Check your entry documents
Start with your passport nationality, travel dates and complete route. Visa and transit arrangements have different conditions, so check the current guidance from China's National Immigration Administration and the relevant Chinese embassy or consulate before purchasing non-refundable travel. Review your passport and onward travel requirements. Save your accommodation address and booking details in English and Chinese.
Prepare payments and connectivity
Check whether your card can be linked to a supported payment app, and ask your bank about overseas use and verification. Bring a backup card and some renminbi cash. Fees, limits and acceptance vary. Arrange mobile data suitable for your phone, save a map offline and keep your hotel address available without a connection.
Plan your first transfer
Confirm the full name of your arrival airport or railway station; large cities often have several. Check the route to your accommodation, service hours and an alternative for a delayed arrival. If you take an intercity train, use the official 12306 English site as a starting point and check identity verification requirements before buying.
Leave space in your itinerary
Keep arrival day light and allow time between activities. Major attractions may have advance booking, identification or closure requirements, so check their official websites. Carry the identification used for your tickets, keep emergency contacts accessible and discuss specific medical or insurance needs with qualified providers. Policies and schedules can change; verify them again shortly before departure.