CHINA | When to Go, Where to Go, and What to Bring? Practical Information
- World Mappers
- Sep 12
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 17
USEFUL INFORMATION ABOUT CHINA
Practical information to help you plan your trip to this destination, with details on when to go, required documents, getting around, and much more.
WHEN TO GO in CHINA
China is vast, and the climate varies greatly from region to region. In general, the best periods to visit are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October), when temperatures are mild, and the skies clearer. Summer (June–August) can be very hot and humid in big cities like Beijing and Shanghai, while in the south there are heavy rains. Winter (November–February) is harsh in the north (Beijing, Xi’an), but offers unique landscapes and fewer tourists. Periods to avoid are major Chinese holidays, such as Lunar New Year, when transport is overcrowded, and prices higher.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS for CHINA
To enter China, you need a passport valid for at least 6 months and a tourist visa (L), available from the Embassy or authorized visa centers. In some areas (such as Shanghai and Beijing), there are visa exemption policies up to 72 or 144 hours for short transits, but specific conditions apply. Health insurance is not mandatory but strongly recommended, as medical care for foreigners can be expensive.
WHAT TO BRING in CHINA
Comfortable shoes for walking in historic sites and cities
Layered clothing to adapt to changing weather
Warm jacket if traveling in winter
Universal adapter for type A, C, and I sockets
International credit card and yuan in cash
VPN to access Western sites and apps (many services like Google, WhatsApp, and Facebook are blocked)
Dust mask for days of heavy pollution in major cities
Basic medical kit with personal medicines
Phrasebook or offline translator app, useful outside major cities
CULTURE in CHINA
China has a millennia-old civilization, rich in traditions, philosophy, and spirituality. Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism have shaped thought and society. Family is at the core of social life, and respect for elders is essential. Modernization has turned cities like Shanghai and Shenzhen into futuristic metropolises, while villages and temples preserve an ancient soul. Cuisine varies greatly by region: from spicy Sichuan to Cantonese dim sum, up to Peking duck. China is a country of contrasts, between modernity, tradition, and a strong sense of national identity.
GAY FRIENDLY CHINA
China does not legally recognize same-sex unions, and LGBTQ+ visibility is more limited compared to Western countries. However, in large cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou, there are queer communities with clubs, bars, and associations. Events such as Shanghai Pride have taken place, though with restrictions. For LGBTQ+ travelers, China is generally safe, but discretion with public displays of affection is advisable, especially in rural areas.
LOCAL CURRENCY in CHINA
The official currency is the Yuan Renminbi (CNY). Banknotes range from 1 to 100 yuan. ATMs are widespread in cities, and international cards work with major networks, but it’s important to always have cash, especially in rural areas. Many Chinese use digital payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay), often not accessible to foreigners without a local account.
CREDIT CARDS in CHINA
Visa and MasterCard are accepted in large hotels, restaurants, and international shops, but less common in local businesses. It is always advisable to carry cash in yuan. American Express is rarely accepted.
TIPPING in CHINA
Traditionally, tipping is not part of Chinese culture. However, in tourist areas and international hotels, it is increasingly common to leave a small tip to guides, drivers, and waiters (5–10%). In local restaurants, it is not customary.
BARGAINING in CHINA
Bargaining is normal in markets, souvenir shops, and with street vendors. It is part of the culture and almost a social “game”, so don’t be afraid to propose a lower price. In shopping malls and official stores, prices are fixed.
ELECTRICITY AND TIME ZONE in CHINA
Electricity is 220V with type A, C, and I sockets. A universal adapter is useful. Despite its geographic size, China uses a single national time zone (UTC+8).
HOW TO GET AROUND in CHINA
China has a modern and efficient transport system. The main cities are connected by high-speed trains, fast and punctual. For long distances, there are domestic flights at affordable prices. In big cities, subways and metered taxis work well. Apps such as Didi (similar to Uber) are widely used. For tourists, it is helpful to have the names of destinations written in Chinese, since many taxi drivers do not speak English.
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