This guide is for overseas travelers joining Xieya Travel's group tours to China.

I. Visa and Entry

Visa Types

• Most overseas travelers need to apply for a Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa)
• Citizens of some countries may enjoy visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival policies; please confirm the latest policies for your country in advance.
• Singaporean citizens currently enjoy visa-free entry (within 15 days); please refer to the latest announcements from the Chinese Embassy in your country.

Application Materials (General Requirements)

• Valid passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date, with blank visa pages)
• Recent color passport-sized photo with a white background
• Round-trip flight booking confirmation
• Hotel booking confirmation or itinerary
• Visa application form (filled out truthfully)

Application Advice

• It is recommended to start the visa application process 4–6 weeks before your departure
• You can apply through the Chinese Embassy in your country or an authorized visa application center.
• If you need assistance, please contact us; we can provide an invitation letter for your itinerary.

II. Currency and Payments

• The currency in circulation in China is the Renminbi (CNY/RMB)
• It is recommended to exchange a small amount of cash at a local bank or airport before departure.

Payment Methods in China

• Daily transactions in China primarily use WeChat Pay and Alipay
• Alipay International Version: Can be used by linking an overseas credit card.
• WeChat Pay: Can be used for small transactions by linking an overseas Visa/Mastercard.
• It is advisable to carry a small amount of RMB cash for places that do not support mobile payments, such as small stalls or rural scenic spots.

Overseas Bank Cards

• UnionPay cards can be used directly for withdrawals at ATMs in China.
• Visa/Mastercard can be used for withdrawals at some bank ATMs, but transaction fees are higher.
• It is recommended to withdraw no more than RMB 2,000 per transaction to reduce fee losses.

III. Transportation

Intercity Transportation

• High-speed rail: China has an extensive high-speed rail network, which is fast and punctual, making it the preferred choice for intercity travel.
• Domestic flights: Suitable for long-distance inter-provincial travel; it is recommended to book tickets 2–3 weeks in advance.
• Private car charter: We can arrange exclusive car charter services for you, suitable for small groups or customized itineraries.

Intra-city Transportation

• Subway: Major cities have extensive subway coverage; you can use a transportation card or scan a QR code to ride.
• Didi Chuxing: The Chinese version of Uber; download the app and link an overseas credit card to use it. It is recommended to install it in advance.
• Taxis: Still available; it is advisable to have the destination address in Chinese.

Practical Advice

• Download Amap (Gaode Maps) (supports English interface); its navigation accuracy is higher than Google Maps.
• You need to present your original passport when taking high-speed rail, so please carry it with you.

IV. Communication and Internet

Internet Restrictions

• Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and other overseas platforms are not directly accessible in mainland China.
• It is recommended to download and set up a VPN abroad before departure (downloading it after entering China might be restricted).

Recommended Overseas SIM Cards

• Hong Kong/Macau SIM card: Can be used for roaming in mainland China, with stable signal.
• Local mainland China SIM card: Can be purchased at the airport, affordable price.
• Portable WiFi device: Suitable for multiple users.

Emergency Contacts

• China Police: 110
• Emergency Medical Service: 120
• Fire Department: 119
• Xieya Travel Emergency Contact: xieyatravel@gmail.com

V. Health and Safety

• It is recommended to purchase travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip cancellation, and luggage loss.
• If you have a chronic illness, please bring sufficient regular medication and a summary of your medical history in English.
• For some regions, vaccination against Hepatitis A and typhoid is recommended; please consult your family doctor.
• Tap water in China is not recommended for direct drinking; please drink bottled water or boiled water.
• Northern cities may experience smog in winter; those with respiratory sensitivities are advised to carry a mask.
• Please take care of your personal belongings and avoid displaying valuables in crowded areas.

VI. Cultural Etiquette

Basic Etiquette

• You can nod or shake hands when meeting; respect elders first.
• Do not stick chopsticks vertically in your rice bowl during meals (this is a custom for offerings to the deceased).
• Use both hands when receiving business cards or gifts, as a sign of respect.
• Please dress conservatively and maintain quietness when entering temples.
• Tipping culture is not common in China, so no extra tips are required.

Common Chinese Phrases

VII. Weather and Clothing Advice

Packing Suggestions

• Comfortable walking shoes (a lot of walking daily)
• Portable umbrella or lightweight raincoat
• Sunscreen, sun hat (essential in summer)
• Universal travel adapter (Chinese sockets are two-pin/three-pin flat plugs)
• Common medications (cold medicine, stomach medicine, band-aids)

VIII. Contact Us

If you encounter any problems during your trip, please feel free to contact Xieya Travel:
Email: xieyatravel@gmail.com
Response Time: Weekdays 9:00–18:00 (GMT+8)
Website: xieyatravel.com