Visa
Many nationalities qualify for visa-free or transit visa-free entry; check the latest official rules for your passport.
Read guide
China travel guide · 2026Travel to China —
Travel to China —
first time made easy
Visas, payments, transport and etiquette: what you need to know before you go, in plain English.
Quick answers
6 questions every traveler asks
Best time
Spring and autumn suit most regions; a specialist advises by destination and your dates.
Read guideMoney
Alipay and WeChat Pay are most common and accept international cards; carry a little cash too.
Read guideGetting around
High-speed rail links most cities, leaving from downtown — often faster than flying.
Read guideLanguage
Big cities and sights have English signs; a translation app helps day to day, and guides speak English.
Read guideSafety
Generally safe for visitors; keep your passport and valuables secure.
Read guideBefore you go
What to know before you travel to China
Planning your first trip
A first trip to China can feel like a lot of information. Fix your number of days and two or three regions, then link them by high-speed rail and the plan becomes clear. Our tours are built on real routes — look first, then adjust to your dates.
Visas, safety and payments
Visa rules have changed a lot in recent years, so check the latest official rules for your passport before you go; we remind you when confirming your trip. Mobile payments come first, with cards and cash as backup.
Before you land
Download map, translation and payment apps, and keep your passport with you — hotels and trains both need it. We can send a checklist before departure.
Guide library
China travel guide library
9 guides · 9 live
Featured · TransportYour First Train Journey in ChinaBooking, boarding and choosing a seat — what visitors need to know about high-speed rail.6 min readTransportYour First Train Journey in ChinaBooking, boarding and choosing a seat — what visitors need to know about high-speed rail.6 min read 
PlanningPlanning your first trip to ChinaHow to match days, cities and pace.7 min read 
PlanningBest time to visit ChinaChoosing dates by region and season.6 min read 
Visa & entryVisa and entry rulesHow to check visa-free, transit and visa options.6 min read 
MoneyHow to pay in ChinaMobile payments, cards and cash.5 min read SafetyStaying safe in ChinaDocuments, valuables and everyday safety.5 min read 
DestinationsThings to do in ZhangjiajieOrder and days for Wulingyuan’s core areas.8 min read 
DestinationsFenghuang Ancient Town guideMaking the most of a night on the Tuo River.6 min read 
TransportChangsha to ZhangjiajieRail, coach or group transport.5 min read A country that defies expectations
- 1.4B+
- People
- 45,000+
- km of high-speed rail
- 34
- Provincial-level regions
- 56
- Ethnic groups
Frequently asked
China travel FAQ
The questions travelers ask most before a first trip. If yours is not here, ask us — replies are free.
Ask a questionDo I need a visa?
It depends on your passport and length of stay. Many nationalities qualify for visa-free or transit visa-free entry, but rules change, so check official Chinese sources before you travel.
How do I pay in China?
Alipay and WeChat Pay are the most common and accept international cards. Bring an international credit card and a little cash as well.
Can I travel China without speaking Chinese?
Yes. Big cities and major sights have English signs and translation apps work well; on our tours, guides and drivers help you communicate.
How many days should a China trip be?
For a first visit, 7–10 days covers two or three regions; our current Hunan tours run 3–5 days and can combine with other cities.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring and autumn are comfortable in most regions, but it varies a lot. Tell us your dates and we advise by destination.
Create your ideal China trip
Tell us where you want to go, your dates and interests — a specialist designs a private itinerary for you, free of charge.
Start customizing