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China Survival Guide

China Survival Guide — Essential travel tips for first-time travelers

If this is your first time visiting China, this is a good place to begin.

Travel here is not difficult. But it does work differently.

Mobile payment is used almost everywhere. Train stations are large and highly organized. Many daily services depend on apps. When you understand these systems, everything feels smooth. When you don’t, small details can become stressful.

I created this China Survival Guides to help you feel prepared before you arrive.

These notes focus on the practical foundations of independent travel — how to handle payment, how high-speed trains really work, how to stay connected with a SIM card or Wi-Fi, and how to move around major cities with confidence.

All of this is based on years of working here in Beijing and supporting international visitors across China — answering the same practical questions again and again, and helping solve the small issues that often surprise first-time travelers.

Once these basics are clear, the rest of your trip becomes much easier to shape and enjoy.

You can begin with the essentials below.

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Temporary Driving Permit at China Airports Guide
Posted inChina Road Trip China Survival Guide Driving in China

Temporary Driving Permit at China Airports Guide

Landing in China and planning to drive? Several major airports now issue temporary driving permits on arrival. Here’s how it works, where to apply, and what to prepare before you fly.
Posted by Ruqin China Travel May 23, 2026
China Visa-Free Travel Policies
Posted inChina Survival Guide China Visa

China Visa-Free Travel Policies: Your Guide to Visiting China

The good news is that China visa-free travel policies allows citizens from certain countries to visit without the need for a visa. This comprehensive guide will take you through all the current visa-free policies, eligibility requirements, and what you need to know to plan your visa-free trip to China.
Posted by Ruqin China Travel May 23, 2026
Beijing Xi'an high speed train
Posted inChina Survival Guide China Train Travel

How to Buy Train Tickets in China Online as a Foreigner

This step-by-step guide explains how to buy train tickets in China online as a foreigner, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Posted by Ruqin China Travel May 23, 2026
Essential Mandarin Phrases for Travelers in China
Posted inChina Survival Guide Chinese Language Guide

Essential Mandarin Phrases for Travelers in China

Mandarin is the official language in China, and while you may find English speakers in major cities, having a few essential Mandarin phrases can greatly enhance your travel experience. In this article, we’ll introduce Essential Mandarin Phrases for Travelers in China that will help you navigate the country with confidence.
Posted by Ruqin China Travel May 23, 2026
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Posted inChina Survival Guide China Travel Tips for U.S. and Canadian Travelers Tipping in China

Tipping in China: What First-Time Tourists Really Need to Know

This guide will walk you through the essential tipping practices in China, answering common questions like "Is tipping expected in China?" and providing advice for various services.
Posted by Ruqin China Travel May 23, 2026
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Posted inChina Survival Guide Electricity and Plugs in China

China Power Guide: Plugs, Sockets, Adapters & Voltage Basics!

Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, being prepared will help you enjoy a seamless experience when charging your devices or using electrical appliances. This guide will provide all the essential information you need about plugs, sockets, adapters & voltage in China.
Posted by Ruqin China Travel May 23, 2026
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Posted inChina Survival Guide Packing Essentials in China

What to Pack for China – A Foreigner’s Guide

Traveling to China is an exciting adventure filled with cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. However, packing for such a diverse country can be challenging. With its varied climates and unique cultural norms, it's essential to pack thoughtfully.
Posted by Ruqin China Travel May 23, 2026
How to Visit a Chinese Bathhouse
Posted inChina Survival Guide Wellness and Travel

How to Visit a Chinese Bathhouse: Etiquette, What to Expect & First-Time Tips

For many international travelers, visiting a Chinese bathhouse is one of the most unexpected cultural experiences in China. It’s relaxing, affordable, deeply local—and sometimes a little intimidating if you’ve never been before.
Posted by Ruqin China Travel May 22, 2026
How to Order Food with QR Code Menus in China
Posted inChina Survival Guide Mobile Apps for Travelers in China

How to Order Food with QR Code Menus in China: A First-Time Visitor’s Guide

This guide walks you through how QR code ordering works in China, what to do if the menu is only in Chinese, and what to do if nothing works.
Posted by Ruqin China Travel May 22, 2026
Family tour with kid at mutianyu Great Wall
Posted inChina Survival Guide Wellness and Travel

Health and Safety Tips for Beijing Visitors

Whether you're concerned about air quality, local food, or navigating the city, this guide will provide you with essential information to ensure a safe and healthy visit. In this article, we will cover Health and Safety Tips for Beijing Visitors to help you make the most of your trip.
Posted by Ruqin China Travel May 4, 2026

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