Your 4-Step Guide to Visiting China in 2025: 5-Minute Read

Planning a trip to China might seem complex, but the process has become far simpler for international travelers. Here is your quick, four-step checklist to ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey, with each section serving as a key gateway to detailed planning.

1. 🛂 Visa and Documentation

The Requirement: A valid visa is generally mandatory for entry to China (L-tourist visa is standard).

Simplified Entry: Check your eligibility for the 72/144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy if you are merely stopping over between two international destinations. China is also expanding its visa-free list (e.g., for certain European countries).

Next Step: For detailed visa application guides, required documentation, and the latest policy updates, refer to our comprehensive Visa Planning article.

2. 📱 Seamless Digital Payments (AliPay & WeChat Pay)

The Challenge: China is a largely cashless society. Foreign credit cards are rarely accepted directly in daily transactions.

The Solution: You must set up an international account on either AliPay  or WeChat Pay (微信支付). Both apps now allow you to link most foreign VISA, Mastercard, or American Express cards directly for use almost anywhere.

Next Step: For a step-by-step tutorial on linking your foreign card to AliPay and WeChat Pay and troubleshooting common payment issues, check out our Digital Payment Setup guide.

3. 🌐 Staying Connected (VPN & SIM Card)

The Need: Reliable mobile data and access to global internet sites (Google, Facebook, Instagram) are essential.

The Strategy:

• VPN: Install and activate a reliable Virtual Private Network (VPN) before arriving in China to access blocked international services.

• SIM/eSIM: Purchase a local SIM card or an international roaming eSIM package upon arrival for local data and connectivity.

Next Step: For reviews of the best working VPNs in China and the most cost-effective local SIM card options, read our Internet & VPN Connection deep dive.

4. 🚇 Mastering Local Transit

The System: China’s urban transportation is vast, efficient, and affordable, encompassing the Metro, Bus, and Taxi/Ride-hailing services.

The Method:

• Metro: Fast and widespread, covering almost all major cities.

• Bus: Highly economical, but requires basic destination recognition.

• Taxi/Didi: Didi (China’s equivalent of Uber) is the most efficient and reliable way to get door-to-door, easily booked through your mobile app.

Next Step: To learn how to use the Metro ticket machines, install the Didi app correctly, and translate bus routes, see our detailed City Transportation Guide.