay in China with foreign cards, Alipay, and simple backup options.
How to get a SIM card in China
Compare airport SIM cards, eSIM options, and what works best for short trips.
Best first-time itineraries
Start with simple 7-day and 10-day routes that avoid unnecessary complexity.
First-Time China Checklist
- Check if your passport qualifies for visa-free entry or arrange a visa in advance.
- Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay with your foreign card before you arrive.
- Get a SIM card or eSIM for mobile data — do not rely on hotel Wi-Fi alone.
- Book high-speed train tickets in advance for popular routes.
- Plan your airport-to-city transfer before landing to avoid confusion.
- Download offline maps and translation tools before you fly.
- Carry some cash (RMB) as backup for small vendors and rural areas.
Popular Routes
7 Days in China
The essential first-timer route covering Beijing, the Great Wall, and Shanghai.
10 Days in China
Add Xi’an and the Terracotta Warriors for a more complete first-time experience.