The Journal
Practical guidance and stories for a more considered journey through China.
Practical China Travel
Practical China Travel Guides
Start with your first-trip checklist, then choose the question in front of you: entry, payments, arrival, transport, meals or a museum reservation.
Start here
Your first-trip checklist
A clear place to begin, from entry documents to your first day.
Read the checklist Photo: N509FZ · CC BY-SA 4.0Visas & entry
Check your passport, route and arrival documents.
Payments in China
Set up your wallet and learn the two ways to pay.
Airport to hotel
Choose your airport transfer, find the meeting point and keep a clear backup for a late flight or a phone without data.
Metro & buses
Choose a ticket, activate a transport code and find the right station, direction and exit.
Eating out & ordering
Read a menu, choose portions, order at the table and settle the bill with confidence.
Attractions & museum tickets
Find the booking route, enter passport details and keep a useful alternative when tickets are unavailable.