Arranging a journey to China may prove challenging for some non-resident travelers. Various obstacles often hinder their experiences.
Visa applications can be intricate, while international flights are limited and costlier at present due to reduced demand and escalating expenses for numerous airlines to traverse Russian airspace.
Navigating this highly mechanized society, boasting its digital realm, can be daunting, especially for first-time tourists. But, signs of transformation are evident.
China has intensified initiatives to attract global travelers post their restrictions lift after the pandemic at the closing of 2022. By implementing accommodating policies and encouraging private sector participation, the country now provides visa exemptions for numerous nations and has instated a 144-hour visa-free transit policy at a rising number of entry points.
Digital wallets like Alipay and WeChat have tailored their services and procedures to cater to foreigners by streamlining complex setup processes and accepting international credit cards. Local hotels and tourist attractions are also requested to accept international credit cards, which are not commonly utilized by Chinese merchants. Certain cities, such as Beijing, offer all-inclusive passes enabling electronic payments for services like admission fees and public transportation.
Data corroborates these measures' impact. China welcomed approximately 14 million foreign visitors in the first half of 2024, signifying a 152.7% growth from 2023, as reported by China's National Immigration Administration. About half of those travelers entered the country utilizing various visa-free policies.
Despite continuing far from pre-pandemic figures, where 98 million foreign visitors traveled to China in 2019, specialists in the field are optimistic regarding this upward trend.
"Thanks to the newly implemented 15-day visa-free policy for some countries, we have observed an increase in tourists from those regions over the past year or so," notes Denny Tian, a travel expert and manager at The China Guide, a Beijing-based private-tour travel agency.
Traveling in China in 2024
Gabriela Correia, a 25-year-old physician from Portugal, ventured to Shanghai and Beijing with her American companion in June of this year, entering the country under the 144-hour visa-free transit policy. Allowing tourists from 54 countries (including Portugal and the US) to make a stopover in various designated Chinese locations for up to six days on their way to a third country.
"Planning a trip to China presents a host of challenges unlike most places worldwide," says Correia, who has visited 47 countries so far.
"The information you can discover online is scant due to the relatively small number of Westerners venturing to China, and Google Maps is restricted within China."
Travel specialist Tian shares that the language barrier has long been a significant hurdle for international travelers.
"Many places only provide information in Chinese," he says. "Most service personnel do not speak English."
However, he advises that there are solutions to overcome these obstacles by utilizing translator apps. Also, some airports have taken additional measures by employing multilingual staff to welcome visitors in different languages.
"Not speaking Chinese definitely posed some challenges, but I would say that made this trip even more enjoyable," says Correia.
"People are incredibly welcoming and go above and beyond to make things work. We had an amazing experience in a tea specialty restaurant despite none of the staff speaking English. We deployed Google Translate's photo feature to translate the menu and made it all work out. We ended up enjoying cheesecake instead of our expected cheese bread for appetizers, but who doesn't appreciate an extra dessert?"
Correia hinted that she employed a travel SIM card with a built-in virtual private network (VPN) to access her preferred mobile apps such as Google Translate. (More insights on this in the following Q&A section.)
Correia also observes that numerous restaurants require diners to order via a QR code connected to Alipay, which now features a translation function integrated into the app, enabling international visitors to comprehend the menu.
The couple managed to have a fantastic trip exploring independently without knowing Chinese, yet they decided to engage a private guide for their Great Wall visit, "as it simplifies logistics and allows you to access lesser-visited sections of the Wall."
The couple was most impressed by "the diverse and abundant culinary traditions," the contrasting futuristic and historical colonial architecture alongside the waterfront in Shanghai, as well as the views and toboggan ride at the Mutianyu Great Wall in Beijing.
Correia asserts that the experience has altered her perspective on China and she is already planning their subsequent trip.
"I would say right now, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is at the top of my list for my forthcoming trip to China," she says, referring to a national park in Hunan province allegedly inspiring the landscapes in the movie "Avatar."
Preparing for your dream trip to this expansive nation? We have compiled a guide to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding China travel.
FAQs on China travel
Is a visa necessary to visit China?
This is where things can get quite convoluted. There have been numerous announcements and changes recently, and we will attempt to cover the essential aspects.
China has developed mutual visa exemption agreements with 23 countries, such as Singapore and Thailand, and a new unilateral visa-free policy for 15 additional passports.
These 15 countries currently enjoying visa exemption until December 31, 2025, are Austria, Australia, Belgium, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malaysia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Spain, and Switzerland.
Citizens of these countries can visit China for a maximum of 15 days uninterrupted without a visa.
In light of the speed at which diplomatic matters can evolve, it's wise to consult the China Visa Application Service Center or your country's foreign affairs website for the latest information on entry agreements before confirming your travel plans.
If your country isn't on the visa-exempt list or you prefer not to visit China on a layover (more details below), you will need to apply for a tourist visa.
Luckily, the application process for American tourists to China has become more straightforward since January 2024. Applicants are no longer required to present documents like round-trip air tickets, hotel reservations, itineraries, or invitation letters. You can find the updated list of required documents for tourist visa applicants on the China Consulate General in New York's website.
Citizens of other visa-requiring countries can visit China Online Visa Application to locate their closest processing center and fill out the online application form.
What are the 144-hour and 72-hour visa-free transit policies?
China offers two visa-free transit policies that allow travelers from select countries to stay in China for up to three or six days. However, this only applies to travelers who plan to continue on to a third country later.
Countries like Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States are among the 54 eligible nations allowed to transit through China for six days.
To comply with these policies, travelers must present proof of their connecting tickets for flights, trains, or ships, demonstrating their onward journey to a destination outside their original country of departure. Hong Kong and Macau are considered third destinations under these policies.
Despite the visa-free transit privilege, travelers face certain restrictions, particularly with regard to their destination choices. They may only travel within 41 designated ports in 19 Chinese provinces, including Beijing and Shanghai, and exploring the country via China's extensive high-speed railway network is not an option for those using the visa-free transit programs.
Correira and her boyfriend managed to obtain two visa-free transit permits by visiting another part of Asia between their visits to Shanghai and Beijing. For more information, check out the Shanghai government's comprehensive explanation of the visa-free transit policy.
Can I visit Tibet?
Travelers generally do not need to join a guided tour or group tour for most parts of China, unless they plan to visit the Tibet Autonomous Region.
International travelers are obligated to secure a Tibet Travel Permit prior to entering the region. This permit can be obtained by submitting an application through a certified travel agency, which also requires participants to join a group tour or arrange for a guided tour, a driver, a car, and hotel accommodation.
Do I need visas for Hong Kong and Macau?
Hong Kong, Macau, and mainland China have distinct visa requirements. Hong Kong offers visa-free entry for about 170 citizens for a period of 7 to 180 days. For specific visa requirements, visit the Hong Kong Immigration Department's website. On the other hand, 80 international citizens can enter Macau without a visa. You can find more information on the Macau Government's website.
What about Hainan?
Hainan, a southern Chinese island province often referred to as the 'Hawaii of China,' features a relatively lenient visa policy compared to the mainland. It offers 30-day visa-free entry to passport holders from 59 countries, but travelers under this policy are not permitted to leave the island to explore other regions of China.
Can I use my smartphone and apps in China?
Smartphones and applications can be used in mainland China, but popular apps like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Google are blocked. Using an international data roaming plan or a travel SIM card with a VPN will allow you to access these apps. However, once connected to local Wi-Fi, these restrictions will be reinstated. "A lot of websites we Westerners use are restricted in China," Correira explains. "WI-Fi in restaurants and hotels does not allow us to use Google, Instagram, Facebook, or WhatsApp, and if you buy a local SIM at your arrival, those restrictions still apply. My suggestion: definitely use an e-SIM that can be purchased in advance and activated there to evade these issues and stay connected with friends and family." E-SIM cards from companies such as Airalo or Airsim can ensure your devices function perfectly in China and provide unlimited access to essential apps.
Can I set up my smartphone for mobile payments?
Many people are concerned about making payments in China, believing that mobile payments have completely replaced cash. While cash is still widely accepted, it's essential to understand that international credit cards are not as widely accepted at local businesses and attractions as some might think. Several mobile wallet services, like WeChat Pay and Alipay, are accepted by most Chinese businesses. Both apps can be connected to international credit cards, with a transaction limit of US$500. To increase the limit, users can provide identification documents and phone numbers, with approval expected within a few days.
The apps might not be welcoming towards foreigners, as Chinese information frequently appears within them. Nonetheless, setting up the apps themselves is fairly straightforward for outsiders, according to Tian (The China Guide has provided a comprehensive guide on establishing an Alipay account).
If you wish to avoid utilizing the apps, you can opt for cash transactions and choose establishments such as eateries and hotels that accept international credit cards. Despite cash being valid, certain individuals, like taxi drivers, may not be receptive to it. Small denominations would be handy, as many small businesses might not carry change.
Beijing, on the other hand, has introduced the "Beijing Pass," a multifunctional travel card that covers public transportation fares and admission to numerous tourist attractions. You can acquire this card at airports and most metro stations.
Will businesses eventually start accepting international credit cards?
The response is primarily negative.
However, there's a possibility that developments are underway.
The Chinese government announced plans to make credit card acceptance mandatory in three-star hotels and above, as well as top-tier national tourist attractions and resorts.
Is China a safe destination to visit?
China claims to have a low crime rate.
Cautions against physical harm or threats against tourists, however, have prompted some nations to issue travel advisories and warnings for leisure travelers considering a visit.
The United States has imposed a Level 3 travel advisory for mainland China, advising citizens to reconsider travel due to the unpredictable enforcement of local laws.
Canada advises its residents to exercise extreme caution in China, citing the risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws.
Correira, a doctor, had reservations before embarking on her journey, particularly regarding political safety, considering the US State Department's Level 3 travel advisory for China.
Despite her apprehensions, she found the authorities to be welcoming and helpful, emphasizing the importance of maintaining respectfulness in any location. She felt secure throughout her trip and did not encounter any hostile encounters.
Handy apps to install before departing
In addition to the advice on setting up mobile payment systems and obtaining a travel e-SIM prior to your trip, several useful apps will streamline your adventure. Below are some recommendations:
Gaode Maps, or Baidu Maps
Google Maps is ineffective in China without a VPN, and even with one, navigation can be troublesome.
Gaode Maps and Baidu Maps work fairly well with pinyin, the romanization system for Chinese characters used in China.
For iPhone users, Apple Maps is also functional in China.
"After reaching our destination, navigation became much simpler than anticipated due to the flawless performance of Apple Maps," Correira shares her experience.
MetroMan
This transportation app covers major subway systems in China, providing information in English.
The app also includes a map feature that highlights nearby points of interest, including restaurants and attractions.
Most Chinese metro systems are modern and reasonably user-friendly, with bilingual signage.
It's essential to note that security checks are prevalent at many metro stations in China. Some checks are more stringent than others, resulting in bottlenecks during rush hours. In some instances, meandering through a metal detector may hinder your ability to board a train if you've recently shopped for knives or scissors.
Even if you don't use WeChat for its payment functionality, it's still a convenient tool for exchanging contact information with a local friend, perusing a restaurant menu, and purchasing high-speed railway tickets.
Numerous major Chinese e-commerce businesses, such as Didi (China's version of Uber) and 12306 (the digital platform for China Railway Company), have their own WeChat widgets or mini-programs.
Alipay
If WeChat's complexity is overwhelming, Alipay might be a better option. International and domestic versions of the app are available; the international version enables you to link your international credit card to it.
Didi
Didi is the ride-hailing app of China. You can connect the app with an international credit card.
Didi is also accessible within the Alipay and WeChat apps; if you have one of the payment apps, you can seamlessly hire a car directly without needing to download the Didi app.
Trip.com
Trip.com is the international travel booking platform of Ctrip.
Trip.com is an easy way to book high-speed rail tickets, attraction tickets, and hotels in China.
Baidu Translate
Baidu Translate is a free translation app developed by Baidu, China's leading search engine.
The COVID-19 pandemic had significant impacts on global travel, but China is now gradually welcoming more foreign tourists. For instance, they have implemented visa exemptions for multiple nations and a 144-hour visa-free transit policy at numerous entry points.
Despite the convenience of digital payment apps like Alipay and WeChat, many Western travelers may find it challenging to navigate China without a working knowledge of Chinese or English. To overcome this, some airports employ multilingual services to assist visitors in different languages.
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