First-Timer Guide · Updated 2026
China Basics — Everything You Need to Know
The complete first-timer's guide: visas, apps, money, transport, and culture.
🛂Visa & Entry
Since late 2023/2024, China offers visa-free entry for 15–30 days for citizens of many European countries, including Switzerland. Double-check shortly before departure.
What You Need at Entry
- • Passport valid for at least 6 months
- • Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
- • Proof of hotel booking or accommodation address
At the border, you'll have your fingerprints scanned. China no longer stamps passports at many entry points — everything is electronic.
📶Internet & Connectivity
China operates the Great Firewall — Google, Gmail, YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and many Western sites are blocked.
2. Local Chinese SIM
Cheaper data, but requires passport registration at a carrier store.
3. VPN — Install Before You Fly
VPN websites are blocked in China. Download and test at home.
Essential Apps
- • WeChat — Messaging, payments, train tickets, food delivery
- • Alipay — Your digital wallet. Pay with QR code everywhere.
- • Baidu Maps — Google Maps doesn't work in China
💳Money & Payments
China is essentially a cashless society. Almost everywhere accepts payment via QR code. Cash is rarely used and often not accepted at all.
Alipay (Tourist Version)
Download the app, sign up with your passport, and link an international credit card.
WeChat Pay
More difficult for foreigners, but possible with a friend in China to verify you.
Tip: Load money onto Alipay once you're in China. Having both Alipay and some cash as backup is safest.
🚄Getting Around
🚅 High-Speed Rail (CRH)
Fast, punctual, affordable. Speeds exceed 300 km/h. Book via Trip.com or at the station with your passport.
🚇 Metro
Use your Alipay QR code to scan in and out. No physical tickets needed. English signage in big cities.
🚕 Taxi / DiDi
China's Uber. Download before you go. English interface available. Very affordable.
✈️ Domestic Flights
For long distances, often cheaper and faster than trains. Book via Trip.com.
🚶 Navigation
Use Baidu Maps or Amap. Google Maps does not work in China.
🏯Culture & Tips
Eating & Dining
Sharing dishes is the norm. Don't stick chopsticks upright in rice. Slurping is acceptable.
Tipping
No tipping culture. Don't tip at restaurants, taxis, or hotels.
Photography
Ask before photographing people. Never photograph military or government buildings.
Toilets
Squat toilets are common. Bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
Dress Code
Modest in temples and rural areas. Casual Western clothing is fine in cities.
Language
Very few speak English. A translation app is essential.
🛡️Safety
China is one of the safest countries for travelers. Violent crime is rare. You can walk around at night without worry.
Common Scams to Avoid
🍵 The Tea Scam
Friendly strangers invite you to a tea ceremony, then charge an outrageous bill. Politely decline.
🎨 The Art Student Scam
"Art students" pressure you into buying overpriced paintings. Firmly say no and walk away.
General Safety Tips
- • Carry a photocopy of your passport. Leave the original in your hotel safe.
- • Don't drink tap water. Only boiled or bottled water.
- • Bring N95 masks for poor air quality days.
🎒Packing List
Your essential checklist for China:
Tip: Download offline maps and translation packs before you go. Once in China, you won't be able to access Google services to set these up.
Ready for China?
You've got the basics. Now explore our city guides and itineraries.