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 . 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.