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It Just Got Easier for Americans to Visit China—Here's What to Know

By Matt Ortile

I was recently applying for a new passport, dreaming of all the new stamps and visas I’d collect, when I wondered: “Can Americans travel to China?” As it turns out, some recent policy changes out of Beijing have made it easier than ever to marvel at the Great Wall of China , take in the cosmopolitan bustle of Shanghai , and devour spicy Sichuan -style dishes at the source.

As of January 1, 2024, US travelers applying for tourist visas to China are no longer required to present proof of roundtrip tickets for travel, hotel reservations, or specific itineraries. The development came after a declaration in December by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States that states both countries mutually agreed to simplify the visa process in an effort to “facilitate people-to-people exchanges between China and the United States.”

To learn more about how US passport holders can travel to China, I reached out to travel specialists with deep expertise in tourism in China and Asia more broadly: Mei Zhang, the founder of WildChina and a member of Condé Nast Traveler ’s Global Advisory Board ; and Catherine Heald, co-founder and CEO of Remote Lands , a luxury travel advisor specializing in destinations throughout Asia.

Here’s what you need to know about traveling to China with a US passport in 2024.

Can Americans travel to China?

Yes, Americans can travel to China for tourism purposes. The country previously upheld travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, from early 2020 to March 2023. At the time, a quarantine period was required of anyone who entered the country; additionally, Zhang of WildChina explains, flights between the United States and China were extremely limited, and so tickets were prohibitively expensive .

Interest in travel to China has increased in recent months, says Heald of Remote Lands, thanks to the new visa application rules that have come into effect in 2024: “Even when the country opened, obtaining a visa was somewhat difficult, so it did not really see an influx of travelers from the US until this year.”

What kind of visa do I need to visit China?

US passport holders need a visa to visit China, obtained in advance of travel, i.e. there is no “visa on arrival” option. Tourist visas valid for ten years and good for multi-entry use must be acquired though a Chinese embassy or consulate, or a visa service. Currently, for US citizens, the cost for a tourist visa for travel to China is $140, whether for single-use or multi-entry use. This is a reduced fee, in effect until December 31, 2024 .

According to the Chinese embassy in the United States, the tourist visa application requirements include: a passport with at least six-months’ validity and two blank pages; a photocopy of the passport’s ID page; a completed application form, filled out online and printed; proof of residence, like a driver’s license or a utility bill; and a completed “ Where You Stay Form ” that attests the applicant is currently applying for a visa from within the US.

Admittedly, the steps are a bit more involved than the path you’d walk (or fly) to countries to which US citizens easily have access, or to destinations that offer visa-on-arrival programs. “When it feels too convoluted to navigate on your own, we recommend using a visa service like CIBT to make it easier,” Zhang says.

If you’re just transiting through China (if you have a 12-hour layover in Shanghai, for example, and want to go into the city before flying to your final stop), you’re in luck: Heald says that in certain Chinese cities, foreign nationals from 54 countries, including the US, are eligible for the 24-, 72-, or 144-hour transit visa-free policies, as long as they stay within certain areas and can present proof of confirmed dates of travel to a third country.

For first-timers visiting China, experts suggest an itinerary that includes one, two, or all three of the Chinese metropolitan triumvirate: Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai.

When is the best time to visit China?

Spring and fall are the best times to travel in China, according to Zhang and Heald. “ Summer can be very hot, depending on where you are in China, and also busier than usual, since kids are on summer break and traveling with their families during this time,” Zhang says.

She also recommends to plan travel around the calendar of Chinese national holidays, since travel can be more challenging due to the heightened amount of activity. “The main holidays to avoid are Chinese New Year, the May Day holiday in the first week of May, and Golden Week, which is the first week of October).” It’s a fair point, but if those times are what work for you, don’t let the craze of the crowds stop you. I imagine it would truly be an awesome sight to see, a Chinese city or town celebrating the Lunar New Year .

I’m visiting China for the first time—what city should I visit?

Both Zhang and Heald suggest an itinerary that includes one, two, or all three of the Chinese metropolitan triumvirate: Beijing , Xi’an, and Shanghai. Go for the Forbidden City and the Great Wall in the capital, see the iconic Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, and head to the Bund for the skyscraper-laden cosmopolitan side of China (where you can stay at the Peninsula Shanghai , an editor-favorite hotel featured on the Condé Nast Traveler Gold List for 2024 ).

By Madison Flager

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If you’re keen to get a little bit of all three—including the Sichuan city of Chengdu—Heald recommends the Classic China tour offered by Remote Lands that highlights some of the country’s most significant historical and cultural sites. (Also: pandas.) Speaking of nature, don’t be afraid to venture out of the cities, if time permits. For getting off the beaten path, Zhang recommends the mountainous province of Yunnan, while Heald mentions that travelers seeking spiritual experiences are going to Tibet (which requires another entry permit).

What else should Americans know before traveling to China?

It’s important to remember that the Great Firewall of China is very real: Websites like Google (including Gmail), YouTube, Facebook, and others are blocked in the country, Heald says, “especially if they touch on sensitive subjects.” She recommends downloading a VPN (virtual private network) to all of your devices before entering China, which allows you to freely use the Internet as usual. “If you do not wish to get a VPN, then plan accordingly and notify any concerned parties that you may be out of touch for a few days,” she says.

Still, China is changing at a rapid pace, Zhang notes. “Some of our recent travelers have described it as stepping into the future .” In the main cities, taxi cars are mostly electric. Sustainability is taking a leading role in development, and high-speed trains connect the entire country, with new rail lines opening regularly. Digital payments have swept every corner of the nation—“everybody from luxury stores to street food carts has a QR code”—and almost no one carries cash or credit cards. Zhang says, “For those who have visited China before, it has changed. And for those who have not visited before, you’re in for something wholly unexpected indeed.”

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40 China travel tips for 2024 (I swear by every one)

Posted by Mike Cairnduff | Updated February 2, 2024 | China blog , Travel

I’ve heard some pretty lousy China travel tips before.

“Bring an inflatable travel pillow”, the so-called experts will insist.

Clearly, they’ve never been to China before.

Having visited practically every corner of the country, let me share with you my best China travel tips.

There are 40 of them for you to enjoy!

Jump to section:

1. Never leave your hotel without toilet paper

Public toilets like these do not have toilet paper. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

You won’t find toilet paper in most Chinese toilets , let alone hot water to wash your hands with.

So, bring toilet paper with you wherever you go, unless you’re going on a luxury tour (and even then, you can’t guarantee it).

2. Always carry hand sanitizer with you

This ties in with number 1. Washing your hands with only cold water, and no soap, doesn’t kill all the germs.

That’s why I recommend carrying a small bottle of hand sanitizer along with your toilet tissue.

3. Pack the right way

Don’t forget the essentials for China. Image by Pixel-Shot on Shutterstock.

No, I don’t mean squeeze everything neatly into those pointless packing cubes.

I mean check out my super-duper packing list for China which outlines everything you should and shouldn’t bring.

If you have an extra-large body, it’ll be hard finding clothes in China that fit, so try not to forget anything.

4. Have your translation app ready

The language barrier in China is real. So, choose a translation app (like Google Translate) and make sure you know how to use it before you arrive.

Find out if you can access it offline while you’re touring, or whether you need a data connection.

The article on China travel apps will help.

5. Get a VPN before you go

If you want to use Wi-Fi in your hotel in China, and not burn through money using data on your own phone plan, you need a VPN in China.

A virtual private network (VPN) is essential to access most major websites, apps, and social media.

Here’s my review of the best ones in China (don’t get a crappy one – it won’t work). Or, if you’re pressed for time, go straight to the one I recommend here:

You need to download it to your devices before you go, not after you arrive in China or it won’t work.

6. Don’t bring a water bottle

Sorry, you’ll need to leave your environmental consciousness in your own country.

Chinese tap water isn’t safe to drink, so unless you want to fill up your bottle with boiled water (which is a pain in the backside), leave your bottle at home.

There are oodles of public water-filling stations across China, but in most cases the water is boiling or warm . Chinese people don’t like drinking cold water.

So, most foreign travelers buy bottled water in China. And hotels usually give you two free bottles per day.

7. Set up digital payments

Cash is barely used in China anymore. Image by Saelanlerez on Shutterstock.

The locals don’t use cards, and cash is almost extinct too.

Everyone uses payment apps – mostly WeChat Pay and Alipay. You can too by downloading one or both of the apps and linking your international bank card.

If you’re uncomfortable handing over your personal details including your passport details (as part of the registration process), you’ll need to use cash in China.

But this will be a pain, as many merchants don’t accept 100 yuan notes, and that’s all the ATMs spit out here. So, bring some low denomination cash (yuan) with you.

I highly recommend using Alipay or WeChat Pay though. It will make life so much easier.

See also: How to count money in Chinese

8. Don’t try to avoid crowds

It’s impossible. Everywhere is crowded in China, unless you’re in the middle of nowhere.

The only thing you can do is get to a tourist attraction just when it opens, or around midday when the hordes of Chinese tourists go off for lunch.

But even then, there’s no guarantee there won’t be other tourists.

When booking flights, tours and hotels , avoid the peak season which is during Chinese New Year and all the national Chinese holidays, which you can look up here .

9. Don’t forget your passport

This might sound silly at first, but it’s not.

You need to show your passport to get into any tourist attraction, as well as to buy and ride the high-speed trains.

The Chinese do the same, but they use their national ID card.

No ID? No entry.

10. Bring a travel adapter/converter

This international travel adapter has saved me a number of times in China. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Officially, the country runs on 220 V and appliances should have two or three angled prongs.

But there is no consistency among hotels, and you need to make sure you can charge your devices.

That’s why it’s a good idea to bring a travel adapter with all the variations, including the Hong Kong connection (UK type) if you’re heading there too.

Make sure your adapter is a converter too, if you’re from a country like the US which isn’t on 220 V.

11. Don’t tip unless you’re on a private tour (and it’s amazing)

Chinese people don’t tip as it’s not part of their culture. So, why should you?

If you really want to tip, then do it on a foreigners-only private tour where you received mind-blowingly great service.

There are some money-hungry guides on these foreigner tours and they will openly talk about tips.

12. Avoid coach tours

Speaking of tours, don’t go on those cheap and nasty big bus tours, e.g. to the Great Wall of China.

They’ll take you to the busiest, tourist section of the wall, which is Badaling.

You’ll be pressed for time too, because the guides will insist on taking you to a silk or tea factory where they make a commission on purchases.

And afterwards, they’ll take you to a huge hall for lunch where you’ll eat average, unauthentic food among hundreds of other noisy tourists.

Check out this page for travel tips specific to the nation’s capital, Beijing.

13. Try to visit smaller cities

I find people are friendlier in small cities too. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love most of the major cities.

Take Beijing, for example, which is jam-packed with culture and history .

There’s so much to do there, like visiting the enormous Forbidden City, pretty Summer Palace, and the infamous Tiananmen Square.

But, you really should take the time to visit some of the lesser-known cities, where you’ll still find amazing attractions, tasty local food, and interesting things to do.

Plus, there are significantly fewer tourists, if that matters to you.

My new favorite Chinese city is Yinchuan. It’s a northern desert city that has incredible things to do , and not many foreigners venture there.

There are also lots of incredible places in Southern China, especially Yunnan and Guangxi provinces.

I recommend starting in a nice modern city like Kunming or Nanning and then exploring from there.

14. Turn a blind eye to the spitting and coughing in your face

A lot has been written about this on The Helpful Panda (including an article I dedicated to it here ), so I won’t go into too much detail now.

All I’ll say is this – if you venture out of the big tourist centers, you’ll experience people spitting right at your feet, and coughing up their lungs without covering their mouth.

The deeper you get into China’s smaller cities, the worse it gets. Try to ignore it, if you can.

The article on tips for your first time in China may help you.

15. Wear dark running shoes

The ideal shoes for China. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Chinese streets are dirty, and your lovely clean shoes won’t be so lovely and clean within a few days of traveling.

My advice – bring black or dark colored walking shoes.

I’ve written a whole guide on what to wear in China if you need help.

16. Buy comprehensive travel insurance

Medical care is expensive in China.

If you’re hit by a car (many Chinese drivers don’t obey pedestrian zebra crossings), and you need to be hospitalized, you could be up for a small fortune. The Chinese government won’t foot the bill.

You can read my guide on medical insurance for China which talks more about this.

17. Don’t expect to learn any Chinese on a short trip

At most, you’ll learn “ni hao” (hello) and “bai bai” (bye bye).

It’s a really hard language to learn , and most foreigners who can speak the lingo have studied it for years, or have lived in China (or both).

As I mentioned earlier, have your translation app ready!

If you do want to learn some survival Mandarin before you arrive in China, I recommend LTL for online classes. They also have schools in China.

You can get my discount for LTL here .

18. Visit the Big Three

I highly recommend a trip to the Terracotta Army in Xi’an. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

If you want to see the most famous places on your trip to China, then head to:

• The Great Wall near Beijing – it’s bloody amazing
• The Terracotta Army in Xi’an – it’s also bloody amazing
• Panda sanctuary in Chengdu – the big fluff balls are bloody amazing.

The only challenge is these three cities are nowhere near each other. If you only have time to visit two of the best places, I suggest the first two.

19. Land in Shanghai

Shanghai is a good choice for first-time travelers. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

If you’re prone to culture shock, fly into Shanghai as your starting point.

It’s China’s most cosmopolitan city, and it’s where you’ll find all the creature comforts and many people can speak English there too.

After a few days, you’ll be a China pro and you can go on to tackle Beijing and the rest.

Check out  this page for travel tips specific to Shanghai.

20. Finish in Hong Kong

If you want to visit Hong Kong , do it on the way home, i.e. make it your last stop.

This is because you’ll most likely have a single-entry visa to mainland China, and so once you leave the mainland and enter HK, you would have to apply for another visa if you wanted to get back into the mainland.

Alternatively, you could make Hong Kong your very first stop on your China trip.

21. Get your tour guide’s recommendations on food

Constantly hound your tour guide for the best food and restaurant recommendations.

If you don’t, you could end up in those big soulless food halls en route to the attractions.

Chinese food is incredibly diverse and delicious, and it’s nothing like the Chinese food you eat back home.

Whether you’re into meat, vegies, spicy food, street food or yummy desserts , you’ll be spoiled for choice.

22. Get your visa sorted early

Unless you’re exempt from needing a visa, such as you qualify for Visa Free Transit, then you’ll need a  China tourist visa .

The process can take time, so don’t leave it to the last minute.

23. Avoid the no-frills Chinese airlines

Yuck. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

The Chinese aren’t known for their great service, and this is very true when it comes to Chinese airlines.

You can do what I’ve done and fly with a budget carrier for a low price (and a horrible experience) or fork out a few more dollars for a better carrier.

Otherwise, you could stick with a homegrown carrier that you know and love, which might be even more expensive.

Every time I go to China, I say to myself “Must fly with Qantas” but then somehow, I get swayed by the worse, cheaper option! Ahhh…

The largest Chinese airlines are China Southern, Air China, and China Eastern (and I would rank them in that order for service).

If you want to see how terrible their airlines can be, read my Beijing Capital Airlines review .

24. Entertain yourself

Some of the Chinese airlines, especially the smaller ones, have limited English movies on board. Or, the movies are really, really bad.

If you’re the kind of person who gets bored on long-haul flights, make sure you’ve got other ways to entertain yourself.

Some ideas:

• A tablet or laptop loaded with lots of movies and shows
• A book – physical or e-reader
• Music, magazines, games and playing cards.

Having some stuff to entertain yourself is especially important if you’re traveling solo .

See also: How long does it take to get to China?

25. Be wary of anyone that approaches you

Chinese people are curious and will stare at you. And in rural areas, they won’t stare, they will gawk.

However, they’re also generally shy and won’t be comfortable approaching you, as they don’t like making mistakes when they speak English .

This means they will leave you alone, which is great (especially for an introvert like me!).

So, if someone approaches you and invites you somewhere using great English, be extremely careful.

Unfortunately, there are some well-known tourist scams and I’d hate you to get caught out!

They almost always involve being invited to a place where you have to cough up an insane amount of money.

The most common one is known as the tea ceremony scam .

While I haven’t fallen for the tea ceremony trick yet, little old me has been scammed in China.

I was 19 at the time, and I had just flown into Pudong Airport in Shanghai.

An impeccably dressed man approached me. He said to follow him for a taxi (at this point, the alarm bells should have gone off, but I was young and naive).

He took me to a private car, locked my suitcase in the trunk, and then told me the exorbitant amount I owed the driver to get to my destination.

I was shattered.

But it was a good lesson learned. Now, if anyone approaches me in China, it’s an instant “no”, regardless.

26. Leave your boob tube at home

The local girls usually wear flowy and loose clothing , particularly when it comes to tops.

By all means, you can wear tight-fitting and revealing tops, but just be aware that men may leer at you.

The females I’ve traveled with have hated this. And I don’t blame them – they’ve even been filmed.

I’ve written a whole article on what to not to wear in China if you’re keen to learn more.

Spoiler alert: There aren’t too many things I recommend against wearing. China is fairly relaxed when it comes to clothing.

27. Have your hotel address handy

Multi-lingual directions are the best. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

I strongly recommend having your accommodation address on your phone in Chinese characters.

I always have it written down too, just in case my phone dies or I can’t bring up the information.

Without it, your taxi or Didi (China’s Uber) driver won’t know where to go. The name of the hotel won’t be enough, as Chinese cities are huge and there are countless places to stay.

28. Bring masks

Even though you don’t need to wear masks in China for COVID-19 anymore, it’s worth bringing a few in case you’re traveling around China and there’s a bad season of flu.

As I mentioned earlier, China is a crowded place and many people don’t cover their mouth when they cough and sneeze.

You could also invest in a proper anti-pollution mask if you’re headed for China’s smaller cities where the pollution can be nasty .

29. Travel in your preferred season

Most so-called China travel experts will tell you to come in spring or fall, regardless.

My advice is to travel in the season that you prefer. I personally prefer cold weather over hot weather, so I’d never aim to arrive in China in the middle of July.

Equally, tourist attractions aren’t as busy in the winter season (except during Lunar New Year), which is definitely an advantage to travel in this season.

Of course though, the best time to come in terms of pleasant or moderate weather is early spring or autumn .

But it’s ultimately your choice – the Chinese will welcome you (and your fat wallet) in any season.

30. Catch the train

China’s high-speed train network is insanely good. It’s clean, modern, and trains run perfectly on time.

Usually, it’s cheaper to take the train than fly domestically if your cities are relatively close. Plus, some of the high-speed train stations are connected to the city’s underground subway network.

So, it makes getting to your final destination easier and cheaper.

There are both first- and second-class carriages on the bullet trains. The difference is first-class passengers have more room – both legroom and chair width.

I’ve traveled on both first and second. If you have the money, I say go first-class (but I’m tall and I appreciate the extra room, so I’m probably a bit biased).

You can buy high-speed train tickets for China here .

31. Take extra care on the roads

A shared path in Nanjing spells danger. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

I touched on this point earlier.

Chinese drivers are a law unto themselves and zebra crossings are not necessarily safe. Try to cross the road in a large group, or tailgate someone.

And it sounds silly to say, but look in every direction when you cross the road. Vehicles don’t follow the rules you’re used to like, like obeying one-road streets.

But even if you play it super safe, you’ll have to watch for the electric scooters which are allowed to speed down the sidewalk.

32. Try to let things go

You’ll experience people cutting the queue right in front of you, and you may think people aren’t respecting your personal space.

This is China, and personal space doesn’t really exist.

If you can, try to let it go. It’s definitely not personal.

This is easier said than done (but if you’re living in China , you might get used to it).

33. Master chopsticks

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dW0Js2QpTPc Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: How to use chopsticks – 3 tips you should know (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dW0Js2QpTPc)

Well, not really master them, but at least try and get used to them before you arrive.

You won’t find knives and forks at restaurants in China, unless you happen to stumble upon a steak restaurant.

You can buy cute little travel cutlery sets if the thought of using chopsticks gives you nightmares.

34. Choose your restaurant wisely

Lots of restaurants in China have photos of the food, either on the board or in the printed menu.

This makes it so easy for foreign travelers. You simply point at the dish you want.

If you’re a fussy eater, or you really want to make sure you’re not eating something gross , then pull out your translation app.

35. Prepare for spice

My friend struggling with all that spicy food! Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Chinese food is God damn spicy!

While big cities like Chongqing and Chengdu in Sichuan province are known for their spicy dishes , I’ve found that restaurants in so many other places love serving up food that burns your mouth.

Tell the waiter “Bù yào là” (不要辣) and the chef will go easy on the chili. If you’re not confident saying that, just show them on your translation app.

Just note they won’t always follow your instructions. Sometimes the chef will insist that at least a bit of chili is included. I’ve been served bright red broth even though I said no chili.

36. Get your jabs

The only mandatory vaccination for China is yellow fever. But this only applies if you’re arriving from a country known for the disease.

This means there are no mandatory vaccinations for most people, including those flying directly to China from the USA , UK, Europe and Australia.

However, there are some recommended vaccinations for all travelers, as outlined here .

I also suggest staying away from animals, even stray dogs and cats. I’ve been scratched by a feral cat in China. The last thing you want is rabies!

37. Bring multiple cards, and tell your bank

It’s a big risk if you only bring one ATM card to China. You could lose it, or a machine could swallow it up.

I always bring multiple cards when I’m traveling to China. Even when I’m flying there, I put one card in my locked suitcase, while the others are in my wallet.

This is just in case I lose my wallet. It’s happened before.

I’ve traveled with friends in China – some of whom have only come with one card – and they’ve had to rely on me when they left their card in the ATM!

Also, tell your bank you’re visiting China, because they could put a block on your card if they see all the Chinese transactions (and yep, that’s happened to me before too).

38. Consider your SIM card

If you need or want to make phone calls from China back to your country, do a little research before you arrive.

Here are some options:

• Use your phone like you normally would – by far the most expensive option
• See if your phone company has an option to make cheaper calls while you travel
• Buy a travel SIM before you go, and put it in your phone (your phone must be unlocked)
• Buy a local SIM in China (your phone must be unlocked) – a good option if you’re in China for a while.

I recommend using a messaging app like WhatsApp , which you can use for free by using your hotel’s Wi-Fi.

Just remember to get your VPN before you arrive, as there are issues using messaging apps in China without a VPN.

39. Haggle at markets

Always bargain at markets like these. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Chinese people are born hagglers, and never accept the first price they’re given in places like markets.

If you’re not happy with the price, simply walk away and the merchant will usually come chasing.

Don’t worry if you can’t speak a word of Mandarin, the merchant will show you the price on their phone’s calculator.

40. Travel respectfully

It goes without saying, but don’t be an idiot when you travel.

Be respectful of the local Chinese culture , and don’t say anything controversial about the Chinese government.

And, just like you would in other countries, be respectful if you’re entering holy places. So, keep quiet and don’t take photos of monks.

If you’re headed somewhere like Xinjiang and want to step into a mosque, you’ll need to take your shoes off.

They’re my China travel tips, all wrapped up for 2024

Wow, that was quite the list, wasn’t it? I hope it didn’t overwhelm you.

At the end of the day, as long as you’ve got your passport, wallet and phone, then you’ll be able to do anything you want.

And whatever you do, don’t forget your VPN. See your options here or tap on the button below.

Let me know in the comments if you have any helpful suggestions of your own.

You’re going to have a great time!

I hope you learned a thing or two from my list of China travel tips. Now check out the best China travel apps so you’re digitally ready to go.

Main image credit: Supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

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Faq about my traveling to china tips, do i need a china travel vaccine.

The only mandatory vaccination for China is yellow fever, but it only applies if you’re arriving from a country known for the disease. This means there are no mandatory vaccinations for most people who visit China. However, some vaccines (e.g. typhoid, malaria) are recommended depending on where you’re going in China, as well as the kind of activities you plan on doing there.

How do I get a China travel visa?

Many countries now have a China Visa Service Center they can attend in person, or by applying through the post. For countries that don’t have a service center (e.g. USA), you need to apply at your nearest Chinese embassy in person or via a visa agent.

China travel: is it safe?

Yes, China is very safe for foreign tourists, especially when compared to other countries. China has a really low crime rate, and crimes against foreigners are practically unheard of. There’s an insane amount of surveillance cameras in China, too.

Can you travel China without a guide?

Yes, you can. The only exception is Tibet in Western China, where you need to be on a group tour. This is due to the historic sensitivities regarding Tibet.

Commercial relationship disclosure: The Helpful Panda has commercial arrangements with organizations that may appear on this page, such as affiliate links. See our terms for more info.

Mike Cairnduff

Mike has lived and worked in China, and has traveled extensively across the country. He loves Chinese food and has a keen interest in Chinese culture. You can follow him on X and LinkedIn .

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Asia , China , Solo Travel , Travel Tips

My solo trip to china (two weeks itinerary).

My solo trip to China was completely different and a memorable one. I’ve gathered some incredible experiences during my entire trip in various destinations from eastern to northern China. It was pretty interesting to discover many new things about this East Asian country for the first time. I loved the welcoming peoples, striking natural beauty, and exploring different destinations’ different variations was fun. Apart from the historical sites, it was surprising to see the glorious modern cities to classical ancient villages. Undoubtedly, there is a lot to do and see in China . Have you been to China? My China two weeks itinerary is packed with my travel experiences and tips for planning your own trip.

China’s visa policy varies from country to country, and best to check before planning a trip. I took one month visa before the visit and traveled via Dhaka-Singapore-Shanghai routes with Singapore Airlines .

Table of Contents

• 1 What is the Best Time To Visit China?
• 2.1 Shanghai
• 2.3 Huangshan
• 2.5 Xi’an
• 2.6 Beijing
• 3.1 Day 1: Shanghai
• 3.2 Day 2: Shanghai
• 3.3 Day 3: Suzhou
• 3.4 Day 4: Suzhou, Huangshan
• 3.5 Day 5: Huangshan
• 3.6 Day 6: Huangshan, Guilin
• 3.7 Day 7: Guilin
• 3.8 Day 8: Guilin
• 3.9 Day 9: Guilin, Xi’an
• 3.10 Day 10: Xi’an
• 3.11 Day 11: Xi’an
• 3.12 Day 12: Xi’an, Beijing
• 3.13 Day 13: Beijing
• 3.14 Day 14: Beijing
• 4 Are You On Pinterest? Click To Save This For Later Read!

What is the Best Time To Visit China ?

Spring (April – May) and Autumn (September – October) are the best times to visit China. I traveled in April and loved the weather – neither too hot nor cold. But remember, packing must be season-based due to weather variations in different regions. The northern part of China is cold enough than the southern part where you’ll face monsoon, So, you have to pack heavy to light clothes.

It is a must to download some essential applications before entering China. VPN download and installation are mandatory before boarding the flight to access all restricted sites from China. Another Chinese Baidu Translate voice translation App will help overcome the language barrier during your stay in China. WeChat App will help to communicate and payment transfers with local people.

It is best and common to travel by train in different regions once you’re in China. I pre-booked train and local air tickets from the Trip.com site. I loved China’s excellent high-speed or bullet train services during my entire trip to China. China train service is the best than local airlines; commonly, flights will be delayed. So, it is wise to go on a train journey when in China.

The subway is also a great option to travel on a budget around the cities. Rented private taxis will cost you high, but a good option is downloading the local DiDi-Rider App for an affordable ride in cities.

Proper planning on destination selections will save you time and money.  It is tough to cover all destinations during the first visit for far distances unless you stay longer.

It is recommended to check out some must-read travel books to visit China to know more details about its top places, culture, and food habits.

Where To Stay in China?

There is plenty of budget accommodations in China. And keeping in mind the best locations on any accommodation selection is a must to save time and some cash.

The hostel is the best option for saving a lot on accommodation. There are many standard hostels where even possible to stay in a single room at an affordable price. I mainly stayed in hostels and loved the atmosphere. It was not an issue staying with all locals in hostels. All are very cooperative and friendly.

I also stayed in hotels and preferred to go with mid-range to luxury. It is far better to stay in a hostel than in a budget hotel where you may not get all the standard facilities.

My solo trip to China started with the modern city Shanghai. Shanghai is a must-visit for the best shopping, good food, iconic skyscrapers, museums, parks, and gardens. I had no idea there are many top things to do in Shanghai . But I spent only two days which was not enough.

I stayed two nights in a dormitory room at Shanghai Blue Mountain Bund Youth Hostel , which is located in Downtown. The famous Nanjing Road is very close to this hostel. I liked the location and best for shopping and dining. It takes just a few minutes by walking to reach Shanghai’s heart, the Bund, from the hostel.

I spent one night in Suzhou, one of the beautiful cities in eastern China and just 50 miles away from Shanghai. I stayed at the 4-star Hotel Soul Suzhou located in Gusu District of the 150-year-old Guan Qian Street. I loved all the comforts and facilities of this beautiful hotel. The most famous Humble Administrator’s Garden is quite near to the hotel.

Many prefer to stay in Hangzhou, the most beautiful city in eastern China, to explore the West Lake. But I decided to stay in Suzhou to explore beautiful classical gardens. I should keep more days for Suzhou. There is a lot to see in this famous city of gardens. I also wish to visit Hangzhou on my next visit to China.

If you’re not interested to stay in Suzhou, it is even enjoyable to go for a day tour from Shanghai to Suzhou for exploring some of the best tourist attractions in the city.

It is worth staying in Huangshan to visit the famous Yellow Mountain and the ancient Hong village and Xidi village. The scenic and quiet Huangshan city is best for backpackers. I stayed two nights in a dormitory room at a budget-friendly Koala International Youth Hostel  located in Tunxi District. All are very hospitable of this hostel, and I had a good time with hostel mates.

Guilin is such a green and charming city in southern China. It is a popular tourist destination in China and best for backpackers as well. I loved all about Guilin for the scenery, and there is a lot to explore. I should have booked more days for Guilin but spent only two days!

I stayed in a single room at Guilin This Old Place Int’l Youth Hostel in Xiufeng District. Rong Lakeview around the hostel is simply excellent and such a photogenic spot. I loved all the hostel facilities; everything was so neat. It was best to move around the scenic location, Two Rivers and Four Lakes of the hostel.

It is also best to stay in a small resort town Yangshuo near Guilin city. The entire town is very picturesque for the breathtaking scenery of the Karst Mountains.

Xi’an

China’s northern large city Xi’an became a must-visit destination for the famous tourist spot Terracotta Army. I spent three nights in the city at the traditional Ancient City International Youth Hostel , located in the heart of the city on Lianhu Road. The location is good for shopping and eating, close to Muslim Street. I stayed in a single room, and the staffs were very cooperative.

China trip is incomplete without visiting the Great Wall of China in the capital city Beijing. Besides, all top historical sites are located in the northern city of Beijing. I spent three nights at the 200-year-old Qianmen Courtyard Hotel in Qianmen Street.

It was interesting to explore this oldest hotel for the beautiful Chinese oriental decor. The location is also excellent to shop and eat like a local. The famous Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City are nearby this hotel.

The famous Qianmen Street is good for budget accommodations. You’ll see many Chinese courtyard residences in each hutong converted into traditional Chinese-style hotels.

Two Weeks China Tour Itinerary [14 Days]

My two-week China tour itinerary included Shanghai, Suzhou, Huangshan, Guilin, Xi’an, and Beijing. I’ve visited and explored various top places from those cities. And found it is possible to travel to China on a Budget. You don’t have to spend more on accommodations and food. Besides joining some group tours in China, I explored around on my own.

Pre-booking the entire tour will cost you high. It is better to book local guided tours from China for exploring some must-visit and iconic tourist attractions like the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven .

How safe to travel solo in China? It is safe, and you’ll find locals are curious and helping in nature. You don’t need any extra precautions to travel all alone. You can join many group tours where English speaking guide is available in the big cities. I didn’t face any trouble as a solo female traveler during my 14 days in China. Read inside to get the itinerary and my complete China travel experiences.

Day 1: Shanghai

Nanjing Road, Pedestrian Street of East Nanjing Road

I arrived in Shanghai in the afternoon. On the way, it was great to see the first look at some of Shanghai’s iconic landmarks, including Oriental Pearl TV Tower , Shanghai World Financial center, and Shanghai Tower. Before leaving Pudong International Airport, I bought a China Unicom Prepaid SIM card to use during my 14 days trip to China.

It was fun spending my first day walking along Nanjing Road , Shanghai’s best shopping street. The eastern part of this road or Nanjing East Road is the central shopping hub where you’ll find many branded stores.

After evening this road became complete with many shoppers as indeed so much to explore and buy. I had a fun time while I enjoyed shopping a bit more from my favorite H&M brand store. I purchased several items – the red and black colored light jackets I worn during my entire China trip bought from this largest Shanghai H&M store.

There are also many food stalls on Pedestrian Street of East Nanjing Road to dine the best in the local restaurants. I enjoyed checking some fruit stalls and tried different Chinese fruits. Later came back to the hostel after eating with the farmer cooked mixed fish and Chinese bread.

Shanghai food was the best. I loved the Chinese food in Eastern China a bit more than other destinations of China. All in all, various Chinese fruits were simply the best to try a lot during my whole trip.

Day 2: Shanghai

Huangpu River Waterfront, The Bund, Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai World Financial Centre, Yu Garden, Shanghai Museum, Waibaidu Bridge

The second day I had a comfort breakfast with Chinese Noodles Soup from Blue Mountain Hostel. Later I went to explore the city on foot. I loved the Huangpu River Waterfront site the most. When in Shanghai exploring the Bund, the symbol of the city is a must. It was simply amazing to enjoy the best city views from this site.

There is a 45 km long Huangpu Riverside Walkway from where you’ll get to see all iconic skyscrapers on the east side of the River – China’s tallest building Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Centre , and Oriental Pearl Tower. And the west side of the Bund is lined with many historical buildings of different architectural styles. The iconic Swatch Art Peace Hotel is also located here. Walking along the Bund Sightseeing Avenue is fun, I loved to capture a lot of photos of this colorful waterfront area.

It is best to spend time at the waterfront site in the evening for all the lights. You can have the food from the food court and spend the leisure time. It is also fun to enjoy from here Huangpu River Cruise along the Bund.

The iconic Waibaidu Bridge or Garden Bridge is the beautiful one built-in 1907. It is the first long-span bridge in Shanghai.

Some other must-visit city attractions are the traditional Chinese Yu Garden and Shanghai Museum .

It is best to take a city sightseeing tour by bus to explore Shanghai’s top tourist attractions . You can book this from Nanjing Road. If you keep more days for Shanghai, you may visit Shanghai Disneyland Park for the ultimate fun in the theme park.

Day 3: Suzhou

Humble Administrator’s Garden, Suzhou Museum, Cruising along the Grand Canal, Guan Qian Street

The third-day early morning, I left for Suzhou; it took just half an hour to reach the city by high-speed train from Shanghai Railway Station. Hotel Soul Suzhou is very close to Suzhou Railway Station. I found it a must to bargain when renting any private taxi or rickshaw in China; most drivers ask for more rates, even for short distances.

It was one of the best experiences to visit Humble Administrator’s Garden, the largest one in Suzhou. This classical Chinese garden during the period of the Ming Dynasty in 1509 A.D. It was interesting to stroll around walkways, old houses, bridges, and ponds inside the garden. The garden is considered the model of the modern Chinese Garden.

The Museum of Suzhou is close to Humble Administrator’s Garden and one of the finest ones to explore.

Later I took a rickshaw ride and moved around the city. I also enjoyed a motorboat ride along the Ancient Grand Canal. During the 40 minutes ride, we crossed many old bridges, buildings and got the local lifestyle feel.

Some other top Suzhou gardens are Lingering Garden, Lion Forest Garden, Net-Master Garden. And all together known as the Classical Gardens of Suzhou and now UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It was fun to walk along 150-year-old Guan Qian Street in the afternoon, best for shopping and eating like a local. This place became touristic and festive in the evening. I found Chinese people love fun and laughter; they all together in a group enjoy strolling around, shop, eat and talk a lot hehe.

Day 4: Suzhou, Huangshan

Suzhou to Huangshan scenic high-speed train ride, Tunxi Old Street

The fourth day after a buffet breakfast at the hotel, I left Suzhou for Huangshan. I took a high-speed train from Suzhou North Railway Station or SuzhouBei Railway Station. Three hours train journey from Suzhou to Huangshan was scenic and comfortable.

I reached HuangshanBei Railway Station in the afternoon for two-night stay in the city.

After arriving at the hostel, I booked day tours for the next two days. In the evening strolled around Tunxi Old Street. I joined one of my hostel mates, and we took a public bus to reach the destination. The bus service was good and best for budget travelers.

We had dinner at one local restaurant. The restaurant owner was too curious and took selfies with us. It is the typical scenario in China, hehe.

Day 5: Huangshan

Hongcun village

The fifth day was for Ancient Hong village or Hongcun village visit in Hongcun Town. After breakfast from the hostel, I joined a group tour to explore the most picturesque Hong village that belongs to southern Anhui Province. It was a bus tour, and the roadside landscape was fantastic.

The Chinese Hongcun village is like a canvas and seems like many artists lovingly painted each corner of this village. Many residences from Ming and Qing Dynasties are there in the village. You’ll see many artists or art students paint or practice paintings on a canvas here.

Both Hongcun and Xidi villages are listed as the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The action film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, was filmed in Hongcun.

The local guide explained all about the Hong village in Chinese, and there was no English-speaking guide.

Day 6: Huangshan, Guilin

Yellow Mountain

On the sixth day after breakfast, there was a tour to Huangshan Mountain or Yellow Mountain. It is the top tourist attraction in Huangshan and also the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can reach the top of the mountains via cable car. Watching the sunrise is best from Yellow Mountain. But only possible if you stay in a hotel nearby the mountain.

I had a memorable goodbye with cute gifts as a token of love from the Koala Youth Hostel.

In the evening, I had a flight for Guilin with Air Guilin from Huangshan Tunxi Airport. But the flight was detailed three times and could reach Guilin at last after 4 AM local time. Just for two hours journey had to wait so long in the airport.

Day 7: Guilin

Two Rivers and Four Lakes, Rong Lake Scenery Area

The stunning mountainous view from the rooftop of the Old Place Hostel made my morning. I kept my seventh day in China to see one of the most famous scenic spots of Guilin,

Two Rivers and Four Lakes. And mainly explored by walking the Scenery Area of Rong Lake.

The Two Rivers (Lijiang River, Peach Blossom River) and Four Lakes  – Rong Lake, Shan Lake, Gui Lake, Mulong Lake form the most beautiful scenery in Downtown Guilin. There are total of 19 famous bridges and built to strengthen the scenic area.

Glass Bridge, Mid-lake Island, Beidou Bridge, Ancient Banyan Twin Bridges, Ancient Southern Gate, Rongxi Bridge, Yingbin Bridge are some of the beautiful spots worth visiting around the Rong Lake Scenery Area.

It was lovely to stroll around, so many beautiful walkways – so lavish green is the Guilin city. I loved to see how nicely protected the grass and trees. Later I had a delicious lunch with Italian Pizza from the on-site restaurant of the hostel. Each bite was so yum!

Elephant Hill Scenic Area and Sun and Moon Towers are some of the city’s top sightseeing places. Guilin by night comes out so charming for Two Rivers and Four Lakes. And so, after evening, cruising is a popular activity around this scenic spot.

Day 8: Guilin

Li River Cruise, Yangshuo, Shangri-La Theme Park

On the eighth day , I took Guilin’s scenic route to Yangshuo for a cruise trip down to the famous Li River. The Lijiang River cruising is fascinating for the stunning Karst mountains and river sight views.

Li River Karst mountains scene is there on 20 Yuan banknote. Bamboo Raft Cruise is popular on the Li River.

Then we visited Shangri-La Theme Park from Yangshuo County. Shangri-La’s viewpoint with the backdrop of the Karst Peaks is too scenic. Simply a beautiful countryside surrounding mountains, rivers, bridges, houses. We enjoyed a short boat ride and got to know the story and local customs behind the beautiful spot Shangri-La in Guilin.

This countryside whole day group tour was from Guilin to Yangshuo and Shangri-La guided by English speaking guide.

If you keep one more day, it is best to go with Longji Terraced Field tour out of Guilin city.

Day 9: Guilin, Xi’an

Lianhu Road, Muslim Street

On the ninth day morning, I was left for Xi’an from Guilin. The road is so scenic with the mountain view that leads to the beautiful Guilin Liangjiang International Airport. It was lovely to fly with Air Chang’an. Within two hours arrived at the Xi’an Xianyang International Airport for three days trip to the northern cultural city Xi’an in China.

In the afternoon moved around local markets on Lianhu Road. I loved to check mainly seasonal fruit stalls. There are also many clothing stores, best to shop and eat on a budget.

Later in the evening visited some food markets of the famous Muslim Quarter of Xi’an Muslim Street . And tasted noodles and fresh Pomegranate juice from one food stall. I decided to go for a street food tour another day to explore this street known as Bei Yuan Men Muslim Culture Street.

For the next day, I booked all for the Xi’an Terra Cotta tour.

Day 10: Xi’an

Fortifications of Xi’an, Terracotta Figures Factory, Furniture Museum, Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum

On the tenth day , I joined a group tour by bus to explore the top Xi’an city attraction Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum, UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The guide explained the ancient City Wall of Xi’an, which is also known as Fortifications of Xi’an. We didn’t get down at the spot; a bike ride thr ough the old City Walls of Xi’an is fun.

We stopped at one Terra-cotta Figures Factory to see the process of making terracotta sculptures. This factory is also connected with one Furniture Museum where showcases all furniture from Ming Dynasty.

Terracotta Army was built in the third century BCE but first discovered by some local farmers in 1974. One farmer is still alive, and his name is Yang Ji De. He has a restaurant on the site. We had our first lunch at that farmer’s restaurant before visiting Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum.

More than 8,000 terracotta figures were built under China’s first emperor Qin Shi Huang by millions of laborers. It was all to protect his life after death. Not only laborers but also many artisans had been involved in Terracotta Warrior’s construction.

Interestingly, each figure of the Terracotta Army is different and very detailed. No way to find any similarity. The entire mausoleum site is a museum for further research and protection.

Day 11: Xi’an

Bei Yuan Men Muslim Culture Street, Flea Markets, Xi’an Great Mosque, Drum Tower, Bell Tower

On the eleventh day enjoyed Xi’an city tour by walking to explore nearby city attractions. It was fun to try various Xi’an foods from Bei Yuan Men Muslim Culture Street. Both sides of the 1100-meter-long street are lined with many delicious and halal food. There are also many fruit stalls best for fresh Chinese fruits and juices.

At the end of this street will take you to visit the Drum Tower, flea markets, and the Great Mosque of Xi’an.

The popular tourist attraction Bell Tower is also possible to explore on foot, located very close to North Avenue.

Day 12: Xi’an, Beijing

Qianmen Street, Dashilan Pedestrian Street

On the twelfth day , I had to leave Xi’an for Beijing. The best way was to take the subway very close to the hostel to reach Xi’an North Railway Station. It took four and half hours to reach Beijing West Railway Station.

My last three days in China kept for Beijing’s ancient and historical city to visit several UNESCO Heritage Sites, including the Wonder of the World Great Wall of China.

In the afternoon, it was fun to walk along cute alleys or hutongs of Qianmen Street. It is a famous pedestrian street built in Ming and Qing Dynasties.

There are many oriental decorated hotels, traditional courtyard residences, markets, and restaurants in each hutong. You may also go for an old hutong tour by pedicab.

I had also moved around Dashilan Pedestrian Street, best for budget shopping and eating.

Later I booked Beijing city sightseeing tour and Great Wall tour for the next two days.

Day 13: Beijing

Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Consultation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Temple of Heaven, Pearl House, Summer Palace

The thirteenth-day Beijing city sightseeing tour started from the historic Tiananmen Square located in the Beijing city center. The square contains the Mausoleum of the former chairman of the People’s Republic of China Mao Zedong or Mao Tse Tung, the National Museum of China, the Monument to the People’s Heroes, and the Great Hall of the People.

Forbidden City is the ancient imperial palace from Ming and Qing dynasties from 1420 to 1912. No one could enter the palace besides royal families and high officials, so the name is Forbidden City. Now Forbidden City is the most visited Palace Museum in China. More than one million art pieces are there for the visitors to explore at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Then our tour guide took us to visit one Consultation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine to know all about Traditional Chinese Medicine. We got a free consultation with a foot massage.

After lunch, we visited the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, which represents ancient Chinese culture. This beautiful temple complex is the UNESCO World Heritage Site built during the dynasties of Ming and Qing for annual prayer ceremonies to Heaven for a good harvest.

We visited one Pearl House where showcases various products of original Pearl and jewelry. I bought one Pearl locket.

Then we visited the beautiful Summer Palace of the Qing Dynasty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the former imperial garden and surrounded by Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake.

Summer Palace is a scenic spot consists of lakes, gardens, pavilions, palaces, halls, temples, and bridges. The gorgeous 17-Arch Bridge in Kunming Lake is one of the top attractions of the Summer Palace.

Day 14: Beijing

National Stone Place, Minh Tombs, Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, Chinese Tea House

The fourteenth day morning left for a guided tour to visit first the Tombs of Ming in the Tianshou Mountain. On the way, we first stopped at one Jade Shop, a National Stone Place, to know the importance of the jade stone to the Chinese peoples. Jade is a stone of longevity for them, and interesting to see various crafts on the stone.

Tombs of Ming are a collection of thirteen tombs of the Ming Dynasty. There are burial chambers of thirteen emperors at the underground palace of the Ming Tombs. Mausoleums were built by the emperors of the Ming Dynasty for their ‘Heavenly Life.’ The site has also been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After a delicious Chinese lunch, we finally visit the New Seven Wonders of the World Great Wall of China . This longest Great Wall became the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

We explored the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. I took the cable car to go up and down. It is also possible to hike and reach the section. The view is fantastic, and I enjoyed walking up and down the stairs.

China tour is incomplete without taking a sip of Chinese tea, the national drink of China. The last stop was to visit one Tea House to learn about top must-try Tea in China . They showed us the process of tea making and gave us to taste. I also bought several types of Chinese Tea.

At night I had some shopping from Dashilan Shopping Street, and it was my last day in China.

The following day left Beijing for Singapore by collecting all good memories from my 14 days solo trip to China.

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Any other top tips to add for a trip to China? Comment your China travel experiences below!

Nafisa Habib

Nafisa Habib loves nature and often got fascinated by old beautiful architecture. Here she is with My Own Way To Travel to share her adventures on the road. To her nothing is so interesting than exploring new destinations around. And knowing a new culture and meeting new peoples on the road? Oh, yeah she just loves that too.

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Travel Advisory April 12, 2024

Mainland china, hong kong & macau - see summaries.

Updated due to new national security legislation in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

Summary:  Reconsider travel to Mainland China due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including in relation to exit bans, and the risk of wrongful detentions.

Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws .

Reconsider travel to the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services . Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Macau SAR due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws .

See specific risks and conditions in each jurisdiction . 

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Recommend consult with travel clinic

Max RMB 20,000

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Beijing No. 55 An Jia Lou Road Chaoyang District, Beijing 100600 Telephone: +86 10-8531-4000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +86 10-8531-4000 Fax: +86 10-8531-3300 Email: [email protected] This consular district includes Beijing, Tianjin, Gansu, Hebei, Ningxia, Qinghai, Shaanxi, Shandong, Shanxi, Xinjiang, Chongqing, Sichuan, and Tibet.

U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau 26 Garden Road Central, Hong Kong Telephone:  +852 2841-2211, +852 2841-2225, +852 2841-2323   Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +852 2523-9011   Fax:  +852 2845-4845 Email:   [email protected]   This consular district includes the Hong Kong and Macau Special Administrative Regions (SARs).

U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou No. 43 Hua Jiu Road Zhujiang New Town Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510623 Telephone: +86 20-3814-5775 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +86 10-8531-4000 Fax: +86 20-3814-5572 Email:   [email protected]  This consular district includes Yunnan, Guizhou, Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi, and Hainan.

U.S. Consulate General Shanghai No. 1469 Huai Hai Zhong Road Xuhui District, Shanghai 200041 Telephone: +86 21-8011-2400  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +86 10-8531-4000  Fax: +86 21-6148-8266  Email:   [email protected]  This consular district includes Shanghai, Anhui, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang.

U.S. Consulate General Shenyang No. 52 14th Wei Road Heping District, Shenyang 110003 Telephone: +86 24-2322-1198  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +86 10-8531-4000 Fax: +86 24-8610-6904  Email:  [email protected]  This consular district includes Inner Mongolia, Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning.

U.S. Consulate General Wuhan No. 396 Xin Hua Road Wuhan Minsheng Bank Building Jianghan District, Wuhan 430015 Telephone: +86 27-8563 2800  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +86 10-8531-4000  Fax:  +86 27-5949 6496 Email:  [email protected] This consular district includes Henan, Hubei, Hunan, and Jiangxi.

Destination Description

See the U.S. Department of State’s Fact Sheet on the People's Republic of China for information on U.S.-China relations. 

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Entry & Exit:

• Obtain a visa prior to arrival in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and have a passport with at least six months' validity remaining. The lack of either will result in a fine and immediate deportation upon arrival.
• Apply for a ten-year multiple entry visa, useful for repeated travel, or trips to the Hong Kong or Macau Special Administrative Regions (SARs) with returns to mainland China.
• If you plan to work in the PRC, be sure to obtain the correct visa. Working in the PRC is not permissible on a student or tourist visa, and may result in detention, criminal charges, imprisonment, and deportation.
• You must have a valid visa to exit the PRC and you must leave the PRC before the expiration of the listed duration of stay.
• Do not travel to the PRC if you have a warrant for your arrest in the United States.

Lack of a visa, having an expired visa, or overstaying your visa will result in detention and/or fines.

• Apply for a visa extension from the local  Entry-Exit Bureau  before attempting to leave the PRC. Do not expect your request to be expedited, so apply ahead of time.
• Staying in the PRC on an expired visa may lead to a fine, imprisonment, and deportation.
• Visit the website of the  Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America  for current visa information as well as information on the PRC’s immigration and nationality laws.

The Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR): The TAR requires special permits for tourist travel, most often obtained through a travel agent in the PRC. If you do enter a restricted area without the requisite permit, you could be fined, taken into custody, and deported for illegal entry. To learn more about specific entry requirements for the TAR or other restricted areas, check with the  Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America . The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of the PRC. Transiting the PRC:

• When transiting certain international airports, you may stay in mainland China without a PRC visa. However, this “visa-free travel” permit is only valid for the city of arrival and does not allow you to visit other cities in the PRC.
• The duration of allowed stay and how broadly you may travel varies by region.
• Transiting without a visa requires a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity, a visa for your onward destination (if necessary), and an onward ticket from the same location.
• You must inform your airline upon check-in and get an endorsement stamp at the immigration desk before leaving the airport.
• Consult the  Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America  for a current list of eligible airports and more detailed guidance.
• PRC border officials have the authority to deny foreign travelers’ entry to the PRC without warning or explanation. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General cannot intervene on your behalf if denied entry to the PRC.

During Your Stay: 

• Failure to register your stay within 24 hours of arrival in the PRC could result in fines and deportation. You can register with hotel staff or the local police station. 
• Local regulations require foreigners to carry valid passports and PRC visas or residence permits at all times.
• Entry and exit requirements are strictly enforced, as are restrictions on activities allowed by any particular visa class.
• Police, school administrators, transportation officials, and hotel staff may check your visa to make sure you have not overstayed. If you overstay your visa’s duration of stay, you may be denied service by hotels, airports, and train stations, as well as face fines and detention.
• If you encounter problems in the Tibet Autonomous Region, the U.S. government has limited ability to provide assistance because the PRC government does not usually authorize U.S. government personnel to travel there, even to provide consular assistance to U.S. citizens.

Dual Nationality: The PRC government does not recognize dual nationality.  If you are a dual national of the United States and the PRC, or otherwise have ethnic or historical ties to the PRC, it is possible that PRC authorities will assert that you are a PRC citizen, limit your ability to access certain consular services, and, if you are detained, deny your access to U.S. consular officials. Because the PRC government does not recognize dual citizenship, dual U.S.-PRC citizens may face a number of hurdles when seeking public benefits in the PRC. U.S. citizens who are also citizens of the PRC may experience difficulty in accessing benefits in the PRC, such as enrollment in public schools, treatment at public hospitals and clinics, or obtaining PRC identity and citizenship documents, such as passports. U.S.-PRC dual citizens must navigate conflicting aspects of PRC nationality, which the PRC government may inconsistently apply.

If you are a naturalized U.S. citizen or have a possible claim to PRC citizenship, and you are traveling to the PRC, inform yourself about PRC nationality law and practices relating to determination and loss of PRC citizenship. PRC authorities generally consider a child born in the PRC to at least one PRC-national parent to be a PRC citizen, even if the child was issued a U.S. passport at the time of birth. If you have or had a claim to PRC citizenship and your child is born in the PRC, prior to departing the PRC with your child, you may wish to contact the local Public Security Bureau and/or Entry-Exit Bureau for information on obtaining a travel document. If you have or had a claim to PRC citizenship and your child is born in the United States, please contact the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America for specific information on the documentation requirements to bring your child to the PRC.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

For most visitors, the PRC remains a very safe country. Traffic accidents are the most common safety concern for U.S. citizens. Training, capability, and responsiveness of PRC authorities vary by region and even by city. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General have no law enforcement authority and may not represent U.S. citizens in either criminal or civil legal matters.

To ensure your safety and security in the PRC, you should:

• Take routine safety precautions.
• Pay attention to surroundings.
• Report any concerns to the local police.
• Call “110,”  the local equivalent to “911”. English services are often available, but you should not expect English services in remote parts of the PRC.

Violent crime is not common in the PRC, however:

• While sanctioned demonstrations must be approved by PRC authorities, they can turn violent.
• Domestic unrest and terrorism can occur.
• Business disputes between U.S. citizens and PRC-national business partners can sometimes result in physical confrontation, detainment, or coercion. Go straight to the police if you feel threatened or relocate to a public place.

Be alert to criminal schemes, such as:

• “Tourist Tea” Scams: PRC nationals invite visitors out to tea and leave them with an exorbitant bill.
• Phone Scams:  Callers pose as police officers and request a funds transfer to resolve an identity theft or money laundering investigation. In these cases, DO NOT WIRE any money. If you receive any suspicious calls or requests, contact the local Public Security Bureau to verify the caller’s identity.
• “Unlicensed or Unapproved Cabs”:  Taxi and ridesharing services in China are generally licensed by authorities. Be cautious when using taxi or ridesharing services that are not accessible through mobile applications. If you use the locally approved taxi service, insist that the driver use the meter, and get a receipt. Have the name of your destination written in Chinese characters and ask the driver to remove the bags from the trunk before you get out of the taxi and before you pay.
• Counterfeit Currency:  Although counterfeit currency has been a concern in the PRC the past, making purchases in cash is increasingly less common as most vendors prefer payments through local mobile payment apps. When you need cash, use only ATMs at trusted financial institutions, and carry a variety of denominations as vendors may have limited cash on hand as change.

Be alert to criminal schemes, such as internet, phone scams, dating scams, as well as financial scams. If you already have been victim of a scam, catalogue as many details as possible, including names, telephone and bank numbers, and email and IP addresses; file a police report, and inform the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate General. See the  U.S. Department of State's  and the  U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)'s  pages for information on scams. Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police and contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest Consulate General. U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault can contact the local police and should contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate General.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime. See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

We can: 

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States .
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Lost or Stolen Passports:  If your passport is stolen, you must apply for both a new passport at the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate General and a new PRC visa. File a police report at the nearest police station right away. You may also be directed to file a report at the local Exit-Entry Bureau .

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate General for assistance. Domestic violence in the PRC is rarely recognized as a crime.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the PRC government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:   You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.

Some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. See  crimes against minors abroad  and the U.S. Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate General immediately.

• PRC authorities must notify a U.S. consular officer within four days; however, this does not always occur in a timely manner.
• A consular officer may be the only authorized visitor during your initial detention period.
• Bail is rarely granted.
• Detention may last many months before a trial.
• The U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate General is unable to represent you in a legal matter.
• Travelers to the PRC should enroll in the State Department’s  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  and you may wish to have someone contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate General if you are detained.
• Please see the section on DUAL NATIONALITY for the limits on consular notification and access to dual nationals.
• See U.S. Department of State’s  webpage  for further information.

The PRC legal system can be opaque and the interpretation and enforcement of local laws arbitrary. The judiciary does not enjoy independence from political influence. U.S. citizens traveling or residing in the PRC should be aware of varying levels of scrutiny to which they will be subject from local law enforcement and state security. 

Certain provisions of the Criminal Law of the People’s Republic of China, such as “social order” crimes (Article 293) and crimes involving “endangering state security” and “state secrets” (Article 102 to 113), are ill-defined and can be interpreted by the authorities arbitrarily and situationally. Information that may be common knowledge in other countries could be considered a “state secret” in the PRC, and information can be designated a “state secret” retroactively. Drug and Alcohol Enforcement:

PRC law-enforcement authorities have little tolerance for illegal drugs, including marijuana. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in the PRC are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences, heavy fines, or the death penalty. Police regularly conduct unannounced drug tests on people suspected of drug use and have been known to enter a bar or nightclub and subject all patrons to immediate drug testing. Police may force you to provide a urine, blood, or hair follicle sample on short notice. A positive finding, even if the drug was legal elsewhere or consumed prior to arriving in the PRC, can lead to immediate detention, fines, deportation, and/or a ban from re-entering the PRC.

The PRC also has strict laws against driving under the influence of alcohol that can lead to immediate detention on a criminal charge.

Assisted Reproductive Technology:  In vitro fertilization (IVF) is widely and legally practiced. PRC law, however, strictly forbids surrogacy, and surrogacy contracts will not be considered valid. The use of reproductive technology for medical research and profit is strictly controlled. Contracts and Commercial Disputes:  Before entering into a commercial or employment contract in the PRC, have it reviewed by legal counsel both in the United States and in the PRC. The  U.S. International Trade Administration  can assist you in identifying and vetting business contacts and opportunities but may not intervene in contract disputes. Many U.S. citizens have reported difficulty getting their contracts enforced by PRC courts or being forced out of profitable joint-ventures without opportunity to secure legal recourse in the PRC. Counterfeit Goods:  Do not buy counterfeit or pirated goods. Bootlegs are illegal in the United States, and you may also be breaking local law by purchasing them.

Cruise Ship Passengers:  Click here for  safety information and travel advice .

Digital Payments: The PRC has transitioned to almost a predominantly cashless society. Some mobile phone applications offer a digital payment solution for individuals visiting the PRC on a temporary or long-term basis. Often, payment is made through an individual using their mobile phone to scan a vendor or business’s QR code. The number of locations accepting foreign credit cards has decreased in recent years. Visitors to the PRC should research whether the locations they are visiting will accept foreign credit cards and familiarize themselves with mobile digital payment options prior to traveling to the PRC.

Earthquakes:  Earthquakes occur throughout the PRC. Check here for information about preparing for a crisis or disaster overseas.

English/Secondary School Teachers:  English teachers in the PRC frequently report employment disputes which can result in questioning by local authorities, termination, lost wages, confiscation of passports, forced eviction from housing, and even threats of violence.

Exit Bans:  Business disputes, court orders to pay a settlement, or government investigations into both criminal and civil issues may result in an exit ban which will prohibit your departure from the PRC until the issue is resolved. Even individuals and their family members who are not directly involved, or even aware of these proceedings, can be subject to an exit ban. Additionally, some local businesspeople who feel that they have been wronged by a foreign business partner may hire "debt collectors” to harass, intimidate, and sometimes physically detain foreign business partners or family members in hopes of collecting the debt. The U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate General can provide a list of local attorneys who serve U.S. clients but are otherwise unable to intervene in civil cases. Local law enforcement authorities are generally unwilling to become involved in what they consider private business matters and may not provide the individual who has been barred from leaving the PRC with any written notice of the exit ban.

Faith-Based Travelers:   See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Reports
• Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  Same sex marriages are not legally recognized in the PRC and local authorities will not provide marriage certificates to same-sex couples. There are no civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination or harassment based on sexual orientation or gender identity, though homosexuality has been decriminalized. Prejudices and discrimination still exist in many parts of the country. There are growing LGBTQI+ communities in some of the largest cities in the PRC and violence against LGBTQI+ individuals in the PRC is relatively rare. See  Section 6 of our Human Rights Practices in the Human Rights Report for the People's Republic of China  and read our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information page .

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs):  In January 2017, the PRC implemented a law regulating the operations of foreign NGOs in the PRC. NGOs and their employees should ensure they are complying with all relevant statutory requirements, particularly if working in sensitive areas or fields. Additionally, the PRC government announced sanctions on five U.S.-based NGOs in December 2019.

North Korea:  Do not travel to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea) due to the serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals. For further information, consult the  North Korea International Travel Information page  and the  North Korea Travel Advisory .

Political and Religious Activity:  Participating in unauthorized political or religious activities, including participating in public protests or sending private electronic messages critical of the government   may result in detention and PRC government-imposed restrictions on future travel to the PRC. Although the PRC constitution permits freedom of religious belief, it does not permit freedom of religious practice and government officials are increasing pressure on domestic religious activities. The U.S. Mission to the PRC has observed an increase in the number of U.S. citizens being interrogated, detained, and/or forced to leave the country in connection with real or perceived religious proselytization. U.S. citizens have been detained and/or expelled for distributing religious literature, including Bibles, or engaging in unauthorized religious meetings. If you bring religious literature with you, local law dictates that it be a “reasonable amount” for your personal use. If you attempt to bring larger quantities, the literature will likely be confiscated and you may be fined, detained, or deported. Social Insurance:  The PRC has a social insurance system to which foreigners who work in the PRC must contribute. When you sign an employment contract, you must apply for a social insurance number, and it is important that your employer work with you to comply with the regulations. Please check the official website for updated information. Social Media:  Social media accounts are widely monitored in the PRC. Local authorities may use information they deem critical, controversial, or that might involve illegal activity against both the poster of the material and the host of the social media forum under local law. Individuals have also been held responsible for the content that others place within social media spaces they control, such as the comments section under a post or within a group chat that an individual controls.

Special Scrutiny of Foreign Citizens:  On occasion, U.S. citizens visiting or resident in the PRC have been interrogated or detained for reasons said to be related to “state security.” In such circumstances, you could face arrest, detention, or an exit ban prohibiting your departure from the PRC for a prolonged period. Dual U.S.-PRC nationals and U.S. citizens of Chinese heritage may be at a higher risk of facing such special scrutiny. Information about  dual nationality  can be found on our website. Students: See our  U.S. Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Surveillance and Monitoring:  Security personnel carefully watch foreign visitors and may place you under surveillance. Hotel rooms (including meeting rooms), offices, cars, taxis, telephones, internet usage, ​digital payments, and fax machines may be monitored onsite or remotely, and personal possessions in hotel rooms, including computers, may be searched without your consent or knowledge. Security personnel have been known to detain and deport U.S. citizens sending private electronic messages critical of the PRC government. Transferring Money to/from the PRC:  The regulatory environment in the PRC includes tightening capital outflow controls that can severely impact one’s ability to move money out of the country. Wire transfers may only be available to those who have an active bank account in the PRC. Ask your local bank location in the PRC for more information. The U.S. Department of State may be able to help transfer funds to a destitute U.S citizen overseas through our office in Washington, D.C., to a U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate General abroad. More information on this option is available  here .

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:  U.S. citizens with mobility disabilities may face challenges while traveling in the PRC. Sidewalks often do not have curb cuts and many streets can be crossed only via pedestrian bridges or underpasses accessible by staircase. Assistive technologies for blind people and those with other vision disabilities are unreliable, and access to elevators in public buildings can be restricted. In major cities, public restrooms in places visited by tourists usually have a least one accessible toilet. See  Persons with Disabilities in the Human Rights Report for the People's Republic of China (2022) .

Typhoons:  The southeast coast of the PRC is subject to strong typhoons and tropical storms, usually from July through September. For current information, please consult the Joint Typhoon Warning Center in Honolulu  and the  National Weather Service's Central Pacific Hurricane Center . Women Travelers: If you are a woman traveling abroad, please review our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region:  Extraordinary security measures are in place through the region. Authorities may impose curfews and restrictions on short notice. They may also engage in invasive surveillance techniques against individuals. Expect significant travel delays, avoid gatherings and demonstrations, always carry ID, and follow the instructions of local authorities. Travelers with ethnic ties to the region may experience special restrictions, discrimination, and even arbitrary detention.

COVID-19 Entry Requirements: There are no COVID-related entry requirements in place for U.S. citizens.

• As of August 30, 2023, a negative COVID-19 PCR test or rapid antigen test is no longer required for entry. For more information, please see this notice .
• No proof of vaccination against COVID-19 is required for entry.
• There is no quarantine period for travelers upon arrival.

COVID-19 Testing: U.S. citizens can obtain a COVID-19 test at most hospitals and clinics in the PRC. They can choose between PCR and antigen tests, which are both available. The cost of the test is about $17 U.S. dollars, but it may vary depending on the location. The test fee is not covered by the host government and must be paid by the U.S. citizen. Test results are usually returned within 12 to 24 hours by email, text, or an update to the local COVID-19 monitoring app. For more information, please see this notice .

COVID-19 Vaccines:  Certain COVID-19 vaccines are available for U.S. citizens to receive in the PRC.

• The PRC government has conditionally authorized several vaccines that are currently available to foreigners residing in the PRC. The two most commonly available, Sinopharm and Sinovac, have not yet received approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the United States. Sinopharm and Sinovac have received approval for emergency use by the World Health Organization (WHO). Please contact your local health authorities for more information.
• Visit the FDA's website to  learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States.

Quality of Care:  The standards of medical care in the PRC are not equivalent to those in the United States. Even in private hospitals or public hospitals with well-equipped wards, English-speaking patients frequently encounter difficulty due to cultural, language, and regulatory differences. Rural areas have rudimentary facilities and inadequate staffing. Additionally, Rh-negative blood may be difficult to obtain; the blood type of the general Asian populace is Rh positive. Payment and Insurance:  Ambulances in the PRC are often slow to arrive, and most do not have sophisticated medical equipment or trained responders. Cash payment for services is often required prior to treatment, including emergency cases. Travelers will be asked to post a deposit prior to admission to cover the expected cost of treatment. Hospitals in major cities may accept credit cards. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General in the PRC maintain lists of local  English-speaking doctors and hospitals . Use of Medicare/Medicaid in the PRC:  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Hospitals and doctors in the PRC often do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Medication:  If traveling with prescription medication, check with the  Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America  to ensure the medication is legal in the PRC. Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with the prescription. Many commonly used U.S. drugs and medications are not available in the PRC, and counterfeit, low-quality knockoffs are prevalent. If you try to have medications sent to you from outside the PRC, you may have problems getting them released by PRC Customs authorities and/or you may have to pay high customs duties. Air Quality:  Air pollution is a significant problem in many locations. Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. The PRC’s  Ministry of Ecology and Environment  also provides its own air quality data for cities throughout the PRC. Most roads and towns in Tibet, Qinghai, parts of Xinjiang, and western Sichuan are situated at altitudes over 10,000 feet. Take appropriate precautions to prepare for and be alert to altitude sickness. Disease:  The following diseases are prevalent:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Tuberculosis
• Sexually transmitted infections (e.g., syphilis)

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all routine vaccinations recommended by the CDC. The CDC traveler’s health site for the PRC provides vaccine recommendations specific to travel within the PRC.

For further health information :

• World Health Organization (WHO)
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Traffic safety is generally poor, and driving can be dangerous, though rules, regulations, and conditions vary greatly throughout the PRC.

Traffic can be chaotic and largely unregulated and the rate of accidents, including fatal accidents, is among the highest in the world. Motorcycle and bicycle accidents are frequent and often deadly. Pedestrians do not have the right of way, and you should show extreme caution when walking in traffic, even in marked crosswalks. Child safety seats are not widely available.

Traffic Laws:

• You may not drive in the PRC using a U.S. or international driver’s license.
• You can apply for a PRC driver’s license if you have a resident permit.
• If you are involved in a traffic accident, stay calm and call and wait for the police.
• If there are no injuries and damage is minimal, the parties often come to agreement on the spot.
• Unresolved disputes are handled by the courts.
• In cases involving injuries, the driver determined at fault is responsible for the injured person’s medical costs. Sometimes, the police may hold your passport until the other parties are satisfied with the compensation they receive.

Please refer to our  Road Safety page  for more information. Also, please review the Law of the People's Republic of China on Road Traffic Safety .

Public Transportation:  Public transportation, including subways, trains, and buses, generally has a positive safety record and is widely available in major cities, although individuals on crowded buses and subways can be targeted by pickpockets. Aviation Safety Oversight:   The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the PRC government’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the PRC’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s Safety Assessment Page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to the PRC should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Maritime Security Communications with Industry (MSCI) web portal. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard Homeport website , and the U.S. National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) Navigational Warnings website .

The Commandant of the Coast Guard is unable to determine if effective anti-terrorism measures are in place in PRC ports as required by 46 U.S. Code § 70108.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  China . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Chikungunya

There has been evidence of chikungunya virus transmission in China within the last 5 years. Chikungunya vaccination may be considered for the following travelers:

• People aged 65 years or older, especially those with underlying medical conditions, who may spend at least 2 weeks (cumulative time) in indoor or outdoor areas where mosquitoes are present in China, OR
• People planning to stay in China for a cumulative period of 6 months or more

Chikungunya - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to China.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to China.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are commonly found in China.

Rabies is also present in some terrestrial wildlife species.

If rabies exposures occur while in China, rabies vaccines are typically available throughout most of the country.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Tick-borne Encephalitis

For travelers moving or traveling to TBE-endemic areas

TBE vaccine is recommended for persons who will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary.

TBE vaccine may be considered for persons who might engage in outdoor activities in areas ticks are likely to be found. 

Tick-borne Encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1 Travelers with itineraries limited to Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) or Macao SAR are exempt from this requirement.

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in China, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Tap water is not drinkable in China, even in major cities. Bottled water is easily available.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in China. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in China—such as dengue and leishmaniasis—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in China include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in China. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call China’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of China. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of China may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in China, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in China, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for China .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in China, dial 999 (Beijing) or 120 (Shanghai) for an ambulance, 119 for the fire department, and 110 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you during your trip.

Learn as much as you can about China before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on China from the US Department of State.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for China for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Visa-free travel to China welcomed by people wanting to reunite with family

Jenny Zhang has plans to travel to China soon to reunite with her 100-year-old mum, and she has welcomed a move to give Australians visa-free entry for short trips.

"This is the best policy. It will provide great convenience to Chinese people living in Australia," she said.

"The Chinese community is very happy about this news."

The 15-day visa-free travel for Australians was announced by Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Monday, after a formal meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

"We agreed to provide each other with reciprocal access to five-year multiple entry visas for tourism, business and visiting family members — so as to better facilitate personal exchanges, China will also include Australia in its Visa Waiver Program," the premier said.

This change will also save Australians about $110, the current cost for a single-entry tourist visa.

The new visa-free travel scheme is due to come in within the next few months.

China's tourism industry peaked in 2019 at a value of $580 billion and has been recovering slowly, according to Statista.

They had forecast that it could take another five years to bounce back to pre-pandemic levels.

Not everyone happy with move

While Ms Zhang was thrilled with the upcoming change, Ramila Chanisheff, the president of the Australian Uyghur Tangritagh Women's Association said it would not help members of her community.

"Our family members … we can not even talk to them — let alone visit them," she told the ABC.

"Not all of us will be given visas to visit our family members. And if we do, we will be worried about our safety."

Dawa Sangmo, the Chinese liaison officer of the Tibet Information Office in Canberra raised similar worries.

"The visa-free policy is not only an issue that relates to our safety, but a matter that is more beneficial to China and its government," she told the ABC.

There was not much detail in the announcement, but Premier Li did mention it would be "reciprocal", making it easier for Chinese travellers to enter Australia.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the second highest amount of tourists visiting Australia came from China, only behind arrivals from New Zealand, as of April this year.

However, overall, the amount of people travelling out of China is down 40 per cent from pre-COVID levels in 2019, Reuters reported.

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Analysis-Chinese Outbound Travel Recovery Lags Due to Costs, Visa Snags

FILE PHOTO: Passengers look at the tarmac as they wait for their flights at the Beijing Capital International Airport, in Beijing, China April 20, 2024. REUTERS/Tingshu Wang/File Photo

By Sophie Yu, Casey Hall and Lisa Barrington

BEIJING/SHANGHAI (Reuters) - A recovery in Chinese overseas travel from the COVID-19 pandemic is fading as rising costs and difficulties in securing visas cement a preference for local and short-haul destinations.

The delay in a revival to pre-COVID levels by China's outbound travellers, the world's top spenders on international tourism and airlines, is hitting travel-related companies, hotels and retailers globally.

Eighteen months after China dropped strict zero-COVID policies and reopened its borders, the recovery in overseas travel is lagging behind market expectations and the shape of Chinese travel is changing, with a surge in domestic trips.

Pressured by a prolonged property crisis, high unemployment and a gloomy outlook in the world's second-biggest economy, Chinese consumers have become more frugal since the pandemic, prompting discount wars on everything from travel to cars, coffee and clothes.

Chinese people took 87 million trips abroad last year, down 40% from pre-COVID 2019, and industry observers say the pace has slowed since the Lunar New Year in February. China's travellers spent 24% less last year than in 2019, while U.S. travellers' spending was up 14%, according to U.N. Tourism data. The Chinese lag is bad news for countries like France, Australia and the U.S., which were among the top destinations for Chinese travellers before the pandemic.

Liu Simin, vice president of the tourism branch of the China Society for Futures Studies research institute, forecasts China's international travel might not recover to pre-pandemic levels for another five years.

"The recovery is a lot slower than expected," Liu said. "The devaluation of the Chinese yuan combined with inflation in the U.S. and Europe is a double blow."

The Chinese currency has fallen more than 2% against the dollar since the start of the year, raising costs in yuan terms for Chinese travellers abroad.

Consultancy Oliver Wyman last month pushed its estimates for China's international travel recovery to late 2025, half a year later than it forecast last year.

"I would actually argue that consumers are even more cost-conscious than last year, and you'll also see that feed into travel trends," said Imke Wouters, Hong Kong-based partner at Oliver Wyman.

To be sure, overseas travel is rebounding, with Chinese travellers again the world’s top spenders on international tourism last year after falling behind the United States in 2022, according to U.N. Tourism data.

This summer 8% of flights at Chinese airports have been international, up from just 1% in 2022, according to aviation data provider OAG.

FLIP TO DOMESTIC TRAVEL

That recovery, however, is overshadowed by the surge in domestic trips, which hit a record 295 million during the five-day May Day holiday, up more than 20% from 2019, official data showed.

Domestic airlines seats were up 16% in May from the same month in 2019, while international flights were down 30%, Cirium data shows.

Wouters at Oliver Wyman said 40% of those who travelled abroad in 2023 for the first time since borders reopened had decided not to travel internationally again this year, mainly due to inconvenience and long visa processing times for many European destinations.

Beijing resident Wang Shu, 38, vacationed domestically after cancelling a trip to France because he could not get a visa, despite trying to book a visa appointment months ahead.

"I tried booking the interview in late March, as I planned to attend the French Open tennis in late May, but the earliest date that I could book was June 19," Wang said.

Wang instead vacationed in Changsha, the capital of Hunan province, known for its spicy food.

"The food was great, I watched a concert and spent one-tenth of the money I'd have spent in France," he said.

Australia's top source of tourists before COVID, China is now number four, with arrivals down 53% in March from March 2019, said Margy Osmond, chief executive of Tourism & Transport Forum Australia.

Chinese travellers to France, the most visited country in the world, have reached only 28.5% of 2019 levels, according to airport operator ADP.

Capacity on U.S.-China routes remains down more than 80% from 2019 levels, weighed by intensifying bilateral political tensions. The U.S. National Travel and Tourism Office expects Chinese tourism to the U.S. to recover fully only in 2026.

By contrast, countries with visa-free policies have received strong growth in Chinese visitors.

These include Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, where flight capacity has also increased.

Switzerland, growing in popularity with high-end travellers on Trip.com, boasts a seven-day visa process, said Jane Sun, CEO of Trip.com Group.

Japan has also received a surge in Chinese travellers this year, boosted by a plunge in the yen's value.

"We are not just seeing a market re-growing, we are seeing a market re-shaping," Gary Bowerman, director of tourism intelligence firm Check-In Asia, told an OAG webinar last month.

(Reporting by Sophie Yu in Beijing, Casey Hall in Shanghai and Lisa Barrington in Seoul; Additional reporting by Diana Mandia in Gdansk; Editing by Miyoung Kim and William Mallard)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Beijing – Moscow Trains

Beijing – Moscow Railway is a branch of the Trans-Siberian Railway. There are two railways linking China and Russia. International trains run on these railways once a week. They are trains K3 (westbound) and K4 (eastbound) between Beijing and Moscow via Mongolia; K19 (westbound) and K20 (eastbound) directly from China to Russia via the older and longer route through Manchuria.

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Beijing – Moscow Trains: K3/K4

Trains K3/K4 connect China’s capital of Beijing to Russia’s capital of Moscow, passing through the Beijing – Baotou Railway, Trans-Mongolia Railway, and Trans-Siberian Railway. They traverse three countries China, Mongolia, and Russia, with a total distance of 7,818 kilometers, which is considered to be the longest train in Chinese railway.

Quick Facts

• Duration: 127 hours from China to Russia; 132 hours from Russia to China
• Length: 7,826 kilometers (4,863 miles)
• Train number: K3 (called 003 in Mongolia and Russia) from Beijing to Moscow; K4 (called 004 in Mongolia and Russia) from Moscow to Beijing
• Departure: every Wednesday from Beijing Railway Station at 07:27; every Tuesday from Yaroslavsky Railway Station at 23:45
• Arrival: every Monday at Yaroslavsky Railway Station at 13:58; every Monday at Beijing Railway Station at 14:35

Beijing to Moscow Train Timetable

Moscow to beijing train timetable, history of trains k3/k4.

On June 4, 1959, the trains China – Mongolia – Russia international trains K3/K4 officially started to operate. It was first operated by the Soviet Railway. Since the 1990s, with the rapid development of China-Russian relations, frequent trade between the two countries began. Businessmen became gradually became the main passengers of the train. In 2000, China Railway implemented the third nationwide speed increase, trains K3/K4 were upgraded from ordinary trains to express trains. Facilities on the trains have been changed. Since 2012, this pair of trains has offered hard sleeper and superior soft sleeper classes. The soft sleeper class has been eliminated. Since 2020, trains K3/K4 have been canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

From 1960 to 2010, this pair of trains traveled more than 42 million kilometers, with the mileage equivalent to more than 1,000 laps around the earth, and safely transported more than 1.4 million passengers from more than 100 countries.

Basic Information

When trains K3/K4 are running in China, there are 13 coaches, including 6 hard sleeper coaches, 2 superior soft sleepers, and 1 luggage coach which will be in service in the whole journey. In addition, there are 3 hard sleeper coaches and 1 dining car that are in service from Beijing to Erlian and will be removed when leaving China for Mongolia. The dining cars of this train are separately attached, a Chinese one when in China, a Mongolian one in Mongolia, and a Russian one in Russia. Besides, Mongolian and Russian sleeper coaches will be added along the way.

More information about China – Russia International Trains .

Beijing – Moscow Trains: K19/K20

Running on the famous Trans-Siberian Railway from China to Russia, trains K19/K20 are operated by Russia during the whole journey. It is the first international train between China and Russia.

• Length: 8,981 kilometers (5,581 miles)
• Train number: K19 (called 019 in Russia) from Beijing to Moscow; K20 (called 004 in Russia) from Moscow to Beijing
• Departure: every Saturday from Beijing Railway Station at 23:00; every Saturday from Yaroslavsky Railway Station at 23:45
• Arrival: every Friday at Yaroslavsky Railway Station at 14:13; every Saturday at Beijing Railway Station at 05:49
• Duration: 135 hours from China to Russia; 150 hours from Russia to China

Beijing to Moscow Train Timetable: K19

Moscow to beijing train timetable: k20.

In 1954, international trains K19/20 from Beijing to Moscow and vice versa were officially launched. It is the first international intermodal train after the founding of the People’s Republic of China. At the beginning, it ran twice a week, operated by the Soviet Railway. In 1969, due to political reasons, it ran once a week. Since 2020, trains K19/K20 has been canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The train consists of 6 coaches when running in Russia, including 4 hard sleeper coaches, 1 superior soft sleeper coach, and 1 Russian dining car. When the train is in China, 1 hard sleeper coach and 1 Chinese dining car will be added to the train.

Since the Russian railway adopts the wide gauge of 1520 mm, while the Chinese railway adopts the standard gauge of 1435 mm, the wheels need to be replaced at Zabaikalsk in Russia every time the train enters and exits. In the whole process, the whole train will be lifted by lifting equipment, the original wheels are pushed out, and then new wheels of another gauge are pushed forward. Passengers will wait at the station. Due to the need for border inspection, the train stops at Manzhouli Station for about 5 hours.

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Ultimate Guide on Travelling China by Train | China Train Travel 2024

“High-speed rail has made the journey much more convenient. I felt more relaxed and confident that I would arrive safely,” said by Bob, an expat who is living in Shanghai, and has traveled China with high speed trains for many years. Yes, the vast high speed railway system makes travelling in China more and more convenient and comfortable. But it also has brought tons of problems for western travelers who don’t know the railway system well – what do I do because I don’t speak and read Chinese? How to book train ticket and how to collect ticket offline? First Class and second class, which seat should I choose? Which trains have power plus? What to expect with the toilets on board? One may even get fearful with so many things to worry about.

Don’t worry! With our Ultimate Guide on Travelling China by Train, you will get all the right answers to you have and will have, no matter you are going to take the newest Fuxing high speed trains from Shanghai to Beijing, or take the short inter-city trains from Chengdu to Leshan Giant Buddha.

Are you ready? Great! Let’s get started.

Table of Contents

Why to travel by high speed trains, understanding china train designations.

• Facilities and Services on High Speed Trains

Which Class of Seat to Take

How to book china train tickets, how to read important information on your ticket, how to handle your luggage, what to eat and drink on high speed train, train bathrooms, arriving at destinations.

• Top 10 Most High Speed Rail Routes in China

Super Fast - China high speed trains run at speeds about 250~350km/h. The newest Fuxing trains’ speed can reach to 400km/h. You can get to Beijing from Shanghai (over 1,200km) within 5 hours.

More Punctual & Reliable - High speed trains are on time. They are affected less by variations in climate and traffic. The chances are small that your trains will be delayed and even be canceled for bad weathers factors like thunderstorm, snowstorm, low visibility, low clouds, wind shear, etc.

Comfortable - your journey on China high speed train will be very comfortable. You will seat on seats which are much better than airplanes. Some seats can even be laid flat.

Saves Money - taking a high speed train in many cases are cheaper than flight and driving especially for short-distance rides, such as Beijing Tianjin, Shanghai Hangzhou, Chengdu Xian. Besides, the prices for high speed train tickets don’t fluctuate like flights do.

Handy Facilities & Functions - Most daily used equipment, facilities and items are provided at conspicuous areas on the train – western toilets, dinning car, water, power plugs, even Wi-Fi(on some G-series trains) …

Unique Experience with Landscape Outside - Down on the land by high speed train, you will see the real China IN STYLE, up close and personal from the super large train windows.

Keep Reading: - Top 10 Advantages of Travelling by High Speed Train in China

A High Speed Train is running through Beijing

Business Class Seats on High Speed Train

Generally speaking, China trains are divided into two kinds: High Speed Trains and Normal Trains with different speeds, facilities and names.

China’s High Speed Trains (“G”, “D” and “C”)

There are three kinds of High Speed Trains in China, differed by the letters G/D/C plus several digits. They usually look like bullets (so the China High Speed Trains are also known as China Bullet Trains), and are all fast, clean and well equipped with friendly facilities.

G-series High Speed Trains - the Fastest & Most Advanced Trains in China

G-series trains (Pinyin: Gaotie, 高铁) are the fastest trains among all the high speed trains in China which usually run with a speed of 250-400km/h. Currently, there are more than 500 railway stations in China’s major cities (about 113 cities) linked to the China’s massive railway network by G-series high speed trains. Compared with D and C trains, the G-series trains take less time to reach final destination as they stop at fewer stations on route. Air-conditioner, dining car, western-style toilet, large luggage racks, power plugs, and visual systems are generally equipped on the G-series trains. Fuxing Trains, the newest generation of China’s G-series high speed train, run faster, and provide more comfortable seats and lager space. Wi-Fi is also available. Learn more about China G-series Trains.

D-series High Speed Train - Electric Multiple Units (EMU) & Second Fastest High Speed Train in China

D-series trains, (Dongche, 动车), are the second fastest high speed trains in China, usually running at a speed between 200km/h and 250 km/h. They are the earlier generation of China Railway High-speed (CRH). The D-series trains can not only large cities, like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Wuhan, Chongqing, Hangzhou, Suzhou, also can get to smaller cities in China, such as Luoyang, Pingyao, Guilin, even some very small towns along the railways. Only D-series operate overnight high speed trains in China. The facilities in the D-series are much like that of G-series trains. Learn more about China D-series Trains.

C-series High Speed Trains - High Speed Trains Running between Two Neighboring Cities

C-series trains (C stands for Chengji城际, English: Intercity) usually connect provincial cities, like Chengdu-Leshan, Leshan – Emeishan, or two neighboring cities, like Beijing – Tianjin, Guangzhou – Shenzhen, etc. They usually run at speeds below 200km/h. Till May, 2018, there are over 260 railway stations with C trains running through. Learn more about China C-series Trains.

China’s Normal Trains

Usually colored blue, red or green, they are identified by Z/T/K/L/Y/S plus digits or just several digits without letters. They run at a lower speed than high speed types, but they run day and night. The facilities are generally of a lower standard, e.g. the toilets are mostly squatting ones. With relatively lower prices, they are often the choice of budget travelers.

Standard trains are the older version of China’s rail system and rarely exceed 140 km/hr. Although less common than they used to be before the high speed train came into existence, you’ll still find these standard trains going to smaller cities or throughout less-developed regions of China.

Usually, these trains are divided into “Soft Sleeper”, “Hard Sleeper”, “Hard Seat” and sometimes a “Soft Seat”. They don’t always have a western toilet or air conditioning, but they are cheaper.

China’s Normal Trains are identified by letters Z/T/K/L/Y/S plus several digits (such as K145, Z23, T660…). They are usually in green colors with more carriages, and run at speeds below 160km/h. Before the operation of High Speed Trains, the Normal Trains aver very common in China. Now the number of the Normal Trains is declining, but there are still a lot of trains of this type under operation, especially on railway to small cities and towns. There are three kinds of seats available on the Normal Trains – Hard Seats, Hard Sleepers and Soft Sleepers. Compared with High Speed Trains, they are much cheaper, but not very comfortable, and cost more time. Western toilets are not available. Air-conditioners are only equipped on some trains. Learn more about China Normal Trains.

Fuxing China High Speed Train - the newest generation

A Normal Train on Qinghai Tibet Railway

Facilities and Services in China’s High Speed Trains

Air-conditioner: all China high speed trains are fully air-conditioned. The train is totally sealed so smoking is prohibited even in the toilets.

Luggage Racks: there are luggage racks above the seats in the carriages of First Class and Second Class for you to put smaller and normal-size luggages. You can also put your larger luggages (28 inch suitcase) in the closets at the end of each carriage.

Train Bathrooms: there are both western-style toilets and squat toilets on the high speed trains. There is also a special toilet for the disable and moms with infants. Tissue papers are provided in the bathrooms, but you’d better bring some on your own as they may run out fast. Hand sanitizer and soaps are only provided on some trains.

Food and Drinks: every China high speed train has a dining car, usually the No. 5 carriage, where you can buy packed Chinese meals of different standards (15￥to 65￥). The attendants will also bring some foods and snacks to each carriage to sell. Free drinkable water can be fetched at the water dispensers at the junctions of two carriages. There are also some beverages for sale on the train.

Technologies facilities: A 220V power plugs can be found below the front seats but you have to bring one adapter. Every carriage has several TV screens, but only Chinese videos are available. Wi-Fi is available on the newest Fuxing trains.

Keep Reading: Check more facilities on China high speed trains >

Modern and clean carriage on high speed train

Footrest and power plug on the Second Class Seat

Second Class Seats, First Class Seats, Business Class Seats are three common seats you can find on most China high speed trains. There are a few trains which have only Second Class Seats, or Second Class Seats plus First Class Seats. These trains usually serve short-distance railway routes. Some overnight high speed trains also provide Soft Sleepers. The difference between these seats has to do with the size of the seat as well as the personal space allowed.

Second Class Seats

The Second Class Seats, the cheapest seats on China high speed trains, are usually arranged in the carriages from 2 to 8, so generally speaking, more than 90% of the seats on the high speed trains are the Second Class Seats. The carriage of the Second Class Seats has two seats on the side of the aisle and three on the other. The seats are relatively comfortable with a width of about 43cm (17inch), and can slant 5~24°. The leg room is enough, and feels more like economy class on the airplane. A 220V power plugs can be found below the front seats but you have to bring one adapter. Read more about Second Class Seats

Frist Class Seats

The First Class Seats, a little more expensive than the Second Class Seats, are usually located on the first carriage, together with the Business Class Seats. There are usually 28 seats, usually 4 seats in a row on two sides of the aisle. The seats are wider and can slant 5~32°. Each seat has a tray table (folded in the armrest), a headphone jack (below armrest), and a footrest. Power charge is available. Compared with the Second Class Seats, the First Class Seats are more spacious and quieter. Read more about First Class Seats

Business Class Seats

Beyond the First Class and Second Class Seats are the Business Class Seats which are much luxury and comfortable, made of leather and fully-reclining, just like the business class on the airplane. They are great treats for those who want to enjoy a relaxing journey on a long train journey in China. They are usually 5 egg-like multifunctional seats in a private room behind the cab (before the First Class Seats Carriage), can be slanted 180° down to sleep on. You can also rotate your seat to face the window and enjoy the landscape along the railway. Snacks, drinks and food (meal time only) are provided for free. The fare is the highest- about twice that of first class, sometimes even higher than flight fare. Read more about Business Class Seats

Some D-series China high speed trains also provide sleepers of different types for overnight travelers. These high speed trains usually run long-distance railway routes, such as Beijing – Shanghai, Shanghai – Xian, Beijing – Guangzhou, Beijing – Shenzhen, Shanghai – Chengdu, etc. At present, there are mainly three various types of sleeper on the high speed trains – New Individual Sleepers (Dong Wo动卧), Soft Sleepers Compartment (Ruan Wo软卧), Deluxe Soft Sleeper Compartment (Gao Ji Ruan Wo高级动卧).

First Class Seat on high speed train

Second Class Seat on high speed train

Currently, you can only book China train tickets 15 days in advance. You can book on China Railway’s official website or some online travel agencies, or go to purchase tickets at any of China’s railway station. Passport is always required no matter you book online or at railway stations.

Book Train Ticket Online

English version of its ticketing website - https://www.12306.cn/en/index.html, allows foreign passengers who don't understand Chinese to register and purchase train tickets themselves. It is important to note that currently, the English version only supports the registration of valid foreign passports. When registering an account and adding passengers, the English version only requires an email address and does not require a Chinese phone number. The website supports multiple payment methods such as VISA, MasterCard, JCB, and Diners, etc.

Book Train Ticket at Railway Stations

If you are already in China, you can go to any railway station close to you to book tickets at the ticket hall. Original passport and cash are required. You can also try to find the small ticket offices located on some major streets in big cities to book tickets if the railway station is too far from you. A booking fee of 5￥is required. These ticket offices only open between 9am~6pm.

Let Your Hotel Book for You

If you are staying in a luxury hotel in China, such as JW Marriott, Mandarin Oriental, InterContinental, St. Regis, The Ritz-Carlton, you can ask your hotel to book train tickets and have them billed to your room.

Book a China tour including train ticket with China Discovery

We, China Discovery, have designed many valuable China tours which take you to explore the most beautiful destinations in China by high speed trains, such as Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Guilin, Chengdu, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Huangshan, etc. You can book a tour with us to get rid of all the daunting booking processes, and focus only on enjoying your vacation.

Keep Reading: How to Book China Train Tickets

How to Collect Your Tickets

Passengers need a paper ticket to board train in China. There is no E-ticket currently. If you book ticket at railway station, you can collect your ticket immediately. If you book ticket online, you can collect ticket at the ticket counters in any railway station in China any time, for example booking a train ticket of Shanghai to Chengdu in your home country, collecting ticket at a counter in Beijing Railway Station. You need to present your original passport and a Ticket Pickup Number (you will get the Number after booking ticket successfully online. It is like E123456789/EA12345678…) to the staffs in the ticket office. If you collect ticket on the same day of departure, you’d better get to station at least 1~1.5 hours in advance so that you have enough time to collect ticket and check in station.

If you book ticket with 3rd party agencies, like Trip.com, you can use the ticket delivery service to save time. If you travel with China Discovery, we can book ticket and deliver to you, or let your local tour guide collect ticket for you.

Keep Reading: How to collect your train tickets online, at train station, automatic ticket machine and outlets.

Book train ticket at railway station

Book train ticket on 12306.cn

After getting your ticket, you can get a lot of important information on the small paper.

Boarding Gate (right of the 1st line): on the top right corner shows your boarding gate. For example A21/B21检票 says you should go to check in your train at the gate of A21 or B21.

Shown on the top right corner of your ticket, boarding gate is the exact place for you to board after get into the train station. Not every ticket has the boarding gate information (though Most of them have). If there is no gate information, you should check that at the big LED Screen as soon as you ended the security check when enter the station.

Departure and arrival railway stations (the 2nd and 3rd lines): they are written in Chinese characters, like “成都东” indicating “Chengdu East Railway Station”, “西安北” indicating “Xian North Railway Station”. Below the Chinese characters are their Chinese pronunciations in pinyin, not English name.

Train type and number: the train numbers usually start with G, D or C. For example D1920 is a D-series high speed train; G stands for G-series high speed trains and C stands for C-series high speed trains.

Departure date hour(left of the 4th line): for example 2018年5月17日 09：19开 means the departure date and hour is 09:19AM, May 17, 2018.

Carriage Number / Seat Number / Seat Class (right of the 4th line): right after the Departure date and hour is your carriage number and seat number. For example 1车4F says your seat is 4F (4th row) in the No. 1 carriage. Below the carriage and seat numbers is your seat class. For example 一等座(First Class Seat), 二等座(Second Class Seat), 商务座(Business Class Seat).

Ticket price (5th line): the price of your ticket can be found at the 5th line. It’s in CNY only. For example ￥397.0元 says your ticket cost 397 CNY.

Your identity info (7th line): the left of this line is your passport number. The last two letters (or digits) are hidden by mosaics.

Please note there are two kinds of paper tickets – Blue Ticket and Red Ticket. The only difference between these two kinds of tickets is that the Red Ticket can only be checked by manually while the Blue Ticket can be checked by the automatic entry.

The most common Blue Ticket

Check boarding gate from your ticket

China’s railway stations, especially those newly built high speed railway stations, are usually very large. Some stations, Beijing South Railway Station, Chongqing West Railway Station, Chengdu East Railway Station, are even larger than some major international airports. But don’t get intimidated by their massive labyrinths of halls, doors, floors and waiting areas. In fact, the process for boarding and disembarking from a railway station in China is much simpler and easier than that of a plane. Usually, the larger railway stations are all user-friendly, and have signs in English for you. Below are the basic steps to board your train at a China railway station:

1) Get your passport prepared. Travelers from Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan need to carry your valid Mainland Travel Permit.

2) Get to the Right Train Station in Advance: please note that there are usually more than one train stations in one city, even 3 and more in some big cities, like Beijing (Beijing South, Beijing West, Beijing North…) , Chengdu (Chengdu, Chengdu South, Chengdu East…). So please navigate the right station before your trip. Besides, remember to leave early to catch your train because there are traffic jams on the roads to the railway stations. Usually you should arrive at your railway station at least 30 minutes in advance. Most railway stations in big cities can be reached by subway, taxi and public bus.

3) Collect your tickets at railway stations. If your ticket was booked online, you can collect ticket at the ticket hall which is usually outside the main entrance to the station.

4) Present your ticket and passport: As you enter the main station, you will find some lines where you’ll stand in to pass ticket check. Present both your ticket and passport to the agent who will checks whether your identities on ticket and passport match exactly.

5) Security Check & Luggage Check: this process is very fast, and can be finished in 1~2 minutes. Just place your luggage and bags on the inspection equipment, and go through the safety-check. Don’t have to take off your shoes, coats and belt. Then a security guard will use a metal detector to pat down your body to check you don’t have any dangerous items brought.

6) Find the Right Waiting Room: check your waiting hall (gate) on the right up corner of your ticket, or from the big LED screen in the railway station. Find a seat and waiting for check in.

7) Board your train: usually about 15~20 minutes before the departure, the check-in door will open. You can leave your seat to let the stewards check your ticket, then walk a few steps to find your train. Enjoy your ride!

Keep Reading: How to Get On/Off the High Speed Train in China

Pass the Identity Check

Find Your Correct Boarding Gate

Travelling with luggages on China train is not a problem. If you take high speed trains, it will be easier to handle your luggage because there are plenty of spaces to place your luggage, and there are also many ways to deliver your luggages.

Baggage Allowance Policy

According to the China Rail Safety Management Regulations, passengers who have already bought tickets are allowed to bring certain amount and volume of luggages to board China trains for free. Each adult passenger can bring 20kg (44pounds) luggage. Each child (having a ticket) can bring luggage of less than 10kg (22pounds). The total sum of the length, widths and height of each luggage can’t exceed 160cm (63inches). The length of the rod-shaped baggage can’t exceed 200cn (79inches). But in fact, these official rules are usually not enforced. Generally speaking, if your luggage can be carried with you on person, and fits through the scanning machine, it will be permitted. But don’t too bring extremely large or long staffs which may be denied. Also never pack the prohibited items with you, such as Weapons, knives, live animals, etc.

Where to Put Your Luggage

After you get on the train, find the luggage rack to put your luggage. If you take high speed train, you can put the large-size suite cases in the luggage cabinets at the junction of two carriages or the empty room behind the last row of seats in your carriage. Carry-on suitcases or smaller luggage can be placed on the luggage racks above your seats. In general, there are more spaces in carriages of First Class, Business Class and Soft Sleeper to store luggage than that of in the Second Class Carriages. If you take a normal train, you can only put your luggages on the racks above seats, or under your seat.

If your luggage is very large or heavy, you can consign it at the railway station. If you have too many luggages to bring, you can also hire a Red-cap porter in the station to carriage luggage for you.

Keep Reading: China Train Baggage Allowance & Luggage Racks

Luggage racks above seats in 2nd Class Seats

Luggage cabinets at the junction of two carriages

Foods, snacks and drinks are provided on the high speed trains. But if you are a westerner, and not a Chinese food lover, the meals may not suit your palates well. You can have lunch before taking your train in your hotel or local restaurants if your train departs in the afternoon. You can also pack some foods with you if you are going to have long train ride. Large stations usually have. You can find something to eat at KFC, MacDonald and some food stalls in the railway stations.

Dinning Car

The dining car is usually on the 5th carriage. It is usually a small kitchen with a counter. Some dining cars have table and seats, and some don’t. There are several Chinese boxed-meals on the menu with prices from 15~65￥, and only served during meals hours. Western food is not provided. Some packed snacks sell at the counter, such as chips & cookies, breads, nuts, dried fruit and so on. Instant noodles are not provided on high speed trains. Breakfasts are usually breads, milk, porridge, eggs, baozi, etc. The types of foods and snacks usually differ by rail routes.

If you take a seat in the Business Class or First Class, you can order food from the attendant in your carriage. Meals and drinks are free if your seat is business class. Sometimes the attendants will also push a trolley to sell food, snacks and drinks.

The dining car offer some common drinks, such as cola, juice and water of bottles. Hot water can be fetched at the dispenser at the end of your carriage.

Keep Reading: All the food, drinks, snacks on China high speed train

Dining Car on the high speed train

Chinese boxed-meal (65￥ standard)

Both Western and Square Toilets Are Available

There are both western-style toilets and squat toilets on the high speed trains. The number and locations may differ by the type of trains. They are usually modern and clean. The attendants clean the toilets frequently. Toilet paper is provided in the bathroom, but easily run out. You can bring some on your own. Smoking is not allowed in the toilets. When the train stops at stations, the toilet doors will close. You can check toilet availability from the signs on the doors of toilets – the red sign with “有人” means the toilet is occupied, and the green sign “无人” means it’s not occupied. The LED screen above the aisle also shows if the toilet in your carriage is occupied or not.

Barrier-free Toilet for the Disable and Infants

There is a barrier-free toilet on most high speed train in China, usually in No. 5 carriage. It’s specially design for the disable passengers. There is a small stage inside the toilet where moms can change diapers for infants. The toilet has a large auto-door with both English and Chinese sighs on. The space inside the toilet room is rather large with a western style toilet, a large wash basin, hand rails, mirrors. Toilet paper is provided.

Keep Reading: Toilets & Washrooms on China High Speed Trains

Western style toilet on high speed train

Toliet paper is provided but you can bring some on your own

The high speed trains in China usually arrive at the final destination on time to minutes. Don’t have to leave your seat in a hurry to push and squeeze in the crowds to exit. The attendants won’t urge to leave the train in minutes. Sit two or three more minutes to check all your belongings packed well, and then get off the train.

Check out railway stations in China is very easy. The pass out the station is usually not long, and has no many sideways. Just follow the stream of people. Before exiting the railway station, you have to check out with your ticket. Passport is not required this time. If you ticket is blue one, go through the auto-gate. If your ticket is the red one, go through manual service gate.

Currently, most of railways stations are connect to downtown with subways, such as Beijing South, Chengdu East, Chongqing North, Shanghai Hongqiao, Hangzhou East, Xian North, etc. You can easily take a subway in the station to get to central city area easily. Some railway stations even have an area inside the station for passengers to take taxi to destinations.

High speed trains stop at Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station

Exit in Chengdu East Railway Station

Other Routes to Experience D High Speed Trains

As high speed train travel are becoming much popular and recommended by large portion of visitors in China, here we also list some top high speed train routes chosen by most people during their China tour. See the routes at below and pick one to experience the great advantages of travelling by high speed train. Also, you could check all high speed train routes to select which section to experience.

Best China High Speed Train Tour Packages for

There is no better way to see, experience, and immerse yourself in China’s exciting China's massive high speed railway system. Fast speeds, cozy seats and sleepers, big and clean sightseeing windows, easy and simple boarding process, beautiful sceneries along the railway... there are so many reasons for you to have a train tour in China. Currently most of the iconic destinations in China can be traveled by high speed trains, including the capital city Beijing, historical Xian, vibrant Shanghai, beautiful Guilin, panda city Chengdu, romantic Hangzhou, stunning Yellow Mountain, etc. Hurry up to plan a trip now or choose one well-designed China train tour package from our selections to start your amazing holiday!

Beijing / Xian

Xian / Chengdu

Shanghai / Suzhou / Hangzhou / Huangshan

Shanghai / Tongli / Suzhou / Beijing

Shanghai / Hangzhou / Wuzhen / Suzhou / Shanghai

Beijing / Luoyang / Xian / Shanghai

Beijing / Xian / Chengdu / Chongqing / Yangtze Cruise / Yichang / Shanghai

Hong Kong / Guangzhou / Guilin

Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once inquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

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• Introduction
• Holidays in Russia
• Russian Train Types and Seat Classes
• Train Travel Tips
• Tips for Taking a Train in Russia
• Things You Need to Know Before Taking a Trans-Siberian Train
• How to Take a Trans-Siberian Train Trip
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• Railway Stations in Moscow
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Trains Between China and Russia

Train Ticket Booking

• China Trains
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The international railway line between China and Russia is part of the great Trans-Siberian Railway network.

There are two trains running between China and Russia: one follows the Trans-Mongolian Railway traveling between Moscow and Beijing and crossing Mongolia; the other one goes through Manchuria, connecting Russia and China.

Russia/China Train Schedules

* indicates border stations.

Trans-Mongolian Line

(Updated on February 27th, 2020)

Train station with a “*” means immigration inspection needed.

Trans-Manchurian Line

What’s the Difference Between Trains 003/004 and 19/20?

Highlights along the trans-siberian railway.

Before and after your train journey, it’s worth spending 3 or 4 days in Beijing — China’s capital and second largest city.

In China’s history, Beijing served as the capital city during several dynasties.

The Great Wall

Listed below are the attractions you mustn’t miss:

• The Great Wall, the must-see attraction when traveling to Beijing, has a history of more than 2,000 years. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Now it has become the symbol of China.
• The Forbidden City is another must-see attraction. Located in central Beijing, the Forbidden City was the former imperial palace used during the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368–1912). It has retained abundant amounts of ancient architecture and cultural relics during its long history.
• Hutongs are old lanes and narrow streets in Beijing. Some of the local residents still live in the hutongs and this area is the perfect place to experience the local Beijing culture and lifestyle.

Mongolian Steppes and Ger Camp

Mongolia is known for its sea of rolling steppes, the Gobi Desert, and the nomadic culture. You can travel around Ulaanbaatar, the largest city and capital of this country.

If you have enough time , you can spend a night in a Mongolian ger camp, or try something more adventurous, such as camel riding across the Gobi Desert.

Lake Baikal

Located in Siberia, the ancient Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world . It is known as the “Pearl of Siberia” and is definitely worth a visit.

You can go boating on the lake, take a railway trip around the lake, visit lovely villages nearby, and even enjoy ice-skating in winter. People marvel at its natural beauty all year round.

The Trans-Siberian train will take a day traveling around Lake Baikal. If you want to explore the beauty of Lake Baikal for a few days, you can get off at Irkutsk and take a bus to the nearest town, which is an hour’s drive.

Irkutsk is one of the most popular stops along the Trans-Siberian Railway.

Located 66 kilometers south of the magnificent Lake Baikal, Irkutsk is the second largest city in Eastern Siberia, with the easiest access to Lake Baikal.

The Angara River runs through the city. A number of historical sites line its banks, including ancient churches and museums.

Moscow is Russia’s capital and largest city. It’s also the country’s political, economic, cultural, and financial center.

It is worth spending 4 to 5 days in Moscow to discover its history and culture. There are many places in Moscow that you mustn’t miss.

• The Kremlin is situated in central Moscow and is adjacent to Red Square. It is one of the largest architectural complexes in the world, housing a huge number of precious cultural relics.
• Red Square , located beside the Kremlin, is the oldest square in Moscow and one of the most well-known squares in the world. It is not only the place for major holiday activities but is also a witness of Russia’s history.
• Saint Basil's Cathedral is in Red Square. It is renowned for its onion-shaped domes in different colors and for its long history.

Tips for Taking the Trans-Siberian Trains

First class compartments have two berths and second class compartments have four berths. That means you might be sharing a compartment with strangers.

If you are not comfortable with this, you can book the whole compartment. However, some people think that this is a good opportunity to mingle with fellow passengers.

Food is available throughout the journey as there is a restaurant car providing meals and drinks. However, the choice of food on board is limited and the prices are high. Therefore, it is advisable to take some food with you.

You can supplement your food supply when the train stops at the stations as there are always local people selling snacks and drinks on the platforms.

• Free boiling water is available in each car. Take a bottle with you and maybe some instant food that just requires the addition of hot water.

There are a few European standard power sockets in each second class car. Each first class compartment has one power socket. Be aware that you might be unable to charge your laptop adequately due to the unstable voltage. Remember to take a converter with you.

• Toilets and washbasins are available at the end of each car. Toilet paper is offered but runs out very quickly so be sure to take your own toilet paper with you.
• The train timetable is based on the capital’s time . When the train runs in China, the train schedule matches the time in Beijing but the time in Moscow is shown on the train schedule when it runs in Russia.

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Mongolian local passenger trains mainly follow the Trans-Mongolia Line, but stop at more stations.

Mongolia is a Buddhist country, thus many of its traditional holidays derive from religious culture.

International train tickets for the Trans-Siberian can be bought in China, Mongolia and Russia.

About Train Spread

If you are seeking a convenient and affordable way to travel around Asia, while enjoying local landscapes and life along the way, traveling by train is a good idea. The difficulty lies in finding out where to buy tickets and how to do train travel in Asia. That’s where Train Spread comes in.

Pandas will head to San Diego after a ‘farewell ceremony’ in China

T he long-awaited return of giant pandas to the San Diego Zoo appears imminent after Chinese officials held a formal farewell ceremony for Yun Chuan and Xin Bao on Wednesday.

Exact travel details have not been released, but the pandas are expected to board a flight for California “soon after the farewell ceremony,” the zoo said.

After they arrive in San Diego, the duo will be quarantined and off public viewing for several weeks, officials said.

They will be the first pandas to enter the U.S. in 21 years, the zoo said.

Leaders of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria went to China this week to participate in the ceremony, which was held at the China Conservation & Research Center for Giant Pandas in the Sichuan province.

U.S. and Chinese dignitaries also attended the event, which included cultural performances, video salutations from students and a gift exchange by conservation partners, the zoo said.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Yun Chuan and Xin Bao to the San Diego Zoo,” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance President and CEO Paul Baribault said in a statement. “This farewell celebrates their journey and underscores a collaboration between the United States and China on vital conservation efforts.”

He said the zoo’s lengthy partnership with Chinese wildlife officials has advanced panda conservation and “we look forward to continuing our work together to ensure the survival and thriving of this iconic species.”

According to the mayor’s office, Gloria left Los Angeles for China early Tuesday. While in China, the mayor planned to attend meetings in Beijing with senior officials at the National Forestry and Grassland Administration. He is expected to return Sunday morning.

The zoo will cover the cost of the mayor’s trip, a mayoral spokesperson said.

The pandas are coming to San Diego under a conservation agreement signed in February. The zoo has been making preparations for months in anticipation of the pandas’ arrival.

The hope is the panda pair eventually produce a cub or two. The male, Yun Chuan, is the son of Zhen Zhen, a female panda born at the San Diego Zoo in 2007. Xin Bao, the female, was born at the Wolong Shenshuping Panda Base.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service issued an import permit to the zoo June 6. The agency regulates the movement of animals protected under the Endangered Species Act.

In its permit application, the zoo broadly outlined its proposed conservation research, which seeks to help captive pandas as well as those in the wild.

The zoo said it remodeled the original panda habitat to provide “a larger footprint” than what was previously available. Workers also renovated a second, adjacent enclosure for panda use. The zoo said it has the capacity to house up to four animals.

Pandas first came to the San Diego Zoo in 1987 under an exhibition loan. They returned in 1996 under a conservation agreement focused on improving panda reproduction. The zoo’s program resulted in six cubs. Its scientists also helped develop techniques credited with keeping young pandas alive, including developing panda milk formula.

The zoo bade farewell to its pandas in 2019.

China owns and leases all giant pandas in U.S. zoos and for decades has lent out the animals as a sign of friendship or to strengthen national ties, a practice known as “panda diplomacy.”

After the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., sent back its three pandas in November, the only pandas remaining in the U.S. were at Zoo Atlanta in Georgia.

Hopes for a new panda loan took shape late last year after Chinese President Xi Jinping told San Francisco business leaders in November that California would get pandas in 2024 — and mentioned San Diego by name.

Chinese wildlife officials have since signed panda-loan agreements with the National Zoo and the San Francisco Zoo.

San Diego will pay $1 million a year for the pandas, with the money earmarked to support Chinese panda conservation efforts.

©2024 The San Diego Union-Tribune. Visit sandiegouniontribune.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

The global spike in luxury handbags, shoes, and clothing sales could be coming to an end due in part to China's 'luxury shaming,' study finds

• Global luxury goods sales growth will slow in 2024, per a new Bain & Company report. 
• The report cited China's economic uncertainties and rising outbound tourism as key factors.
• "Luxury shaming" and price hikes without innovation could also contribute to sluggish sales growth.

The spike in the global sales of luxury goods could be coming to an end in 2024, and "luxury shaming" could be in part to blame.

A report published on June 18 by Bain & Company forecast that worldwide sales of personal luxury goods — which include high-end clothing, shoes, handbags, and beauty products — would grow at the slowest rate since 2020, when sales plummeted due to pandemic-related factors.

Related stories

If Bain's forecast pans out, it could be due in part to a slowdown in China. The report cited two factors in particular that are holding back sales in the Chinese market: "the revival of outbound tourism" and "weakening local demand caused by rising economic uncertainties."

As pandemic conditions have eased, more wealthy Chinese citizens have begun traveling internationally — allocating money to travel that they might otherwise have spent on luxury goods.

Additionally, economic uncertainty in China has brought about a phenomenon called "luxury shame" or "luxury shaming." With some Chinese citizens experiencing financial challenges , some higher-income people have been hesitant to flaunt their wealth with luxury goods. Bain said this phenomenon played out in the US during the Great Recession — and has impacted sales in China.

Bain partner Claudia D'Arpizio told The Associated Press that in addition to macroeconomic factors, luxury goods companies may also be to blame for the slowdown in sales.

She said some luxury goods companies have raised prices but not justified these hikes with sufficient innovation, leaving some consumers "upset and puzzled."

Watch: Why the retail industry has its eye on Gen Z

• Main content

Ukraine-Russia war latest: US warns North Korea against sending troops to Ukraine - as NATO appoints new chief

NATO has appointed a new secretary general - while the US has warned North Korea against sending troops to fight in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Evan Gershkovich has been seen before the start of his behind-closed-doors trial in Russia.

Wednesday 26 June 2024 20:05, UK

• David Cameron discusses Trump and Ukraine in hoax call recording released by Russian pranksters
• NATO appoints new chief
• US warns North Korea against sending troops to Ukraine
• US journalist seen ahead of trial in Russia
• Your questions answered : Has Western media been honest about Ukrainian military failures?
• Big picture : What you need to know this week
• Listen to the Daily above and tap here to follow wherever you get your podcasts

Ask a question or make a comment

That brings an end to our live updates on the conflict in Ukraine for this evening.

We'll bring you any major updates overnight. In the meantime, you can scroll through the blog below to catch up on the day's developments.

Vladimir Putin today held a phone call with the interim president of Iran, Mohammad Mokhber, the Kremlin has said.

The Russian president and Mokhber discussed "mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation in all key areas", including energy and "large-scale infrastructure projects".

Russian energy giant Gazprom announced earlier today the signing of a memorandum with the National Iranian Gas Company (NIGC) to supply Russian pipeline gas to Iran.

As many football fans will be aware, the Ukrainian men's national team have been playing against Belgium in a crucial match in the European Championship in Germany.

Soldiers in the Donetsk region have been taking a break from the conflict there to watch the match in Stuttgart - where Belgium supporters rose to applaud as the Ukrainian national anthem was played before kick off.

Ukraine must win the game or hope there is a winner in the match being played simultaneously between Romania and Slovakia (or a win for Slovakia if Ukraine lose) if they are to qualify for the knock-out stages of the tournament.

The United Nations Security Council has condemned a deadly attack that targeted churches and synagogues in Dagestan.

Twenty people were killed, most of them police officers, during the attack on Sunday.

Five gunmen were also killed, while at least 46 people were taken to hospital with injuries in the predominantly Muslim region.

The statement from the UN Security Council said: "The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the heinous and cowardly terrorist."

Russian pranksters have released footage of David Cameron being tricked into thinking he was speaking to a former Ukrainian president.

The Foreign Office (FCDO) announced at the start of June that a "number of text messages were exchanged followed by a brief video call" between Lord Cameron and someone who claimed to be Petro Poroshenko.

In the casual video call published by website Guido Fawkes, Lord Cameron discusses Labour, Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine with someone purporting to be Petro Poroshenko.

Mr Poroshenko was Ukrainian president between 2014 and 2019, and has remained a prominent figure in the country since leaving office.

Earlier this month, the UK Government made the hoax call public knowledge to stave off any attempts to manipulate video footage of the former prime minister from the communications.

Asked by the imposter if he believes anything will change after the general election, Lord Cameron says Labour has been "as enthusiastic" in their support for Ukraine as the Conservatives.

He said: "I don't think you'll see change. Obviously if they win it will be a new government, there will be some getting up to speed on some issues, but I think fundamentally they've supported everything we've done.

"I think the Labour Party, if they win, will continue that approach."

Asked about his engagement with former US president and current presidential candidate Mr Trump, Lord Cameron says the Republican would want to "back the winning side" in Ukraine but his attitude is "hard to predict".

He says: "I had dinner with (Trump) and my aim was to convince him not to block money for Ukraine, because obviously the speaker, Mike Johnson, wanted two things: he wanted to vote the money for Ukraine but he also wanted to keep his job, and I thought it was important to try to make sure that Trump backed him sufficiently to do that, which is what happened in the end."

He adds: "I think ultimately (Trump) will calculate at the time what's right for him.

"I think the key thing is if we can make sure that Ukraine is on the front foot and Putin is on the back foot by November, then he will want to support the winning side, as it were, and that's what we've got to ensure.

"It's hard to predict exactly what his attitude will be but that's the most important thing."

Elsewhere in the video, the imposter can be heard saying that not sending Ukraine an invitation to Nato is a "bad signal".

In response, Lord Cameron says: "There's not going to be an invitation because America won't support one.

"So what I've said to the president, (Volodymyr) Zelenskyy, is: let's try and get the best language we can about Nato support for Ukraine. But don't, let's not, we mustn't have an argument between Nato and Ukraine before the summit."

Later in the video, Lord Cameron discloses a conversation he had with Kazakhstan's foreign secretary Murat Nurtleu during a visit to the country earlier this year.

Lord Cameron says: "Kazakhstan are convinced that Putin wants a slice of the north of Kazakhstan.

"(Nurtleu) said Ukrainians are dying for Kazakhstan, they are putting their lives at risk to hold back  Russia  and that benefits us."

At the end of the call, the imposter says: "Thank you, my friend. It was nice to see you again, and I remember our first meeting with Lord Hague and Bernard and Lily Vie."

The FCDO said it had released details of the exchange publicly over dears it could be "manipulated".

The call was carried out by Russian pranksters who use the aliases "Vovan and Lexus" and appears to have lasted around 15 minutes.

The duo are well-known in Russia and have claimed to have duped a string of politicians and celebrities in the past including Sir Elton John, US statesman John McCain, Prince Harry and JK Rowling.

The Foreign Office said today that the call looked like a Russian information operation designed to distract attention from Moscow's war in Ukraine.

A spokesperson for Britain's Foreign Office said in a statement: "We made public the fact that this call happened weeks ago, to do the right thing and make sure others were warned of the risk at the earliest opportunity. 

"The Foreign Secretary understood this was a private call with a Ukrainian politician.

"This is clearly Russian, and is standard practice for information operations. Disinformation is a tactic straight from the Kremlin playbook to try to distract from their illegal activities in Ukraine and the human rights abuses being committed there."

It did not answer a question about the video's authenticity, which Sky News has not independently verified.

The US is reportedly moving towards lifting a ban on American military contractors deploying to Ukraine, according to a group of US officials familiar with the matter.

The US is said to be looking for ways to speed up the maintenance and repairs of Ukraine's weapons systems.

The equipment that has sustained significant damage in combat currently has to be transported out of the country to Poland, Romania, or other NATO countries for repairs, which takes time.

US troops are also available to help with maintenance and logistics, though this is only from afar via video chat or secure phone.

One advanced system that officials say will likely require regular maintenance is the F-16 fighter jet, which Ukraine is set to receive later this year.

The policy is still being drafted by US officials and has not yet received final sign-off from President Joe Biden, officials said.

"We have not made any decisions and any discussion of this is premature," one administration official told CNN.

"The president is absolutely firm that he will not be sending US troops to Ukraine."

The White House has been determined since the war began in 2022 to limit both the danger to Americans and the perception that the US military is engaged in combat there.

The US state department has also warned Americans against travelling to Ukraine since 2022.

European Union countries are looking to set up a new sanctions regime to counter hybrid attacks, draft European Council conclusions showed today.

EU leaders will meet tomorrow and Friday to discuss critical issues including the war in Ukraine, the Middle East, security and defence and recent political events in Georgia.

Discussing a new framework to target hybrid attacks that have been rising over the last year is also on the agenda.

"The European Council strongly condemns all types of hybrid activities... including intimidation, sabotage, foreign information manipulation and interference, disinformation, malicious cyber activities and the instrumentalisation of migrants by third countries," the draft conclusions stated.

"In response to Russia's destabilising actions abroad, the European Council reiterates its call for work to be taken forward in the Council to establish a new sanctions regime."

NATO said in May it was "deeply concerned" about recent hybrid attacks that affected several EU countries, notably those on its eastern flank, and blamed Russia.

Moscow regularly denies Western accusations that it is involved in hybrid attacks.

What are hybrid attacks?

NATO define hybrid attacks as threats that combine military and non-military as well as covert and overt means, including "disinformation, cyber attacks, economic pressure, deployment of irregular armed groups and use of regular forces".

These kinds of attacks are below the threshold of open armed aggression but are intended to manipulate the targeted government and society indirectly.

They aim to cause public panic, soften the targeted country's authorities, and force decisions desired by the aggressor.

They can be conducted by agents of secret services or special forces, non-state mercenaries, private military contractors or recruited local criminals. 

China is not neutral when it comes to the Russia-Ukraine war and has sided with Vladimir Putin, according to the US ambassador to Beijing.

Nicholas Burns said that despite its claims of neutrality, China was providing a range of technologies to Moscow while maintaining strong trade ties with Russia throughout the conflict.

Speaking in the Chinese financial hub of Shanghai, he said Russia's invasion, now in its third year, had become an "existential crisis" in Europe.

"We think it's a major mistake to allow Chinese companies, by the thousands, to be sending so many components, technology components, microprocessors (and) nitrocellulose to Russia to reinforce and strengthen the defence industrial base of the Russian Federation for this brutal war," Mr Burns said.

China "is not neutral, but has effectively sided with Russia in this war", the ambassador added.

Beijing has refused to refer to Russia's invasion as such, and has blamed NATO for provoking Mr Putin. Prior to the invasion in February 2022, China and Russia signed an agreement vowing a limitless friendship.

EU sanctions

Meanwhile, China has called on the European Union to "unconditionally" stop sanctioning Chinese firms.

The EU's 14th package of sanctions on Russia included several companies located in Hong Kong, as well as two global satellite giants.

The firms are now subject to drastic restrictions over sales of "dual-use goods and technology" that could be used for the "enhancement of Russia's defence and security sector".

Beijing hit back on Tuesday, saying it opposed "unilateral sanctions with no basis in international law" and had lodged "stern representations" with the EU.

"The development of normal exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and Russian businesses does not target any third party," foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a regular press briefing in Beijing.

By Ivor Bennett, Moscow correspondent

In general, the official line from the Kremlin on this case is that it's a matter for the court and it therefore can't comment.

That was the answer last week when Vladimir Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, was asked why the trial would be held behind closed doors.

Russia insists its courts are independent, and that justice must be left to run its course.

Today, the line evolved slightly. Mr Peskov said the case was "not so resonant" in Russia.

That's not how it felt at the courthouse in downtown Yekaterinburg.

There were dozens of camera crews and photographers there, including a local outlet called Scream TV, which appeared more interested in us, as foreign media, than the case itself. 

The US accuses Russia of stockpiling Americans, like Evan Gershkovich, to use as human bargaining chips.

If that's the case, it feels like the Kremlin is trying to maximise its leverage, because Mr Peskov also said today that there was currently no sign of a possible exchange.

Moscow is working on a "big treaty" with Iran, Russia's foreign ministry spokesman Maria Zakharova has said.

Ms Zakharova's comment appeared to be a reference to a comprehensive bilateral cooperation agreement that is being negotiated between Tehran and Moscow.

Earlier this year, it was reported that Iran had supplied Russia with ballistic missiles.

Reuters news agency reported that the Iranian regime had supplied around 400 missiles to Russia for the first time since Vladimir Putin launched his full-scale invasion.

The munitions included many short-range ballistic missiles, with the ability to strike targets at a range of between 186 and 435 miles.

And in January, Russia's foreign ministry said that a new interstate treaty reflecting the "unprecedented upswing" in Russia-Iran ties was in the final stages of being agreed.

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More From Forbes

How to explore puerto rico, one of the caribbean’s top destinations for lgbtq+ travel.

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Same-sex marriage was legalized in Puerto Rico in 2015.

Long famed for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests and towering mountains, the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico serves as a particularly popular vacation destination for U.S. residents and international visitors alike—but it’s not just the island’s abundant natural beauty that serves as a major draw for tourism. Puerto Rico has been a top destination for LGBTQ+ travelers for years thanks to its many gay-friendly hotels, restaurants and communities, providing an opportunity for queer visitors to explore the island to their heart’s content. Whether you’re hoping to sample local cuisine in Old San Juan, explore the scenic shores of Fajardo or just unwind in Condado with a cocktail in hand, the island of Puerto Rico is perfect for a leisurely getaway that’s open to all types of traveler.

Exploring Condado, San Juan’s Idyllic Seaside Escape

Condado is home to the aptly-named Condado Beach, a particularly popular sunbathing destination for ... [+] queer locals and tourists alike.

While Puerto Rico is rife with LGBTQ-friendly destinations spanning from Cabo Rojo to Palmas del Mar, those who prefer to stick close to the capital can find a truly charming base in the form of Condado. Home to sandy beaches and a wealth of high-end drinking and dining venues, this vibrant district is perfect for exploring the rich array of amenities that San Juan has to offer, with the Condado Ocean Club serving as one of its most charming hotels.

Perched just a few steps away from the San Juan shoreline, this polished property exemplifies the upscale charm of Condado at its finest, with 96 palatial rooms that offer dazzling views of the surrounding neighborhood. During a stay, guests are welcome to spend their day lounging around the infinity pool, while SOCIAL is perfect for a refreshing cocktail after a long day under the sun. Options span from orange-infused margaritas to ginger coconut mojitos, both of which pair perfectly with an order of shrimp ceviche or spicy tuna tacos—but of course, SOCIAL is far from the only dining option available across Condado.

For a truly memorable Pride month, be sure to make your way to Wicked Lily , a breezy beachside venue that’s famed for its tantalizing Sunday drag brunch. Upon arrival, guests can grab a rum-loaded Pilgrimage cocktail or spring for the bottomless mimosa special, then snack on crispy calamari and lobster guacamole before the show begins. While frequent performers span from Miss Kweens Klub winner Amalara Sofía to RuPaul's Drag Race Season 14 alum Alyssa Hunter, each Sunday is certain to wow audiences regardless of who’s taking the stage, with no shortage of dazzling outfits and jaw-dropping death drops incorporated into each act.

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Later in the night, Condado visitors can keep the cocktails flowing with a visit to Furtivo Speakeasy Bar , a recent—and truly impressive—addition to the local drinks scene. In addition to classic cocktails like the Rusty Nail and Bee’s Knees, this refined venue also dabbles in the art of craft mixology, offering complex concoctions that range from the Tenerife—a flavorful blend of coconut and dark rum—to the Furtivo Expresso, a bourbon-based cocktail that’s infused with rich notes of coffee and pumpkin. In between sips, guests can also take advantage of the diverse array of tapas found gracing the menu, with the smoked ham-loaded croquetas and deep-fried tuna bao serving as two can’t-miss menu items for first-time diners.

Discovering the Rich Culture of Bayamón and Old San Juan

Old San Juan was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

And of course, there’s no shortage of top-tier destinations for those wishing to broaden their horizons beyond Condado limits. Just south of the neighborhood, Santaella serves as a particularly upscale venue located on the edge of La Placita, a charming open-air market that turns into a boisterous bar district by night. Refined cocktails abound across the menu, with the tropical fruit-loaded Parchita and Golden Family serving as two must-try options for rum lovers, while each individual dish exemplifies the rich flavors of Puerto Rico at their most elegant. To kick off the meal, first-time diners can snack on grilled octopus and crispy alcapurrias loaded with white crab, while the pastelón serves as a particularly hearty main course that’s packed full of puréed sweet plantain, ground beef and a rich blend of cheeses.

For those who prefer to get in touch with their artistic side during their visit to the island, there’s one particularly charming attraction to discover outside of San Juan city limits. In the neighboring municipality of Bayamón, LAU Pottery Studio has made waves across the island thanks to its gorgeous artisanal dishware, much of which can be found gracing many of Puerto Rico’s most upscale restaurants—and for anyone wishing to try their own hand at pottery-making, an in-person workshop is an essential activity. Led by founder Laura Serrano, each class offers an opportunity for guests to craft a vessel of their very own, all while enjoying lively conversation and free-flowing Aperol spritzes.

Just west of Condado, the historic district of Old San Juan serves as a paradise for history buffs thanks to its high concentration of centuries-old churches and landmarks—but for those who want to experience Puerto Rican history in an intangible form, nothing beats a visit to El Bastión . Located steps away from San Juan’s storied Casa Blanca, this cultural center offers a wide array of events each month, with art exhibitions, concerts and workshops all taking place within its grounds. Meanwhile, visitors that wish to discover a particularly engaging cultural practice can enroll in a class with La Bomba Va . This local musical group has mastered the art of bomba—a traditional Puerto Rican music and dance genre that was first created by enslaved African laborers—with traditional drumming and dance classes available for booking.

Post-class, visitors can discover the island’s rich culture in a different form with The Spoon Experience , a local tour company that highlights the intricate history of Puerto Rico through the lens of food and drink. During an Old San Juan Walk & Taste Tour™, guests will have an opportunity to sample two Puerto Rican staples—coffee and rum—while dishes span from pernil (a type of slow-cooked pork dish) to mofongo, a hearty local favorite that consists of garlic, chicharrón and mashed green plantains. Meanwhile, cocktail aficionados can opt for a sunset tour instead to take advantage of San Juan’s thriving drinks scene, with local creations like the piña colada making an appearance along the way.

Navigating the Shores of Fajardo and Luquillo

Fajardo is best known as the home of Laguna Grande, a tranquil water feature that's full of ... [+] bioluminescent plankton.

After exploring the vibrant drinking and dining scene across Condado, nothing compares to a lengthy excursion along Puerto Rico’s sunny shores—and for best results, there’s no beating a trip out to Fajardo. Located on the northeastern edge of the island, this picturesque municipality has long been renowned for its gorgeous beaches and abundant natural beauty, with Kayaking Puerto Rico perfectly equipped to showcase all that the region has to offer.

Armed with a small fleet of motorized mini boats as well as kayaks, this small-scale outdoor adventure company provides guests with an opportunity to experience the splendor of eastern Puerto Rico as well as its native flora and fauna. To kick off the trip, guests jet off east, surging through the surf to find Cayo Icacos, an uninhabited island that draws locals in droves thanks to its soft white sand and turquoise water. Upon arrival, guests are welcome to snorkel in search of colorful reef fish like the royal gramma and honeycomb cowfish, while the island itself also serves as a top-tier birdwatching destination, with species like the magnificent frigatebird and red-billed tropicbird visible from the shoreline. And as an added bonus, guests can find a truly picturesque lunch spot on the way back to Condado in the form of Sama .

A recent addition to the shores of Puerto Rico’s Luquillo municipality, this idyllic restaurant showcases the culinary expertise of Chef Erika Suárez, a lauded local restaurateur who made history as the first female Executive Chef at the island’s iconic El Conquistador Resort. After basking in the picturesque ocean views from the open-air dining area, visitors can take a seat, snag a refreshing Sama Spritz and then take advantage of the incredible offerings found all throughout the menu. To kick off the meal, the buttermilk-marinated calamari and caldo e’ pescau are perfect for immersing oneself in the island’s seafood scene, with the branzino serving as an ideal main dish thanks to its savory notes accented by hon-shimeji mushrooms and bonito beurre blanc.

While there’s no shortage of stunning islands to explore across the Caribbean, Puerto Rico has earned abundant acclaim thanks to its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes and welcoming community—the latter of which has turned the island into one of the region’s top havens for LGBTQ+ tourism. While gay hotels and nightclubs abound within the San Juan metro area, Puerto Rico as a whole offers a wealth of inclusive communities scattered all throughout its borders, allowing queer couples and individuals alike to experience the rich beauty of the island both safely and comfortably.

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The Best Ways To Go To China and Travel Around

China has built a comprehensive transportation system of airports, trains, highways, subways, ports, and waterways that is world class in many places.

In the past decade, the construction of high speed rail lines, highways, and many new subways has transformed China's transportation system and the daily life of the people.

This information is about how to best enjoy these new transportation facilities to go to China, travel between cities, and local travel.

How To Get to China

By air travel.

Airplanes are the fastest and most convenient means of transportation for international travel between most of the countries in the world and China. Air travel can save precious time and energy for enjoying the attractions in your destination.

China's Airlines have witnessed dramatic improvements year upon year. In 2015, 436 million air passengers were ferried. This is almost double the passengers who flew in 2009.

The hubs of China's air travel are Beijing , Shanghai , Guangzhou and Hong Kong . These four cities were in the world's top 20 busiest airports in 2015.

International flights go to major cities around the world, and domestic flights go to all major cities within the country. See top gateway cities>>

There are two cities in China that have two airports: Beijing ( Capital International Airport and Nanyuan Airport) and Shanghai ( Pudong International Airport and Hongqiao International Airport ).

Air Travel Tips

• If you choose to board a plane by yourself, please make sure of your flight information: departure time, flight terminal and airport.
• Please let us know if you are a member of a certain airline company if you book flights with China Highlights because we can consult about membership points for you.
• Visa free access: Currently about 16 cities have 72-hour visa-free access.

By International Cruise Ship

Cruise ships: Some would enjoy the leisurely option of international travel by cruise ship. Cruise ships dock at Tianjin for passengers going to Beijing. Ships ply all around East Asia and could take you to China or Hong Kong.

By International Train

International trains: Russians and Europeans might consider a journey from Moscow to Beijing . The journey time presently is about 124 to 144 hours depending on the route.

There are direct train lines to Vietnam also. The Hanoi, Vietnam to China train is an option especially for border crossing from Guangxi. International trains also go to Ulan Bator (Mongolia) and Pyongyang (North Korea).

How To Travel Long Distances in China

Once you're in China, we recommend domestic flights for simple, convenient longer distance travel, especially to western China and parts of central China.

But a recent development is that China's new bullet trains allow travel to many cities in the central, eastern and northeastern areas that is fast, convenient and economical.

Transportation Between Main Tourist Cities

Here is a plethora of information including bus stations, trains, and ferries and addresses for travel between these cities:

• Beijing-Shanghai Transportation
• Shanghai -Hangzhou Transportation
• Guangzhou-Shenzhen Transportation
• Guangzhou-Hong Kong Transportation
• Guangzhou-Zhuhai-Macau Transportation
• Hong Kong -Shenzhen Transportation
• Hong Kong-Macau Transportation

China Train Travel

Traveling by train is one of the cheapest ways to travel on some of the long distance routes in China, and it is popular with the local population. In general, we recommend that tourists would benefit from taking bullet trains where possible and only taking the slower regular trains to save money if you have the time to travel or the interest. See Out of the Ordinary Trains below for special interest trains.

Bullet Train Travel

Bullet trains : On routes to cities where it is available, it offers speed, convenience and economy. China's new bullet train system is unique in the world for its size and low priced tickets . For example, you can presently travel between Beijing and Shanghai by the superfast G train in five or six hours for 88 USD and save money and time.

However, for longer journeys between Beijing and Guangzhou (8 to 10 hours) or Shanghai to Chongqing (13 hours), taking a plane is probably more convenient though more expensive.

English: Compared to regular train stations, the bullet train stations have more extensive English signage and the staff speak more English.

What To Expect on Chinese Trains

It is important to know what to expect if you decide to travel by train in China.

English is generally not spoken by any of the staff on the regular trains or in the regular railway stations, and there are limited English signs on the regular railway stations.

China Highlights recommends booking a soft sleeper because you'll get a separate waiting lounge. Priority boarding is available at the railway stations for passengers traveling in the soft sleeper section.

Train Travel Tips

• China Trains Schedules and Booking
• More information about Train Travel in China including classifications, accommodation classes of China's trains, and tips for taking trains in China.
• International Trains: Beijing–Ulan Bator, Beijing–Moscow, Beijing–Hanoi, and Beijing–Pyongyang.

Out-of-the-Ordinary Trains

The Shanghai Maglev Train was the first commercial maglev line in the world, and as yet, it is the only working commercial line. It was listed by Guinness Records in 2003 as the fastest train in the world in commercial use. It can reach 431 km/hr (268 mph) during the journey.

These two regular trains below are notable:

• The scenic Qinghai to Tibet train: If you have the time to travel and can afford the extra expense, this high altitude train in an enjoyable experience for many. But it is much more expensive than a flight to Lhasa.

An App for Train Travel on the Go

China Train Booking brings our widely acclaimed China train ticket booking onto your smartphone. More and more travelers plan and book tickets with smartphones, and this app is just the right one for smart train travel. It helps travelers search real-time timetables, check availability, and book China train tickets with just some taps on your phone.

Long Distance Travel in China by Bus

We suggest that you don't use long distance buses unless absolutely necessary due to uncomfortable conditions and safety concerns. Buses go everywhere in China and are economical, but theft and other issues are more likely.

In 2012, the total mileage of highways in China reached 4,237,000 km (2,633,000 miles). Almost all towns, counties, and cities are accessible by highway, and buses can take you almost anywhere. Highway construction has actually intensified since.

Road conditions are usually very good, but be prepared that in remote areas such as Guizhou, Tibet and Xinjiang, the roads might be poor. It is suggested that travelers lower their expectations for facilities or comfort in these areas.

The frequent departures available for buses make the tickets easier to get than train tickets. Buses are also often cheaper than train travel for the same distance.

Sleeper buses are available for longer trips. Bed space is very cramped and you should take extra special care of your belongings. Theft is more common on buses than in the hard bed or soft bed cabins on trains.

Read more information about highway travel in China , including how to buy bus tickets, how to find and board the bus, bus travel tips, and conditions in China's buses.

China Tourist Cruises

Yangtze cruises : Of all the rivers, the long and broad Yangtze River is the favorite for cruise boat tours.

There is interesting and beautiful scenery. You can travel all the way from Shanghai to Chongqing by cruise boat and see cities and highlights in between as your leisurely travel.

Since they are simple to use, safe and quite inexpensive (a ticket may be as low as 30 cents USD), travel by subway is probably the best way for tourists where they are available.

Rapid construction: Since 2002, subways were rapidly built in many cities. Now [2017] about 23 cities have subways lines, and more subway systems are under construction in other cities. The top two longest subways are in Shanghai and Beijing.

They are a good way for tourists to get around because there are English signs and maps and English speaking attendants. Subways stop at central hubs where you can conveniently transfer to other means of transportation.

More information about China's subways such as boarding and tips.

Taking a Taxi in China

Taking a taxi is the most comfortable and secure way of getting around. Taking a taxi is a very fast and convenient way to get to your destination, whether it be a hotel, a scenic spot, an airport, or a railway station.

You can find taxis in almost every city , and the fare is relatively inexpensive for Western travelers. Simply wave your hand and a taxi will stop for you. Prices vary by city but are usually very cheap. The meter should always be activated. Pay the driver upon arrival. Tipping is not the custom.

You can order a taxi from your hotel and ask the concierge to write down your destination on a card. Tourists can also hire a taxi for a half or a whole day , but make sure you first agree on a price with the driver.

More information about taxis in China including the differences between taxi fares in the main tourist cities and tips for taking taxis in China.

Private Transport and Touring - free of hassles, more flexibility

Private drivers: The most convenient and pleasant way is to go with us on private tour or transport. Our driver and guide will wait for you at your hotel and drive you around where you want to go by air-conditioned car.

• Your guide will arrange your entry tickets and any transport tickets (in advance), saving you a lot of time and trouble lining up.
• Our English speaking guide will help you travel quickly and comfortably and interpret for you.

We are known for providing hassle free and individualized help for our customers. We are especially helpful for tourists who don't speak the language and are new to traveling in China. Going with a disreputable outfits can cause problems.

Unusual Local Transportation

In many places tourists go, there are people on motorcycles, tricycles, pedicabs and even bicycles available and looking for riders. We suggest that tourists new to China avoid these for safety and to avoid being overcharged. Locals will often ride these types of vehicles for convenience and price, but they are familiar with the area and know what to expect.

Cycling in China

Cycling is an excellent method for getting around in China's cities or seeing tourist sights such as Guilin or Xi'an. But now in many inner cities, cycling is restricted or illegal.

China still is thought of by many as the kingdom of bicycles. China had 500 million bicycles in 1987 or one for every two citizens. But China now has the largest automobile industry by far, and about twenty million automobiles are sold each year.

However, in some poor rural parts of the country, bicycles are still ingrained in everyday life . They are an important means of transportation , and while on tour in China, you can rent a bike and join them riding bikes in the country.

• China Biking Tours

Walking in China

There is probably no better way than walking around to give you an authentic experience of ordinary life. By walking in the lanes or the neighborhoods, you will see things you might never notice from the tourist coach.

However, before you hit the road, here are some tips:

• When crossing the street, you need to look BOTH ways even if the green light is on.
• Pickpockets are very common in tourist spots. Don't carry your valuables and passports in a backpack. Put them securely in an inside pocket or a secure pocket in a waist bag and keep an eye on it.
• Remember to get a business card for your hotel in case you get lost or want to get a taxi back. Or you can ask the hotel staff to write down the places you want to go in both Chinese and English.
• Buy a tourist map of the city with street names and sights in both English and Chinese in case you want to ask for directions.
• Take some small change with you in case you get tired or lost and want to take a subway, bus or taxi. Taxi drivers are reluctant to break 100 Yuan notes, and you might end up getting fake notes in your change.

See also Chinese Traffic Conditions>>

About hiking in China>>

Recommended China Tour Packages

If you are planning a China tour, please see our popular tours below for inspiration:

• 5-Day Shanghai Region BULLET Train Tour : Ride some of the world's fastest trains to the ancient cities of Suzhou, Hangzhou, and Nanjing.
• 11-Day Classic WONDERS Tour : This is the 2016 best seller visiting the highlights in Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin and Shanghai on this around the country tour.

As one of China's biggest travel and tour companies , we can help you go almost anywhere. Tell us how we can help, and we'll also arrange accommodations, tours, and meals as needed. Save time and money too! Read more about China Highlights tours.

Our private transport (with a guide for all your questions and translation needs) offers a far more reliable and fulfilling alternative to public transport. They can pick you up, wait for you, and drive you around. Contact us to make arrangements .

• 8-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Shanghai Private Tour
• 9-Day Beyond the Golden Triangle
• 11-Day China Classic Tour
• Best China Tours 2024/2025: Top Tours for First & Return Trips
• 15 Best Places to Visit in China (2024)
• Best (& Worst) Times to Visit China, Travel Tips (2024/2025)
• How to Plan a 10-Day Itinerary in China (Best 5 Options)
• 8 Days in China: Top 15 Tours and Itineraries (2024/2025)
• China Weather in January 2024: Enjoy Less-Crowded Traveling
• China Weather in February 2024: Places to Go, Costs, and Crowds
• China Weather in March 2024: Destinations, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in April 2024: Where to Go (Smart Pre-Season Pick)
• China Weather in May 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in June 2024: How to Benefit from the Rainy Season
• China Weather in July 2024: How to Avoid Heat and Crowds
• China Weather in August 2024: Weather Tips & Where to Go
• China Weather in September 2024: Weather Tips & Where to Go
• China Weather in October 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in November 2024: Places to Go & Crowds
• China Weather in December 2024: Places to Go and Crowds

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