First China Trip Kit

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Practical China travel guides

Clear English answers to the questions that foreign visitors usually ask before their first China trip.

Featured guide

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Payment

How to Pay in China as a Foreigner

A practical introduction to mobile payments, cash, cards, and what to set up before your first meal in China.

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Start with the setup that unlocks your first day

Payments are the foundation for taxis, meals, metro rides and bookings. This guide gives first-time visitors a tested setup order and practical backups.

  • Mobile wallet setup
  • Cash and card backups
  • Failure troubleshooting

Visa & Entry

Visa & Entry guides

International traveler pulling luggage through an airport terminal

Visa & Entry

Can Americans Travel to China in 2026?

A practical planning guide for U.S. passport holders considering China travel in 2026, including visa planning, passport checks, flights, hotels, and official verification.

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Boarding pass held against an airport apron and onward aircraft

Visa & Entry

China 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Guide

A cautious planning guide to China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy, including eligibility checks, onward tickets, permitted areas, ports, and common mistakes.

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Traveler holding a smartphone and boarding pass beside an airport window

Visa & Entry

What Counts as a Third Country for China 240-Hour Transit?

A practical route check for the 240-hour transit policy: confirm that your onward itinerary goes to a third country or region and has a confirmed date.

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Traveler holding a smartphone and boarding pass beside an airport window

Visa & Entry

When Does China's 240-Hour Transit Period Start?

China's official notice says the 240-hour stay is calculated from 00:00 on the day after entry; verify your exact entry record and route before travel.

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International passengers with luggage inside an airport terminal

Visa & Entry

Which Ports and Areas Work for China 240-Hour Transit?

The eligible port is only one part of a 240-hour transit plan: verify the current NIA port list and that every stop stays inside the permitted area.

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