China is known for its history, landscapes, culture, megacities, and iconic landmarks like the Great Wall. Here’re some quick facts about China:
Capital: Beijing 
Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY) 
Language: Mandarin Chinese 
Time zone: China Standard Time (CST, UTC +8) 
Power plugs: Type A, C & I, 220V / 50Hz 
Driving side: Right Useful local phrases:
Hello: Nǐ hǎo
Thank you: Xièxiè
I’m sorry: Duìbùqǐ
The food/drink is great: Hěn hǎochī
Best time to visit China
Wondering about the best time to visit China? Due to its vast size, the climate varies greatly by region, but here’s a general overview:
Spring
March – May
10–25°C
Mild temperatures
Summer
June – August
25–35°C
Hot and humid
Autumn
September – November
10–25°C
Cool and dry
Winter
December – February
-10-10°C
Cold and mild
So what’s the best time for visiting China?
- Spring: best for nature, sightseeing, and comfortable weather
- Autumn: best for clear skies, cities, and cultural sites
- Summer: best for mountainous regions and festivals
- Winter: best for fewer crowds and snowy landscapes
How to get there and getting around?
Airport: China has many major international airports, including Beijing Capital International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. These are well connected to city centers by metro, trains, and taxis. You can compare flights and find the cheapest deals via Skyscanner. If you don’t know yet when you are going to leave the country, buy an onward ticket and fake your return. This works fine.
Train / Bus options: Public transport is affordable and efficient in most cities. China has one of the best high-speed rail networks in the world, connecting major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, and Guangzhou. Trains are fast, comfortable, and efficient. Long-distance buses are available but less commonly used by travelers.
Car rental / taxis: Driving in China as a foreigner can be difficult, as an international driving permit is not recognized. Most travelers rely on public transport, taxis, or private drivers instead. Uber is not available in China. Local main ride-hailing apps are DiDi, Meituan or Alipay. Make sure to download the apps before arriving, set up payment (Alipay or WeChat Pay is very useful) and have your destination written in Chinese (or use the app map).
Boat travel: River cruises along the Yangtze River are a highlight, offering views of dramatic landscapes like the Three Gorges. Ferries are also used in cities such as Shanghai and Hong Kong.
Cycling or walking: Walking is one of the best ways to explore cities, especially centers. Cycling is very common in China, especially in cities with bike-sharing systems like Beijing and Shanghai. Dedicated bike lanes are available in many urban areas, making cycling a convenient way to get around. It’s also a great way to explore smaller towns and countryside areas. Consider booking a free bicycle or walking tour via Freetour or GuruWalk.
Destinations
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FAQ about China
Is China safe for (female) solo travelers?
Yes, China is generally safe for (female) solo travelers. Cities are well-organized and public transport is reliable. As always, stay aware of your surroundings.
Why is China worth visiting?
I think that China offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, nature, and modern innovation.
Is China cheap to visit?
China can be affordable, especially when using public transport and local restaurants. Prices vary depending on the region and travel style. Avoid ATM transaction fees and pay the local currency with a Wise Visa Card or Revolut Maestro Card. I have been using these cards for several years and have saved a lot of money as a result. I recommend bringing both bank cards with you when you travel.
Is tipping expected in China?
Tipping is not customary in China and is often not expected.
Do I need a visa for visiting China?
Most travelers need a visa to visit China. Always check official government requirements before traveling. The official website to check visa regulations for China is the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) portal: http://www.visaforchina.org. It provides accurate information on visa types, requirements, and application procedures for foreign nationals.
Do I need travel insurance for visiting China?
Yes, I always recommend travel insurance. Heymondo or Safetywing are among the cheapest travel insurances for travelers and cover medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more. As a reader of Girlswanderlust, you’ll receive a 5% discount on your next Heymondo travel insurance.
Will my mobile phone work in China?
Yes, but some international apps and websites may be restricted. Consider using a VPN if needed. The main mobile providers in China are China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom, which operate the country’s primary networks. Smaller or regional brands exist, but these three dominate nationwide coverage. Local SIM cards and eSIMs are widely available. I recommend to skip the hassle of physical SIM cards and stay connected with an eSIM from providers like Holafly, Airalo or Saily. I’ve been using eSIMs on my trips and find them convenient and cost-effective.
Can I drink tap water in China?
No, tap water is generally not safe to drink. Use bottled or boiled water.
Do I need to speak the local language in China?
Not necessarily, but English is less widely spoken outside major cities. Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases can be very helpful.
