
China Entry Guide
Prepare for arrival in China with a practical checklist covering documents, immigration, airport services and time-sensitive entry requirements.
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Practical, current guidance for international travellers—written with people on the ground and reviewed as travel changes.
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Prepare for arrival in China with a practical checklist covering documents, immigration, airport services and time-sensitive entry requirements.
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For many international visitors, China's high-speed rail system is one of the most impressive parts of travelling through the country. A journey that once required a full day of travel can now take only a few hours. Travellers can comfortably move between ancient cities, modern megacities and scenic destinations while enjoying: Comfortable seats Beautiful countryside views Reliable schedules Modern stations Convenient connections For first-time visitors, China's train system may look complicated at first—but with some preparation, using high-speed rail is surprisingly easy. This guide explains everything international travellers need to know.
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One of the most common questions international travellers ask before visiting China is: "Is China safe to travel to?" For many visitors, especially those coming to China for the first time, safety is an important factor when choosing a destination. The answer is: Yes, China is generally considered a safe destination for international travellers. Millions of overseas visitors travel through China every year for tourism, business, education and cultural experiences. Like any country, China has its own customs, travel habits and practical considerations. Understanding these differences before your journey can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. This guide covers the key safety topics international travellers should know before visiting China.
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One of the first questions many international visitors ask before travelling to China is: "How will I get around if I cannot speak Chinese?" In many countries, travellers rely on traditional taxis or apps like Uber. In China, ride-hailing services have become an essential part of everyday transportation. The good news: Yes, foreigners can use Didi in China. With the right preparation, international travellers can easily book taxis, travel between airports, hotels, restaurants and attractions, and explore Chinese cities with much greater confidence. This guide explains how Didi works, how foreigners can use it, and what other transportation options are available.
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Do you need a visa to visit China? Learn about China visa requirements, visa-free policies, entry rules and travel preparation tips for international visitors.
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For many international travellers, one of the biggest questions before visiting China is: "How will I pay for things in China?" China has become one of the world's most advanced cashless societies. From restaurants and shopping malls to taxis, convenience stores and local markets, mobile payments are widely used in everyday life. For visitors from countries such as Australia, the United States, the UK and Europe, this may feel unfamiliar at first. The good news is: Yes, foreigners can use mobile payments in China. Today, international travellers can use major payment platforms such as Alipay and WeChat Pay by connecting eligible overseas bank cards. This guide explains how mobile payments work in China and what you should prepare before your trip.
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For many travellers, food is one of the most memorable parts of exploring China. Chinese cuisine is not simply about famous dishes like dumplings, noodles or Peking duck. It is a reflection of China's geography, history, climate and local traditions. With more than 30 provincial-level regions and countless regional specialties, China offers one of the world's most diverse food cultures. The best way to understand Chinese food is not just to taste it, but to discover the stories, people and traditions behind each dish.
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China is one of the easiest countries to travel around once you understand how its transportation system works. With one of the world's largest high-speed rail networks, modern airports, efficient metro systems and convenient ride-hailing services, travelling between cities is often faster and more comfortable than many first-time visitors expect. This guide explains the most common ways to travel around China and helps you choose the best option for your journey.
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China's most memorable experiences aren't always the most famous ones. While iconic landmarks are worth seeing, many travellers say their favourite memories come from authentic local experiences that reveal everyday life and traditional culture.
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GO EAST is a China inbound travel brand specializing in private journeys and small group cultural experiences. Since 2015, we have been creating authentic, immersive and meaningful China travel experiences for global travellers.
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Compare Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Chengdu and nearby regions to shape a first China itinerary that fits your interests and pace.
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Straight answers about entry preparation, payments, internet access, transport, safety and travelling with local support.
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Why our bilingual local team creates slower, clearer and more personal China journeys for Australian travellers.
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Before your trip to China, prepare a practical combination of mobile payments, bank cards that can be used in China and a small amount of cash as backup.
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A practical guide for international travellers using flights, high-speed rail, public transport and private transfers across China.
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