Travel Guides
Practical, honest advice for navigating China — from mobile payments and VPNs to safety tips and visa rules.
A Note from Qianyi
“These guides cover the practical things that trip up most visitors. I update them regularly as policies and apps change. Start with what matters most for your trip — if you're coming soon, the Alipay and VPN guides are essential.”
First Time in China? Everything You Need to Know (2026)
Apps, payments, SIM cards, transport, Golden Week and what nobody else tells you — written by Qianyi.
Available Guides
How to Set Up Alipay
Step-by-step guide to registering Alipay with your passport and linking an international card.
Read guideConnectivityBest VPN for China Travel
What's blocked behind China's Great Firewall and which VPNs actually work for travelers.
Read guideSafetyIs China Safe for Tourists?
An honest look at safety — common scams, solo female travel, LGBTQ+ considerations, and emergency info.
Read guideVisa144-Hour Visa-Free Transit
Everything about China's 6-day visa-free transit policy — eligible countries, airports, rules, and itineraries.
Read guideCultureFestivals & Events Calendar 2026
Month-by-month guide to Chinese New Year, Dragon Boat Festival, Harbin Ice Festival, and every major event worth planning around.
Read guideCultureAAAAA Scenic Spots Guide
The top 15 AAAAA-rated attractions in China — the country's highest quality designation for world-class scenic areas.
Read guideVisaChina Visa Guide
Tourist visa types, application steps, required documents, and the latest entry policies for visiting China.
Read guideMoneyWeChat Pay & Alipay for Foreigners
Step-by-step guide to setting up WeChat Pay and Alipay with an international card so you can pay like a local.
Read guideTransportHow to Book China's High-Speed Trains
Everything about China's bullet trains — booking on 12306, seat classes, luggage, and tips for a smooth ride.
Read guideSeasonalCherry Blossom Season in China
The complete guide to China's cherry blossoms — 700,000 trees in Guizhou, bloom forecasts, top 7 destinations, and practical tips.
Read guideMore Guides Coming Soon
These guides are in the works. Check back soon!
When to Visit China
Best times to visit by region, weather patterns, peak seasons, and festivals worth planning around.
Budget Guide
How much does China cost? Daily budgets for backpackers, mid-range, and luxury travelers.
What to Pack
Essential packing list for China — adapters, apps to download, medicines, and things people forget.
Travel Insurance
Do you need travel insurance for China? What to look for and recommended providers.
Currency & Cash
RMB basics, where to exchange money, ATM tips, and when you still need cash in cashless China.
SIM Cards & eSIM
Best SIM card and eSIM options for travelers, where to buy, and how to stay connected.
Mandarin Phrases
Essential Mandarin phrases for travelers — greetings, directions, food ordering, and emergencies.
Domestic Flights
How to book internal flights, which airlines to use, and airport tips for domestic travel.
Metro Systems
Navigating subway systems in Beijing, Shanghai, and other major cities — apps, tickets, and tips.
Taxis & DiDi
How to use DiDi (China's Uber), hail taxis, and avoid common ride-hailing issues.
Chinese Etiquette
Cultural do's and don'ts — tipping, chopstick manners, gift-giving, and social norms.
Food Guide
Regional cuisines, must-try dishes, how to order, dietary restrictions, and street food safety.
Health Tips
Vaccinations, water safety, air quality, pharmacies, and what to do if you get sick.
Emergency Info
Emergency numbers, embassy contacts, hospital tips, and what to do if things go wrong.