Most frustrations on a China trip come from small practical details rather than big itinerary mistakes. This guide covers the things our guests ask about most: visas, mobile payment, connectivity, tipping culture and daily etiquette.
Highlights
- Visa categories and what an invitation letter needs to contain
- Mobile payment setup for foreign cards, and cash as a backup
- eSIM, VPN and hotel Wi-Fi realities
- Tipping, bargaining and restaurant etiquette
At a glance
| Topic | Programme |
|---|---|
| Visas | Most visitors need a tourist visa (L) arranged before departure. We issue a confirmed itinerary and hotel list that you submit with the application. Citizens of some countries can use 144-hour visa-free transit through Guangdong; ask us to check your specific case. |
| Payments | Alipay and WeChat Pay both accept international cards once linked. We recommend setting this up before you fly, and carrying a small amount of cash for smaller shops. |
| Connectivity | Airport eSIMs work well. Hotel Wi-Fi is common but many international services are restricted; plan your workarounds before arrival. |
| Etiquette | Tipping is not customary in mainland China, though it is appreciated by guides and drivers on private tours. At markets, light bargaining is normal; in malls and restaurants, prices are fixed. |
What is included
- Pre-departure briefing document
- Visa invitation letter
- On-trip WhatsApp support
Good to know
- Visa rules change; always confirm with the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate before booking flights.
Enquire about this journey
Tell us your dates, group size and hotel preference and we will send a detailed quotation, usually within one business day. Written in English, priced in CNY or USD.
Email · Phone / WhatsApp +86 189 9880 5705 · We reply 09:00–21:00 China time (GMT+8).