China Essentials

Everything you need to prepare for your China trip — no fluff, just what works. From visa to VPN, from your first 48 hours to getting around. Practical, step‑by‑step guidance for before you go and when you land.

📋 Before You Go

Visa, flights, packing, VPN — get ready before you leave home.

  • Visa application guide (2026)
  • Flights & arrival: best airports
  • What to pack (and what NOT to pack)
  • VPN setup before you leave
  • Travel insurance for China
  • Budget planning: 1 week / 1 month / 3 months

【 View all 6 】

🚀 First Week

SIM card, payment setup, transport, settling in — your first 48 hours made simple.

  • Getting a local SIM card (China Mobile/Unicom/Telecom)
  • Alipay vs WeChat Pay: which one first?
  • Metro & Didi: how to get around
  • Finding an apartment (short-term & long-term)

【 View all 4 】

📱 Money & Tech

Alipay, WeChat Pay, essential apps, and staying connected without stress.

  • Food delivery: Meituan vs Ele.me
  • Online shopping (Taobao, JD, Pinduoduo)
  • Hospitals & clinics: how to see a doctor
  • Opening a bank account
  • Language apps & survival phrases
  • How to book train tickets (12306 guide)
  • Domestic flights: best airlines & apps
  • Hotel booking in China: what works
  • Safety tips for solo travelers

【 View all 9 】

🚇 Getting Around

Metro, Didi, trains, bikes — how to buy tickets and navigate like a local.

  • Work visa (Z visa) step by step
  • Chinese workplace culture: do’s and don’ts
  • WeChat Work & business etiquette
  • The concept of “face” (mianzi) explained
  • Gift-giving & receiving etiquette
  • Taboos & sensitive topics to avoid

【View all 6】

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