China Starter Kit

1. Will my phone work in China?

Short answer Yes. But some things won't work the way you're used to.

The honest truth

Google, Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook, YouTube, and X (Twitter) are blocked in China. Google Maps won't load. Your iCloud backup won't complete. If you land without a plan, you'll feel cut off.

How people deal with it

There are two common solutions that travelers use:

• VPN — A service you install on your phone before departure. Once activated in China, it gives you access to all the apps you normally use.
• eSIM with built-in VPN — Services like Airalo and Nomad offer China-specific eSIM data plans that work with major Chinese carriers, often bundled with VPN access.

What about maps?

Google Maps is blocked. Apple Maps works (it uses local map data in China). Many travelers also download Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode) — but the English interface is limited.

One tip from experience

If you use an iPhone, turn off iCloud backup while you're in China. Your phone will keep trying to reach Apple's servers (which are blocked), and it drains your battery fast.

Want a step-by-step VPN setup guide and eSIM recommendations? We cover that in our WeChat Concierge plan — along with personalized setup help over WeChat.

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2. How do I pay for things?

Short answer Not with cash or credit cards the way you do in the US.

China is nearly cashless

In major Chinese cities, people don't carry wallets. They pay for everything — from a $0.50 bottle of water to a $200 dinner — by scanning a QR code with their phone. It's fast, convenient, and everyone uses it.

What works and what doesn't

• Alipay and WeChat Pay — These are how China pays. You can link a foreign Visa or Mastercard to either app. Once set up, you scan and go.
• Credit cards — Accepted at major hotels and some big stores. Useless at restaurants, taxis, street vendors, and most everyday places.
• Cash — Still accepted everywhere, but you'll get strange looks for small purchases. Good to have $100-200 equivalent as backup.
• ATMs — Work with Visa/Mastercard but charge fees. Find Bank of China or ICBC ATMs for best compatibility.

How much things cost

China can be as cheap or as expensive as you want. A bowl of noodles might cost $3. A high-end dinner $50. A 5-star hotel $150. High-speed train between Beijing and Shanghai (800 miles) — around $80 in second class.

Need a hand setting up Alipay or WeChat Pay before your trip? Our Custom Itinerary and WeChat Concierge plans include step-by-step guidance and real-time help.

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3. Is China safe for tourists?

Short answer Yes — safer than most US cities you've been to.

The numbers don't lie

China has one of the lowest violent crime rates in the world. According to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, China's intentional homicide rate is 0.5 per 100,000 people — compared to 6.4 in the United States. That's roughly 13x safer.

What that means on the ground

• People walk alone at 2am in most cities without a second thought
• You won't see homeless encampments or drug use on the street
• Police are visible but generally leave tourists alone unless you need help
• Subway stations have security checks — same as airport security — which deters trouble
• Women travelers consistently report feeling safe traveling solo in China

The real things to watch out for

China is safe, but it's not perfect. Here's what actually happens:

• Taxi scams — Some drivers overcharge tourists. Use Didi (the Chinese Uber, which has an English version) to avoid this.
• Pickpocketing — Standard big city caution applies in crowded areas and tourist spots.
• Food hygiene — Street food is generally fine, but if you have a sensitive stomach, stick to busy stalls with high turnover.
• Tap water — Do NOT drink tap water. Drink bottled or boiled water. Even locals don't drink from the tap.

Political climate — can I talk freely?

As a tourist, you won't face any issues. Stick to travel-related conversations and you'll have a smooth experience. Millions of foreigners visit China every year and enjoy their trips without incident.

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4. Can I survive without speaking Chinese?

Short answer Yes — especially in big cities and tourist areas.

More English than you think

Major airports, train stations, and subway systems all have English signs and announcements. Tourist attractions (The Great Wall, Forbidden City, Shanghai Museum) have English descriptions. Many hotel staff speak basic English.

In Beijing and Shanghai, you'll find English menus at most restaurants in tourist areas. Street signs in city centers often have English transliterations.

Translation apps are your best friend

Two apps will cover 95% of situations:

• Google Translate — Download the Chinese language pack offline before you go. The camera feature translates menus and signs in real time.
• Apple's built-in Translate app — Works offline, supports conversation mode (speak and it translates both ways).

Where you might struggle

• Small local restaurants with picture-only menus (pointing works!)
• Taxis with drivers who don't speak English (show the address written in Chinese on your phone)
• Markets and street vendors (hand gestures + smiles go a long way)

Honest advice

You won't be able to have conversations with locals unless you learn some Chinese. But for ordering food, buying tickets, and getting around — translation apps and English signs are enough.

Want a set of essential survival phrases and a restaurant-ordering cheat sheet? Our paid guides include everything you need to navigate confidently.