China

The Land of Dragons
and Dynasties

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China, one of the world's oldest civilizations, is known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and dynamic culture. From the ancient Great Wall and the Terracotta Army to modern cities like Beijing and Shanghai, China seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. Its landscapes range from the Himalayas and vast deserts to lush river valleys and coastal cities.

Chinese culture, deeply influenced by Confucian, Taoist, and Buddhist philosophies, is celebrated through festivals, art, and cuisine. Chinese food is famous worldwide, with regional specialties like dim sum, Peking duck, and hot pot. With its vast heritage and global influence, China offers a unique journey through ancient wonders and modern marvels.

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Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into China.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in China.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from a few nations (e.g., Singapore, Japan, Brunei) can enter China with a valid passport and stay for up to 15-30 days (depending on nationality) within a 180-day period without a visa for tourism or business. Additionally, some nationalities are eligible for visa-free transit (e.g., 144-hour transit in certain cities like Shanghai).
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from most nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering China, typically through a Chinese embassy or consulate.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; a Chinese visa is required unless the traveler’s nationality is visa-exempt or eligible for visa-free transit.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; a Chinese visa is required unless visa-exempt or eligible for transit.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK do not qualify for visa-free entry; a Chinese visa is required unless visa-exempt.
  • ID Card Entry: No countries are permitted to enter China using only a national ID card; a passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for up to 30-60 days (tourist visa, "L" visa). Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 10 years for some nationalities (e.g., US citizens).
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days. Valid for one year or more, allowing application for a residence permit (e.g., for work, study, or family reunion).

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are limited to 15-30 days for eligible nationalities, or 72-144 hours for transit in designated cities. Tourist visas typically allow a 30-day stay, extendable once.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; work visas ("Z" visa) require sponsorship and additional documentation. Travel to Tibet requires a special Tibet Travel Permit in addition to a Chinese visa.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions, as China may reintroduce measures like mandatory testing, health codes, or quarantine.
Driving Menu

Driving in China

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, China has an extensive network of toll roads, including:
    • G4 Beijing-Hong Kong-Macau Expressway: A major toll road connecting Beijing to southern China.
    • G2 Beijing-Shanghai Expressway: Linking Beijing to Shanghai with multiple toll plazas.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For example, a standard car may pay approximately CNY 0.5-1 per kilometer on major expressways (e.g., CNY 400-500 for Beijing to Shanghai). For the most current rates, visit the Ministry of Transport website: https://www.mot.gov.cn/
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Chinese Yuan (CNY) is accepted at most toll booths.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Major cards are increasingly accepted at toll booths, especially on major routes.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) is widely implemented; vehicles with an ETC card can pass through dedicated lanes. Register via https://www.mot.gov.cn/ or mobile apps like WeChat/Alipay.

Driving in China

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 30-60 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60-80 km/h
    • Highways: 100-120 km/h
  • Road conditions are generally good on major highways, but rural roads can be narrow, congested, or poorly maintained, especially in remote provinces like Yunnan or Gansu.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is not recognized in mainland China. Foreigners must obtain a temporary Chinese driving permit (valid for 3 months) or a full Chinese license, requiring a notarized translation of your home country’s license and a medical check.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: China does not use a vignette system; tolls are collected at specific points on expressways.
  • Road Safety: Driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers, heavy traffic, and varying road rules. Night driving in rural areas is risky due to poor lighting and pedestrians.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is reliable in urban areas (e.g., Beijing, Shanghai), but foreign apps like Google Maps may be blocked; use local apps like Baidu Maps or Amap. Keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 122 for traffic emergencies, 110 for police, or 120 for medical emergencies.

Useful Links

Currency Menu

China Currency

The official currency of China is the Chinese Yuan (CNY), also known as Renminbi (RMB).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 CNY
  • Coins: 1, 5 jiao; 1 CNY
  • Symbol: ¥ (often written as CNY)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services are available at banks, airports, and major hotels.
  • ATMs are widely available in urban areas (e.g., Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou) for direct CNY withdrawals, but may be scarce in rural regions.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is still used, especially in rural areas and small establishments, but digital payments dominate in cities.
  • Credit/debit cards are accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments, but foreign cards (e.g., Visa, Mastercard) may not work everywhere. Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are preferred, though they often require a Chinese bank account.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas, as digital payments may not always accept foreign cards.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards; the CNY fluctuates against major currencies. Set up WeChat Pay or Alipay with a foreign card if possible.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the People’s Bank of China website: https://www.pbc.gov.cn/
Laws Menu

Legal Essentials for Traveling in China

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in China, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including the death penalty for trafficking. Even small quantities can lead to long prison sentences.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Alcohol consumption is permitted, but public intoxication can lead to fines or detention.
    • Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces, on public transport, and in many cities (e.g., Beijing, Shanghai) in outdoor public areas.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing sensitive political topics (e.g., Tibet, Taiwan, Xinjiang, or the Chinese Communist Party). Respect local customs, especially at religious sites like Buddhist temples.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, but same-sex marriage is not recognized. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention, especially in rural areas.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites, government buildings, and some cultural sites (e.g., inside the Forbidden City). Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1.5L spirits.
  • Tobacco: 400 cigarettes or 100 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over CNY 20,000 or USD 5,000 (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, pornography, and politically sensitive materials (e.g., books critical of the government).
  • Counterfeit goods may face fines or confiscation.

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport (e.g., Beijing Capital International Airport).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the China National Tourism Administration or local tourism offices.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches (e.g., in Hainan province like Sanya) must allow free access within 5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is mandated but not always implemented.

Key Resources

Safety Menu

China Travel Safety

China is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates and a reputation for order. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in China.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is possible in crowded areas like markets (e.g., Shanghai’s Yuyuan Bazaar) or public transport (e.g., Beijing subway). Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: China is considered safe, with a strong police presence. Female travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be cautious of scams targeting tourists.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to heavy traffic, aggressive drivers, and pedestrians ignoring signals.
    • Avoid night driving in rural areas due to poor lighting and road hazards.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water; drink bottled or boiled water only.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea; street food can be risky if not freshly prepared.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for rural travel).
    • Yellow Fever: Required if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against dengue and Japanese encephalitis, especially in southern regions (e.g., Guangdong) during summer.
  • Altitude Sickness: Risk exists in areas above 2,500 meters (e.g., Tibet, parts of Yunnan like Shangri-La). Ascend gradually and stay hydrated.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: High-quality facilities like Peking Union Medical College Hospital in Beijing offer excellent care. Rural areas often lack advanced medical services.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities; carry essential medications for rural travel, as English may not be widely spoken.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, as rural care is limited.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 110 (police), 120 (ambulance), 119 (fire).
  • Ambulance: 120 | Fire: 119 | Police: 110.
  • Tourist Police (Beijing): +86 10 6235 5100.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Avoid self-driving; use public transport (e.g., high-speed trains, metro) or hire a local driver. Check insurance coverage if renting.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for treks in areas like Tiger Leaping Gorge or Mount Tai; weather can change rapidly.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid political discussions; respect local customs (e.g., don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice, as it resembles a funeral ritual).
  • Air Quality: Pollution can be high in cities like Beijing; monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

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Flying to China