FAQ & Survival Tips

Yes, a VPN is essential! Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and many international websites are blocked. However, VPN effectiveness varies - some work better than others, and performance can change. Download and set up multiple VPN services BEFORE arriving in China, as VPN websites are also blocked.

This is common! Have 2-3 backup VPN services ready. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark are popular choices, but no VPN works 100% of the time. Try switching servers, protocols, or using mobile data instead of WiFi. Hotel WiFi often blocks VPNs more aggressively than mobile networks.

Yes! You can buy prepaid SIM cards at airports, China Mobile/Unicom/Telecom stores, or convenience stores. You'll need your passport for registration. Airport SIM cards are convenient but more expensive. For longer stays, visit official carrier stores for better deals and English support.

eSIM is increasingly popular! Services like Trip.com eSIM, Saily, and others offer data plans that may include access to international websites without VPN. This can be more convenient than traditional SIM cards, especially for short visits.

It's possible but challenging. Major hotels, tourist attractions, and some restaurants accept international cards. However, street food, local shops, taxis, and many daily services are heavily cash or mobile payment dependent. Setting up at least one mobile payment method will dramatically improve your experience.

Both apps now support international cards (Visa/Mastercard) for tourists! Download the apps, complete identity verification with your passport, and add your international bank card. There may be transaction limits and fees for international cards. Alipay often has better English support and tourist-friendly features.

Exchange ¥1000-2000 before arriving for emergencies, taxis, and places that don't accept cards. ATMs are widely available in cities and usually accept international cards with reasonable fees. Notify your bank about travel plans. Many places now accept international cards, but cash is still essential for street vendors and small shops.

Yes, expect fees when using international cards with WeChat Pay/Alipay (usually 3% for amounts over ¥200). ATM withdrawals typically have fees from both your bank and the Chinese bank. Credit cards at merchants may have foreign transaction fees. Consider getting a travel-friendly debit card with low international fees.

Download city-specific subway apps (like "Metro Man" for Beijing) or use Google Maps offline. Most stations have English signs and announcements. Save screenshots of your route and destination in Chinese characters. Subway maps are usually bilingual in major cities. Ask station staff - many younger employees speak basic English.

Yes, Didi is generally safe and reliable. Download the app, set up payment (international cards accepted), and enable location services. The app tracks your trip and you can share your location. Keep some cash as backup. For language barriers, use the translate feature in the app or show your destination in Chinese characters.

Always carry your hotel's business card with Chinese address. Use translation apps with camera function for signs. Show pictures or maps on your phone. Ask younger people who often speak some English. Find subway stations or major landmarks as reference points. Most Chinese people are helpful to confused tourists - don't be afraid to ask!

Book online through Trip.com or 12306.cn (official site), or buy at stations. You'll need your passport for all bookings. Arrive at stations 30-60 minutes early for security checks. Tickets show seat numbers and car numbers in Chinese - ask staff for help finding your seat. Download translation apps to understand announcements.

Use Google Translate's camera feature to translate menus instantly. Point at dishes other diners are eating and say "我要这个" (wǒ yào zhège - "I want this"). Many restaurants have picture menus or food displays. Download Dianping app to see photos and reviews of dishes. Don't be shy about using gestures!

Generally yes, especially from busy stalls with high turnover - this ensures freshness. Look for places popular with locals, avoid anything that's been sitting out for hours, and start with milder foods until your stomach adjusts. Bring hand sanitizer and consider probiotics if you have a sensitive stomach.

Learn key phrases: 我不吃肉 (wǒ bù chī ròu - vegetarian), 我过敏 (wǒ guòmǐn - I'm allergic), 不要辣 (bù yào là - not spicy). Buddhist restaurants (素食) serve vegetarian food. In major cities, international restaurants and hotels cater to various dietary needs. Always carry allergy information in Chinese characters.

Good news - tipping is NOT expected in China! In fact, it might confuse or offend staff. This applies to restaurants, taxis, hotels, and most services. The price you see is what you pay. Some high-end international hotels or Western restaurants might accept tips, but it's not required or expected.

English proficiency varies greatly. In major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen, younger people and service staff in tourist areas often speak basic English. However, don't rely on it - download translation apps like Google Translate, Pleco, or Baidu Translate. Learning basic Chinese phrases will be greatly appreciated!

Don't stick chopsticks upright in rice (resembles incense at funerals), don't point with one finger (use open hand), remove shoes when entering homes, don't touch someone's head, and avoid discussing sensitive political topics. However, Chinese people are generally very forgiving of foreigners' cultural mistakes - showing effort to understand is more important than perfection.

Join language exchange events, use apps like HelloTalk or Tandem, visit local cafes and bars, participate in group activities like hiking or sports clubs. Many Chinese people are curious about foreigners and happy to practice English. Be genuinely interested in Chinese culture, ask questions, and be patient with language barriers.

This is a misconception! While people in big cities can seem rushed (like in any major city worldwide), Chinese people are generally warm and hospitable once you break the ice. They might seem reserved initially due to language barriers or cultural differences, but showing genuine interest and respect usually leads to very positive interactions.

Police: 110, Medical: 120, Fire: 119. Most operators speak Chinese only, so have translation apps ready or ask a local to help translate. Keep these numbers saved in your phone along with your hotel's contact information in Chinese. Your embassy contact information is also crucial.

International hospitals in major cities have English-speaking staff: Beijing United Family Hospital, Shanghai Parkway Health, Guangzhou Clifford Hospital. These are expensive but offer Western-standard care. For minor issues, international pharmacies in expat areas often have English-speaking staff. Always keep your travel insurance information accessible.

Yes, China is generally very safe, even for solo female travelers. Violent crime against foreigners is rare. The main concerns are petty theft in crowded areas, traffic safety (look both ways - electric scooters are silent!), and food safety for sensitive stomachs. Trust your instincts, avoid excessive drinking alone, and stay in well-reviewed accommodations.

Immediately contact your embassy or consulate - they have emergency services for lost passports. File a police report (needed for passport replacement). Keep digital and physical copies of your passport stored separately. The process can take several days, so factor this into travel plans. Some hotels can help facilitate the process.