Quick answers to the questions travelers ask most.
Is the tap water safe to drink?
No. Drink bottled or boiled water. Hotels provide kettles; bottled water is cheap and sold everywhere.
Do I need cash, or is everything mobile payment?
Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay with your foreign card before you arrive — China is nearly cashless. Keep a small amount of cash as backup for rural areas.
Can I use Google, Instagram, or WhatsApp in China?
Most overseas apps and sites are blocked. Install and test a reliable connectivity tool before you arrive, and download offline maps and translation packs.
Is China safe for tourists?
Yes — violent crime against tourists is rare and big cities feel safe at night. The real risks are scams, traffic, and language barriers. Read our Safety & Help section.
Do hotels accept foreigners?
All licensed hotels can register foreign guests with a passport, but some small budget guesthouses are unfamiliar with the process. Booking mainstream platforms (Trip.com, Booking, Agoda) avoids surprises.
How many days do I need?
- First trip: 7–10 days (Beijing → Xi'an → Shanghai)
- Deeper: 14 days (add Chengdu, Guilin, or Zhangjiajie)