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China First Day
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Guides

The stuff that actually matters on day one.

Start with the checklist, then dig into whichever topic worries you most — payment, getting to your hotel, checking in, trains, apps, or your specific city.

How to use this page

1

Build your checklist first — it takes 5 minutes.

2

Then read the guide for whatever you're least sure about.

3

Save addresses, phrases, and booking details to your phone before you fly.

4

Check the city guide once you know where you're landing.

Core guides

Visa-Free And Entry Preparation Guide

Figure out what documents and details to double-check before you fly, so you're not guessing at the border.

When to read

Before booking or before departure.

Payment Setup Guide

Get your phone ready to pay before you land — mobile wallets, cards, cash, and what to do when the scanner says no.

When to read

Three to seven days before departure, then again before leaving the airport.

China Arrival Guide

Your first hour after landing: grab your bags, get online, sort transport, and get to your hotel without drama.

When to read

From landing to leaving the airport or station.

Train Booking Guide

China trains need real-name tickets and your actual passport. Here's how to buy, board, and not miss your train.

When to read

Before buying an intercity rail ticket.

Hotel Check-In Guide

Booking name, passport registration, late arrival, deposits — the stuff that trips people up at the front desk.

When to read

Before booking the first night, then again before landing.

Essential Apps Guide

Which apps to install before you fly, and how to make sure maps, translation, and ride-hailing actually work when you land.

When to read

Before departure, while the traveler still has stable internet and time to test setup.

Beijing First Day Guide

Landing at PEK or PKX? How to get to your hotel, what to wear, and where to eat your first meal in Beijing.

When to read

After choosing Beijing as the arrival city.

Shanghai First Day Guide

Pudong or Hongqiao? How to get to your hotel, sort payment on the way, and settle in for your first night in Shanghai.

When to read

After choosing Shanghai as the arrival city.

City guides coming up

City pages follow the same first-day structure: airport, hotel, payment, food, weather. More cities rolling out soon.

01

Shanghai

02

Beijing

03

Guangzhou

04

Shenzhen

05

Chengdu

06

Chongqing

07

Hangzhou

08

Xi'an

09

Qingdao

10

Kunming

Heads up

Rules and services change. For anything important — entry, transport, payment, hotels, telecom — double-check with official sources before you travel.