Travel to China: payments, apps, VPNs and routes

In mainland China, mobile payments, local apps and internet restrictions shape the trip from the first day. Sorting out these three areas before flying avoids difficult setup once you are already on the road.

The important decisions

• Payments: Alipay and WeChat Pay support some international cards, but it is sensible to carry an alternative and some cash for problems.
• Maps and transport: several Western apps provide limited information. Install and test the alternatives you need before leaving.
• Internet: some familiar services are unavailable in mainland China. Review the rules and configure any permitted solution before the trip.
• Bookings: keep your accommodation address written in Chinese on both your phone and paper.

Choose a manageable route

Distances are substantial. Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu do not make a short break, even with an extensive high-speed rail network. For a first trip, two or three bases provide more time in each place and fewer days in airports and stations.

Beijing centres on imperial heritage; Shanghai presents a contemporary port city; Xi'an, Chengdu, Yunnan and Guilin lead to very different journeys. The route should follow your main interest rather than accumulate famous places.

Before booking

Check current visa rules or exemptions for your nationality, accommodation registration, national holidays and ticket availability. Major holiday periods can transform both prices and availability.

The guides in this section cover payments, apps, connectivity and city routes. Start with money and internet, as these affect most of the remaining planning.