10 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting China 🇨🇳✈️ [UPDATED 2025]
China is a fascinating country, full of history and tradition that spans thousands of years. However, if it is your First visit, it can be a little overwhelming. It is one of those destinations that is full of mysteries and wonders. If you are about to embark on an adventure through this incredible country, there are some things you need to know before you leave. Today I am going to tell you Those 10 things you need to know before visiting China and that nobody tells you, but they will help you have the best possible experience. If you go with the open minded and well prepared, you will be able to enjoy an incredible and stress-free trip. Let's go! ✈️
Visas and visa waivers: What you need to know 🛂
One of the first things you need to know before visiting China is that traveling to China requires planning regarding visas, as the rules may be different depending on your nationality and purpose of travel.
From the November 30, 2024 to December 31, 2025, holders of ordinary Spanish passports are exempt from visas for stays in China of up to 30 days for tourism, business, visiting relatives, cultural or academic exchanges, or transit. Please consult the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Spain or your country's for more info.
Important Considerations:
Passport Validity: Although there is no minimum passport validity requirement for entry into mainland China, it is recommended that you have at least six months' validity to avoid any inconvenience.
Extended Stays: If you plan to stay for more than 30 days or your purpose of travel is not covered by the exemption, you must apply for the appropriate visa before your trip.
Special Regions: For Hong Kong and Macau, Spanish citizens can stay up to 90 days without a visa.
Recommendations:
Documentation: Make sure you bring a copy of your passport and any documents that support the reason for your trip.
Local Regulations: Please comply with local laws and regulations during your stay in China.
When is the best time to visit China?
Another thing you need to know before visiting China is knowing when to go, China's climate varies significantly from region to region, so the time of your visit may affect your experience. If you want to avoid temperature extremes, the best time to visit is Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)During these months, temperatures are pleasant and there is less rain. This is key if you plan to go on long hikes or explore nature.
If you plan to visit northern China, for example Beijing, Winter can be extremely cold, with temperatures below freezing. If you go south (such as Hong Kong or Guangzhou), The weather will be much warmer and more humid, especially in summer.
Taking temperatures into account when traveling to China is very good, but now I'm going to give you the DREAMER ADVICE most important avoid traveling during CHINA HOLIDAYS, How can it be? Chinese New Year or your Summer vacation. As my Chinese friends have explained to me, the government imposes most of the holiday dates on all workers, so they have their days off at the same time. So as you can understand, it is the time of greatest internal tourism and it's crazy! Attractions can be crowded, and accommodation prices rise considerably. In the official government website You can view the calendar with all the holidays to confirm any changes and updated dates.
Here is a table with the official holidays in China for 2025
| Name of the holiday | Dates | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| New Year | January 1st | 1 day |
| Spring Festival | January 28 – February 4 | 8 days |
| Qingming Festival | April 4 – 6 | 3 days |
| Labor Day | May 1 – 5 | 5 days |
| Dragon Boat Festival | May 31 – June 2 | 3 days |
| National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival | 1 – 8 October | 8 days |
The language barrier and how to overcome it
The language barrier is one of the biggest challenges for travelers visiting China for the first time.z. Although English is gaining ground, especially in big cities, most Chinese people do not speak it, which can make communication difficult in certain situations.
Main Languages
- Mandarin: The official language of China, spoken throughout most of the country.
- Cantonese: Most common in Hong Kong, Macau and some areas of southern China.
Tips to Overcome the Language Barrier
- Learn basic phrases: Phrases like “hello” (你好, Nǐ hǎo), “thank you” (谢谢, Xièxiè) and “how much is it?” (多少钱?, Duōshǎo qián?) can be very helpful.
- Use translation apps: Tools like Google Translate (using VPN) or Pleco will help you translate text and even communicate verbally.
- Bring a card from your hotel: This way you can show it to taxi drivers or local people if you get lost.
- Seek help from international hotels: In larger hotels, reception staff usually speak some English and will be able to help you if you have any questions.
Censorship: How to Browse the Internet in China 🚫
One of the Things you need to know before visiting China and that One of the biggest surprises when traveling to China is discovering that much of the internet content is censored by the government. Sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, WhatsApp, and even Google are blocked. This can be frustrating, especially if you need to access your social networks, email, or work tools. But don't worry, there is a solution!
How to Stay Connected
Before you travel, be sure to install a VPN (Virtual Private Network) on your phone and computer. A VPN will allow you to access the internet as if you were in another country, avoiding censorship restrictions.
NORD VPN: Our recommendation
We use NordVPN, one of the best services available (and they are our affiliate too). It works reliably in China and is easy to set up before your trip. We had no problem using WhatsApp or Google Maps, so believe me, it is a must for traveling to China.
Important Tips for Using a VPN
- Download the VPN before you arrive in China: Once there, many VPN websites are also blocked.
- Choose a reliable service: Make sure it's fast and secure.
Culture Shock: What You Should Know Before Your Trip
Traveling to China can be a significant culture shock, especially if you're coming from a Western country. Customs, daily habits, and even the pace of life can seem very different. Here are some key points to be prepared for and make the most of the experience:
Customs and Traditions
Get informed before you go: Take time to read up on the traditions and etiquette of the regions you will be visiting. Understanding things like how to say thank you, greet, or behave in a temple will make your experience more enriching. Some culture shocks that left me a bit disoriented (even living in Melbourne where there is a large percentage of population Asian) were:
- Hot water, In restaurants, finding cold water is almost an impossible mission. When you come back from walking around in the heat, the last thing you want is a glass of hot water, but hey, sometimes we were lucky and managed to get glasses of ice! It is a Chinese tradition that is centuries old and serves to keep you balanced and in harmony, although I prefer a glass of cold water…
Queuing: A Story of Chaos and Adaptation, If you are one of those people who is used to waiting in line in an orderly and patient manner, prepare yourself for a major cultural change. In China, especially in tourist spots or at train and subway stations, queuing is not always so easy, certainly not in Japan. Lines tend to become a lot more chaotic, with everyone jumping in at the same time. At first you're like, what's going on here? But you have to adapt and learn not to take it too seriously because they're not going to take notice, it's their habit, and there are just too many of them...
Practical Tips for Everyday Life
- Masks and pollution: In cities with high levels of pollution, you will see many people wearing surgical masks. It is a common occurrence and you may want to consider wearing one if you are sensitive to polluted air.
- Public toilets: Most toilets in China are squat toilets, and many do not have toilet paper or soap. Always carry disposable tissues and a small amount of hand sanitizer with you.
- Bargaining with vendors:
- In markets and with street vendors, haggling is a common practice. Don't hesitate to negotiate prices.
- But be careful: if you don't intend to buy something, avoid asking for the price, as some sellers may insist or follow you for a while.
Your Mindset is Key
Traveling to China may be different from what you're used to, but the key is to adapt, be curious, and be open to new experiences. With an open mind and these tips, you'll turn any culture shock into memorable stories to tell. ✨
How to Book Your Accommodation in China: Everything You Need to Know to Make Sure You Don't Get Lost
One of the first important steps in your trip to China is deciding where you are going to stay. Although it may seem simple, there are some things you should keep in mind to avoid surprises. Don't worry, I'll tell you everything you need to know to book your hotel and enjoy a stress-free stay.
The best options for booking your accommodation are the same websites you would use anywhere else in the world, such as Booking.com. In addition, through Booking You can find options for major cities in China. If you are looking for something practical and comfortable, you can check out our recommended hotel on [Booking](affiliate link). Check out the reviews: Reviews in China are super important, and locals are very detailed in their comments.
What to Consider When Booking 🧐
- Check out the reviews: Reviews in China are super important, and locals are very detailed in their comments. Always read reviews before making your decision to avoid surprises.
- Please note that not all hotels accept foreigners.. Some hotels that look cheap may be geared only to local tourists. If you arrive and are told you can't stay, you'll be asked to find another accommodation! So Make sure the hotel accepts foreigners before making the reservation, don't worry as it is indicated in the hotel specifications on Booking.
- Don't Forget Your Passport You will always be asked for your passport details to complete your booking. Be prepared to give it out over and over again during your stay!
DREAMER ADVICE
One of the things you should know before visiting China is that In China you must always carry your passport with you.And, they ask for it often, when you go to a museum, monument etc… they scan it to get through, so if you don't have it they won't let you through. They even ask for it in theme parks like Universal Studios Beijing! So NO PASSPORT – NO PARTY
How to pay in China 💳
I'll just give you one DREAMER ADVICE prepare in advance the AliPay app as it will be your ally. One of the main things you need to know before visiting China is that in China Cash is hardly used, everyone pays via mobile. From a sandwich on the street to paying the rent, digital payment apps are the way to pay for almost anything. and ALIPAY is the queen!
📲 Alipay – The All-in-One
If you don't know AliPay, get ready because it's going to become Your best friend in China. Created by Alibaba, this app allows you load money, pay in stores by scanning a simple QR code, cash and even buy online. Super practical, right?
But, be careful, if you are a foreigner, You will not be able to use your international card to make transfers, receive red envelopes (hong bao) or use other financial services. But the good thing is that when it comes to paying for purchases, you'll be covered!
Transportation in China
Transportation is super important when you travel, and China is no exception. Since I started my adventure through this large and diverse country, I realized how well organized and practical everything is. The transportation system is not only efficient and comfortable, but also gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture.
High-speed trains in China are really cool. It connects a lot of cities, and allows you to move quickly and cheaply throughout the country. The best thing of all is that, while travelling, you can see the typical Chinese landscape at full speed, which makes the journey a unique experience. Ticket prices are not extremely expensive, and if you are a foreigner, you can buy them directly at the station by showing your passport.
In big cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Guangzhou and Chengdu, The subway is your best ally to move quickly and economically. The networks are huge and the ticket prices are super affordable.
Uber does not exist in China but DiDi does, one of the most popular transportation platforms. What What surprised me the most about DiDi is how well it integrates with AliPayUnlike other ride-hailing apps, you don't need to download DiDi separately, as you can access it directly through a mini-app within AliPay. This makes everything much easier and faster.
Get ready to be a tourist attraction 📸
Outside of Beijing and Shanghai, locals might look at you curiously or even ask for photos with you. In some areas foreigners are still a rarity. Believe me, it happens, there must be a lot of photos of us in China!
Why it happens
- Genuine curiosity: For many, it is their first interaction with someone from another culture.
- No bad intention: They just want to immortalize the moment.
How to Handle It
- Smile and relax: It's a nice cultural exchange.
- Say “no” if you don’t want to: A kind gesture is enough.
The Best Places to Visit on Your First Trip to China
Finally, one of the things you need to know before visiting China is that it is a huge country full of contrasts and fascinating places. If it is your first trip, here is a list of the most recommended destinations and the destinations we visited on our first trip.
Classic Destinations: Perfect for a first visit
- Beijing: A must-see for learning about Chinese history and culture. Don't miss the Forbidden City, the Great Wall and the Temple of Heaven.
- Shanghai: A modern metropolis with a cosmopolitan feel. Stroll along the Bund, explore the Yuyuan Gardens and discover the nightlife of this vibrant city.
- Xi'an: Home of the iconic Terracotta Army, the city wall and Muslim quarter will also surprise you with their historical and culinary charm.
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