Beijing is a city steeped in history yet pulsing with innovation—a place where you can never explore all its ancient relics or taste all its Chinese delicacies. With palaces adorned in vermilion walls and green tiles, and the towering, winding Great Wall, both standing for millennia… what’s not to love? When you decide to come and experience its unique charm, there are a few things to prepare in advance.
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Visa: Confirm if you need a visa and the type (e.g., Tourist L Visa). Apply early and check validity/entries. Learn about the 144-hour visa-free transit policy (check if your country qualifies).
Connectivity: Buy a local SIM card (recommended), or enable international roaming/rent a WiFi egg. Essential: Set up a reliable VPN (for Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, etc.). Tip: A local SIM helps register apps offering discounts (e.g., milk tea, coffee, bike-sharing), saving costs.
Payment: Install WeChat Pay/Alipay (link Visa/Mastercard). Mobile payments are widely accepted. Carry some cash for emergencies.
Accommodation & Transport: Book hotels near subway lines. Download essential apps: Maps(Baidu/Amap), Translation (Google Translate, offline), Ride-hailing (DiDi International/WeChat Mini Program).
Health & Insurance: Get travel insurance covering mainland China. Bring regular medication + prescriptions (with English notes).
Power Adapter: China uses 220V, Type A/C/I sockets. Bring a converter.
It’s highly recommended to get a Chinese SIM card upon arriving in Beijing. With a local number, you can register for all the must-have apps for traveling in China — from navigation and food discovery to ride-hailing and food delivery. Pay close attention — this is crucial!
Maybe you have heard and seen some information about how to pay in China from friends or the Internet, as a native Chinese, let me tell you more and more accurate information, and be prepared so that you can immediately pay as a local when you arrive in China.
Airport Transport: Take the Airport Express train (fast/reliable) to downtown. Taxis/ride-hailing pick up at designated zones (use DiDi/hotel shuttle).
Hotel Check-in: Passport required for registration (foreigners scanned for records). Get the hotel’s business card (Chinese address/phone) for return trips.
Local SIM Card: Buy at airport/city carrier stores (passport required for registration) if not purchased earlier.
Transport Card: Buy an “Yikatong” Transport Card (subway/bus) at airport/subway stations; top up with cash. If using Alipay: Scan QR codes for subway/bus/bike rentals.
Exploring Chinese cities is easier than ever, thanks to a highly developed and affordable transportation network.
Whether you’re strolling the hutongs in Beijing, admiring skyscrapers in Shanghai, or exploring the ancient charm of Xi’an, this guide will help you travel like a local — with confidence
Attraction Booking: Most attractions are crowded. Many popular sites now offer easier on-site ticket purchase for foreigners (show passport). Exception: The National Museum requires booking 7 days ahead (via official WeChat accounts/travel platforms).
Carry ID: Always carry your original passport – required for attractions, hotels, and tickets.
Getting Around: Subway is most efficient (avoid rush hours). Use DiDi (English available). Buses: check directions. Bike-sharing (needs local number).
Food & Water: Eat at clean restaurants. Avoid tap water – drink bottled water.
Cultural Tips: Keep noise low in public. Queue patiently. Respect local customs at temples/hutongs; ask permission before photographing locals.
Toilets: Carry tissues (rarely provided). Many public toilets are squat-style.
Tax Refund: Get tax refund forms at participating stores. Process refunds early at airport (e.g., T3 Terminal) with passport, boarding pass, goods, and receipts.
Transport Card: Refund balance/deposit at designated subway stations, or keep as souvenir.
Arrive Early: Reach Capital Airport 3+ hours before international flights. Subway is the most punctual option from downtown.
SIM Card: No need to cancel short-term SIMs.
✦ 6 Essentials: Valid Visa • Original Passport • VPN • Mobile Payment/Cash • Attraction Bookings • Transport Card
✦ Plan Ahead: Book popular sites early • Download essential apps
✦ Passport = ID: Guard it closely – required everywhere!
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