China

Travel tips for China: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards work almost everywhere. China is virtually cashless. While physical cards are rarely accepted, visitors can go completely cashless by linking foreign cards to Alipay or WeChat Pay, which are universally used for everything from street food to transit.

Try the food

Peking Duck (北京烤鸭): A crisp-skinned, wood-fired roast duck traditionally served with thin pancakes, scallions, and sweet bean sauce.
Xiaolongbao (小笼包): Delicate steamed soup dumplings filled with savory pork and a rich, hot broth.
Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐): Soft tofu set in a spicy, numbing, and bright red chili-and-bean-based sauce with minced pork.

Say it in Chinese

Hello: 你好 (nǐ hǎo)
Thank you: 谢谢 (xièxie)
Please: 请 (qǐng)
Excuse me: 不好意思 (bù hǎoyìsi)
How much is this?: 这个多少钱？ (zhège duōshǎo qián?)
The bill please: 买单 (mǎidān)
Yes / No: 是 / 不是 (shì / bú shì)
Goodbye: 再见 (zàijiàn)

Essentials

Voltage: 220V, 50Hz
Driving: Right side
SIM tip: Purchase a local SIM card at the airport from China Mobile or China Unicom, but ensure you have a VPN installed before arriving to access blocked Western apps.

Etiquette

Tipping is not customary in China and may even cause confusion or be politely refused.