What to Know Before Traveling to China: A Practical Guide

China, with its rich history, diverse culture, and rapid modernization, is a top destination for travelers worldwide. From the Great Wall to the bustling streets of Shanghai, from the spicy cuisine of Chongqing to the serene water towns of Jiangnan, China offers a wealth of experiences. However, due to differences in language, culture, and daily life, foreign travelers need to prepare thoroughly and keep a few key tips in mind. This guide covers everything you need to know for a safe and enjoyable trip.

1. Visa and Entry Preparation

Visa Application

Most foreign travelers need to apply for a tourist visa (L Visa) in advance. Prepare your passport, application form, photo, and travel itinerary, and submit them to the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country. Citizens of some countries (e.g., Singapore, France) enjoy visa-free entry, while travelers from 53 countries (e.g., the U.S., U.K.) can take advantage of the 144-hour or 240-hour transit visa exemption.

Important: Confirm your visa’s validity and allowed stay duration. Overstaying may result in fines or deportation. For transit visa exemptions, you must have a confirmed ticket to a third country.

Entry Procedures

Upon arrival at a Chinese airport (e.g., Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport), you’ll need to fill out an arrival card and go through immigration. First-time visitors aged 14 to 70 will have their fingerprints collected.

Prohibited Items: Fresh fruits, meats, and illegal items (e.g., drugs, weapons) are not allowed. Declare cash exceeding 5,000 RMB or valuable items.

Document Backup

Carry your passport at all times and keep photocopies or digital copies (stored on your phone or email) in case of loss.

2. Transportation and Navigation

Getting Around

Flights: Domestic flights are extensive, making it easy to travel from cities like Beijing or Shanghai to destinations like Chongqing.

High-Speed Trains: Fast and punctual (e.g., Beijing to Chongqing takes about 7 hours), with tickets costing 500-700 RMB. Book in advance on 12306 or platforms like Trip.com.

Subway and Buses: City subways (e.g., Chongqing Lines 1, 2, and 3) cost 2-7 RMB and have clear English signage. Buses are cheaper (1-2 RMB) but routes can be confusing.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Taxis start at 10 RMB. Apps like Didi require an international credit card or Alipay.

Navigation and Language

Maps: Google Maps is restricted in China. Download Baidu Maps or Gaode Maps (available in English) for offline navigation.

Language Barrier: English is not widely spoken, especially in smaller cities. Use translation apps like Google Translate or Baidu Translate, or write down your destination in Chinese for drivers.

Tips: Chongqing’s hilly terrain calls for comfortable shoes. During holidays (e.g., National Day, Spring Festival), expect heavy traffic and plan accordingly.

3. Food and Health

Dining in China

Chinese cuisine is diverse, with Chongqing famous for its spicy dishes like hotpot and noodles. If you’re not used to spicy food, start with milder options or request “mild” (微辣).

Water Safety: Tap water is not drinkable. Buy bottled water (e.g., Nongfu Spring, 2-5 RMB). Restaurants usually don’t provide free water, so bring your own or order tea.

Health Tips

Stomach Issues: Spicy food may cause discomfort. Carry stomach medicine (e.g., Pepto-Bismol) and avoid unlicensed street vendors.

Air Quality: Chongqing can be foggy in winter. Sensitive travelers may want to wear a mask.

Medical Services: Major cities have international hospitals (e.g., Chongqing Medical University First Hospital). Bring your insurance details and any necessary medications.

4. Cultural Etiquette and Behavior

Social Etiquette

Greetings: Handshakes are common, but avoid overly intimate gestures. Address people as “Mr.” or “Ms.” followed by their surname (e.g., “Mr. Li”).

Photography: Follow signs at tourist sites. Avoid taking photos of people or military facilities without permission.

Queuing: While order is valued, pushing in lines can happen during peak times. Stay patient.

Taboos

Avoid discussing sensitive topics like Tibet or Taiwan. Don’t smoke in no-smoking zones or stick chopsticks upright in rice (a funeral symbol).

Festivals and Customs

Spring Festival (late January or early February): Expect crowds but a festive atmosphere. Local events like Chongqing’s Hotpot Festival are worth experiencing.

5. Payments and Internet

Payment Methods

Mobile Payments: WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate, but cash is still accepted. Foreigners can try linking international cards or exchange money at airports (1 USD ≈ 7 RMB as of March 2025).

Cash and Cards: Carry 200-500 RMB for small purchases. Visa/Mastercard are accepted in major cities but not at small shops.

Internet Access

Firewall Restrictions: Google, Facebook, and WhatsApp are blocked. Download a VPN (e.g., NordVPN, ExpressVPN) beforehand, though connections may be unstable.

Local Alternatives: Use WeChat for messaging, Baidu for searches, and Gaode Maps for navigation.

SIM Cards and WiFi: Buy a SIM card from China Mobile or China Unicom at the airport (50-100 RMB with data). Hotels and cafes often offer free WiFi.

6. Safety and Laws

Personal Safety

China is generally safe, but watch for pickpockets in crowded areas like Chongqing’s Hongya Cave. At night, stick to well-lit streets.

Terrain Warning: Chongqing’s steep slopes and steps can be slippery, especially in the rain.

Legal Matters

Hotel Registration: Present your passport when checking in. Some homestays may not accept foreigners, so confirm in advance.

Drug Laws: Drug possession or use carries severe penalties.

Visa Compliance: Don’t overstay or engage in activities not permitted by your visa (e.g., working). Violations may lead to fines or deportation.

Emergency Contacts

Police: 110; Fire: 119; Ambulance: 120. Save your embassy’s contact details. Chongqing has consulates for the U.S., U.K., and other countries.

7. Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer pleasant weather. Avoid summer heat and winter humidity. Major holidays like Spring Festival and National Day are crowded, so book early.

Budgeting

• Flights: International tickets cost 2,000-10,000 RMB; local transport 50-100 RMB/day.
• Accommodation: Budget hotels 200-500 RMB/night.
• Food: Meals range from 20-100 RMB depending on the venue.

Itinerary Ideas

Chongqing Travel Guide: Spend 3 days exploring Jiefangbei, Hongya Cave, and the Yangtze River Cableway. Extend your trip to Wulong Karst for 2 more days.

Language Tips: Write down Chinese addresses or use photos to communicate destinations.

Cultural Adaptation

Be open to trying spicy food and local customs (e.g., tea culture, night markets). If needed, international chains like McDonald’s are widely available.

8. Final Thoughts

Traveling to China is an adventure filled with surprises, but it’s essential to prepare for visa requirements, transportation, food, cultural differences, and safety. In cities like Chongqing, the steep terrain, spicy cuisine, and lively atmosphere can be both exciting and challenging. By planning ahead—downloading essential apps, learning basic etiquette, and staying flexible—you’ll navigate your trip with ease. Pack your curiosity and camera, and get ready to explore the wonders of China!