Practical Information
What to know before your journey to China, from visas and money to trains and etiquette, written by our China-based team.
Requirements depend on your nationality. China has expanded visa-free entry and visa-free transit for many nationalities in recent years, and the rules change often, so check the current policy for your passport before you travel. If you need a visa, we provide your confirmed itinerary and booking documents to support the application. Your passport should be valid for at least six months.
The currency is the Chinese yuan (CNY, also called RMB). Mobile payment is how almost everything is paid for; both Alipay and WeChat Pay accept international Visa and Mastercard, so set one up before you arrive. International cards work at hotels and larger shops, cash is still accepted everywhere, and ATMs are widely available in cities.
China's size means several climates at once. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–November) are the most comfortable for most regions. Summer is hot and humid in the east and south but is the best season for Tibet and the north-west. Winter is cold in the north, quieter at the major sights, and the season for Harbin's ice festival.
Visitors are welcomed warmly and small courtesies go a long way: receive business cards and gifts with both hands, remove shoes when entering someone's home, and try a few words of Mandarin such as "nǐ hǎo" (hello) and "xièxie" (thank you). Tipping is not customary in China.
Wi-Fi is standard in hotels and cafés. For data, a travel eSIM or local SIM card works well. Many international services, including Google, WhatsApp and Instagram, are not accessible on Chinese networks without a VPN, so install and test one before you arrive. We'll send setup guidance before your trip.
China's high-speed rail network is fast, comfortable and punctual, and connects most cities on our journeys. Domestic flights cover the longer distances. City metros are modern and signed in English. All transport within your itinerary is arranged by Tianyō, with tickets tied to your passport.
Every province has its own cuisine, from Sichuan's chillies and peppercorns to the delicate flavours of Jiangnan. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal and other dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice, and your guide will help with menus and local specialities.
No special vaccinations are required for most travellers. Major cities have international clinics, and comprehensive travel insurance is required for all our journeys. Tap water is not for drinking; bottled water is inexpensive and available everywhere. China is generally very safe for visitors, including at night.
More Questions?
Questions about how to book, what the price includes, guides and group sizes are answered in our FAQ.