General Travel Information
China Visa Information
All visitors traveling to mainland China, whether for business or pleasure, require a visa. See our Visa Section for more information on obtaining a China visa.
Customs
Items such as watches, radios, cameras, and calculators imported duty free for personal use may not be transferred or sold to
others. Gifts and articles carried on behalf of others must be declared to the customs inspector and are subject to duty. Visitors may
take the following into China duty free:
Alcohol - 2 litres, Tobacco - 400 cigarettes.
Prohibited items:
Chinese customs regulations prohibit the import or export of the following items: Arms, ammunition, radio transmitters/receivers, fruit and certain vegetables books, films, records, tapes, etc. which are “detrimental to China's politics, economy, culture, and ethics” (e.g. pornographic or religious content) poisonous drugs and narcotics.
Penalties for carrying or trafficking illegal drugs are extremely severe, ranging from long prison sentences to the death penalty.
Time
Time Zone: GMT/UTC +8 (Beijing Time.)
Climate and Clothing
China lies mainly in the temperate and subtropical zones. In general, the southern part (East China, South China and Southwest china) is warm, humid, and at times rainy. It's northern part (North China, Northeast China, and northwest China) is dry and windy. In spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), packing a warm jacket is recommended. Summertime (June to August) cool cotton clothing is the best choice. During winters (December to February) lightweights coats and a sweaters are adequate to keep warm in the southern provinces. In the northern provinces, a down coat or similar and heavier sweaters are essential. Spring and late summer are often rainy in Southern China. Lastly, don't forget your most comfortable pair of walking shoes!
Currency Regulations
Chinese currency is called yuan or, more commonly, renminbi (RMB). Foreign currency (cash or traveler's checks) may be exchanged for Chinese currency at licensed exchange facilities of the Bank of China and other authorized banks. Money exchange facilities are available at major airports, hotels, and department stores. Major brands of traveler's checks are accepted at such exchange facilities and cash advances against a credit card can be arranged, a service charge is usually added. Consult with your bank before departing to be sure that your brand of check or credit card will be accepted. Major credit cards (American Express, Mastercard and Visa) are accepted by most major hotels and in many well-known restaurants. ATMs are also available throughout Hong Kong and to a limited extent in major Mainland cities such as Shanghai and Beijing.
Currency Conversion
View the Current Exchange Rate for your currency
Cash, Travellers Checks, Credit Cards, ATM's in China
Learn more about traveling with cash, atm's in China, using travelers checks, credit cards, etc.
Banking Hours
Monday to Friday 9.00 am-12.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm
Tipping
Tipping is not standard practice in China. Recently it's becoming more acceptable within international tourist resorts, hotels, and restaurants.
Language
The official language is Mandarin Chinese (Putonghua), however numerous dialects are also spoken throughout the mainland. Cantonese is the main language of the Hong Kong and and Guangdong Province. Mongolia, Tibet and Xinjiang (autonomous regions) have their own languages. English is not widely spoken although this situation is changing. A phrase book is extremely useful to point to key phrases written in Chinese characters. Another useful item would be a map with place names written in both English and Chinese.
Etiquette local Customs
For more information about local customs and etiquette in China see our etiquette guide.
Telephone
The international dialing code for China is 86 When making international telephone calls from China first dial 00 + country code + area code + telephone number
Electricity
220/240 V AC, 50Hz Either flat or square, two-pin and three-pin plugs are used. It is advisable to take a universal adapter if you plan on using electronics.
Water
Tap water is considered unsafe to drink. Soft drinks and bottled water are readily available.
Health
Make sure that you have adequate health insurance before you travel. Although medical care is available, it is not always of the highest standard. It is always best to check the current situation and any vaccination requirements with your doctor when planning your trip.
Air Travel
Air travel in China is readily available in all major cities. Air Bus and Boeing jets are standard aircraft and prices are reasonable. There are numerous domestic & International airports throughout China. Domestic Airport Departure Tax RMB50. International taxes vary depending on destination.