China Travel Guide for Foreigners
外国人在中国旅行指南
Payments, transport, hospitals, eSIM, translation apps, and daily workflows — built for first-time visitors and long-stay expats.
Before You Arrive
- 1.Install and verify Alipay and WeChat Pay with your passport.
- 2.Buy a China eSIM or plan your local SIM strategy for day-one connectivity.
- 3.Download offline translation packs and save key phrases.
- 4.Save 2-3 hospital options and a bilingual symptom card.
- 5.Install DiDi and a reliable maps app (Baidu or Amap).
Payments & Money
支付与货币
Set up mobile payments before you need them.
Transport & Connectivity
交通与网络
Move between cities and stay online.
Health & Communication
健康与沟通
Prepare for hospital visits and language barriers.
Need Medical Care in China?
For specialist hospital selection, second opinions, or fast-track appointments, see our sister site ChinaMed Select.
Explore 50+ top-ranked Chinese hospitals →Frequently Asked Questions常见问题
What should foreigners prepare before traveling to China?外国人来中国旅行前应准备什么？+
Install Alipay and WeChat Pay, buy a China eSIM or local SIM plan, download offline translation packs, save hospital options, and install DiDi and a maps app.
安装支付宝和微信支付，购买中国 eSIM 或本地 SIM 套餐，下载离线翻译包，保存医院选项，并安装滴滴和地图应用。
Can foreigners use mobile payments in China?外国人可以在中国使用移动支付吗？+
Yes. Foreigners can verify Alipay and WeChat Pay with a passport and link an international Visa, Mastercard, or JCB card. A Chinese bank card offers the best experience if available.
可以。外国人可以使用护照验证支付宝和微信支付，并绑定国际 Visa、Mastercard 或 JCB 卡。如果有中国银行卡，体验会更佳。
Is it safe to go to a Chinese hospital as a foreigner?外国人去中国医院安全吗？+
Yes, especially at Grade 3A hospitals in major cities. Bring your passport, insurance details, and a bilingual symptom list. International clinics and VIP departments often have English-speaking staff.
安全，尤其是在大城市的三甲医院。携带护照、保险详情和双语症状清单。国际诊所和特需门诊通常有英语工作人员。