First trip to China: frequently asked questions
The questions first-time visitors ask most, answered from the guides with links to each source. Checked 23 October 2026.
Entry and visas
How does 240-hour visa-free transit work?
Citizens of the eligible countries can spend up to 10 days in mainland China without a visa when China is a stop between two other countries or regions: you need a confirmed onward ticket, must enter and leave through designated ports and stay within the permitted areas [1]. Check your passport on the visa pages [2].
Sources: [1] Visas and Entry: 240-hour visa-free transit in China: rules and how to use it · [2] Visa rules by nationality
Is the China arrival card free?
Yes. Fill it in online before you travel through the official channels, such as the NIA website or the "NIA 12367" app; look-alike websites that charge a fee are not official. You can also complete it on arrival [1].
Sources: [1] Visas and Entry: The online arrival card for China
Money and payments
Can I use my Visa or Mastercard in China?
Yes, but mostly through your phone. Link the card to Alipay and WeChat Pay before you fly: both accept Visa and Mastercard from abroad [1]. The card itself works at large hotels, big malls and some international chains, but small restaurants, shops and taxis usually have no terminal for foreign cards [2].
Sources: [1] Paying in China: Setting up Alipay and WeChat Pay as a foreigner · [2] Paying in China: Using international bank cards in China
Do I need cash in China?
Carry a modest amount in small notes as a backup. Cash is legal tender and businesses must accept it, but small stalls may not have change and shared bikes and many kiosks take phone payments only [1]. ATMs of major banks at airports, big stations and city centers accept many foreign cards [2].
Sources: [1] Paying in China: Paying with cash in China · [2] Paying in China: Withdrawing cash from ATMs in China
Phones, internet and apps
Which apps should I install before going to China?
Alipay and WeChat for payments and mini programs, Amap or Apple Maps for maps, Didi for ride-hailing, Trip.com for hotels and trains in English, Railway 12306 for train tickets, and a translation app with offline Chinese [1]. Install and test them at home, where app stores and verification texts work smoothly [2].
Sources: [1] Internet and Apps for China: The essential app kit for China · [2] Internet and Apps for China: Set up and test your apps before boarding
Sights and bookings
Do I need to book the Forbidden City in advance?
Yes. The Palace Museum sells no tickets at the gate: book on the official website or its WeChat mini program, up to 7 days ahead, with each visitor's passport. Popular days sell out within hours of release, and it is closed on Mondays except public holidays [1].
Sources: [1] Sight bookings: Palace Museum (Forbidden City) (故宫博物院), Beijing
Hotels and registration
Do I have to register with the police in China?
In a hotel, no: the hotel registers you when it scans your passport at check-in [1]. If you stay with friends or in a private rental, you must register within 24 hours of arrival, at the local police station or, since 21 September 2026, online through the NIA website, the "NIA 12367" app or its WeChat and Alipay mini programs [2].
Sources: [1] Hotels and Registration in China: Police registration: what the hotel does for you · [2] Hotels and Registration in China: Staying with friends or in a private rental in China
Customs and etiquette
Is tipping expected in China?
No. You don't need to tip in restaurants, taxis, hotels or salons, and staff may try to return the money. Some upscale hotels and restaurants add a service charge to the bill instead [1].
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