10 Essential China Travel Tips You Should Know Before Visiting

Traveling to China can be an exciting experience. The country boasts a rich history along with some of the fastest-moving societies. Therefore, it's normal for someone who has never traveled to China before to notice significant differences in their everyday activities. With a bit of planning, you will have an enjoyable trip.

With that said, here are 10 travel guide suggestions that will help you be more comfortable in your travels to China.

1. Learn Basic Chinese Phrases and Greetings

Although there are many hotels and popular attractions in China that have staff who speak some English, most of the people working at stores, restaurants, and markets are unfamiliar with the English language. The general public, especially on rural streets, use Chinese and do not understand English.

Asking simple questions about prices, directions, and greetings in the native language makes your interactions with the local community much more pleasant.

A couple examples of the phrases you may wish to learn would include nǐ hǎo (hello), xièxie (thank you), and duōshǎo qián (how much is this?). Even if you mispronounce the words, the Chinese people will appreciate your effort.

You may also hear people say “bye-bye” (拜拜) instead of a formal goodbye.

2. Mobile Payments are a Must (Alipay/WeChat Pay)

In China, cash does not make up a very large percentage of what people use today. In fact, China has become a largely cashless society. QR codes are used for payment for everything from large department stores to small food vendor carts. In essence, cash is still accepted by most vendors in theory, however, a large amount of vendors have stopped carrying change altogether.

As a result, the majority of travelers use mobile payment applications such as Alipay and WeChat Pay, both of which now allow foreign travelers to create an account utilizing their international bank credit/debit card.

If you set this up prior to or shortly after your arrival, it will make for a much smoother experience.

We recommend preparing mobile payment apps in advance.

3. Essential Chopsticks Etiquette

You will use chopsticks for most Chinese meals. These meals also offer social interaction, and the Chinese will not expect you to master chopsticks; they would rather see you trying!

Some etiquette pointers:

- Do not stand chopsticks upright while in rice

- Do not point to people with your chopsticks

- Do not use chopsticks to drum on your bowl

- If you cannot use chopsticks, many restaurants in tourist areas provide forks, but learning to use chopsticks will enhance the experience you have in the restaurants.

4. Understanding Personal Space and Crowds

The concept of personal space changes in China. There are many people living within China. Many people, especially in large cities, live in close quarters with each other. When travelling on subway trains, and through train stations and markets, there are very often large numbers of people standing closely together.

In China, this does not necessarily indicate rudeness. Instead, this simply represents what is considered to be the normal flow of behaviour in daily life.

As soon as you adjust to the new amount of personal space, you will begin to feel comfortable with the flow of people around you.

5. Tipping is Not Customary in China

In China, tips are not customarily given as all prices are already included in restaurant tabs, taxi fares and other types of service.

Should you leave behind an extra sum of money, it is typical for staff to graciously return it to you.

For international hotel guests, tippings are an optional practice, and no guest is ever required to tip.

6. Temple Etiquette and Appropriate Dress

Temples are not just museums or things for tourists but are also working places for religious worship.

While at the temple, dress appropriately. Speak quietly and avoid touching any statues or objects used in rituals.

Should you wish to light an incense stick, please do so by holding it upright in front of you while bowing your head before placing it into the holder.

By observing these small details and manners, you are displaying a level of respect as well as allowing yourself to properly appreciate and truly enjoy the atmosphere of the temple.

7. Toasting Etiquette and the 'Gānbēi' Tradition

During group dinners, you may hear the term "gānbēi" (干杯) when a person wishes to say cheers.

If a person is toasting you, it is always courteous to drink at least a small amount from your glass.

In addition to being courteous, when clinking glasses, if the person you’re clinking your glass with is older or in a position of authority, make certain that your glass is lower than theirs. This is considered a show of respect and will be appreciated.

8. Be Prepared for Squat Toilets

In many public locations, especially those outside of the major metropolitan areas, you will find a lot of squat toilets. Western-style toilets are available at most airports, hotels and shopping centers.

Always carry tissues and hand sanitizers because you might not find them available to you. The way you will use the squat toilet may seem strange to you at first, but most travellers will have no problems adapting to using squat toilets.

9. Personal Questions are a Sign of Interest, Not Rudeness

A person may ask you about your age, occupation, or marital status; however, in Chinese culture, this is typical conversation rather than a violation of privacy.

You do not have to provide a detailed or elaborate reply to these questions; instead, you may provide a clear but light-hearted response. Aside from that, they may be starting points for a warm relationship and possible cultural exchange.

10. Food is the Best Way to Experience Chinese Culture

Food has always played a major role in the culture of China; people frequently enjoy their meals together, placing their dishes at the center of the table and enjoying a little taste of all the dishes.

When eating at local restaurants, try to be adventurous and sample some local dishes, such as Peking duck, hotpot, street food like jianbing, or a local comfort food that you've never seen before.

When you create an association with locals through food, you will come to see China in a much more profound way than simply having meals there.

Finding a Connection through Food is the Best Way to Experience China.

Final China Travel Tips: Be Patient and Curious

Be open to what you see, be patient, and be curious; travelers who take the time to observe and adapt to the differences of China, will find that their experience is more enjoyable, smoother, and far more memorable with the above-mentioned tips.