China
East Asia • CHN
Last updated: October 12, 2026
China is a vast and captivating destination that seamlessly blends thousands of years of ancient history with rapid modern development. From iconic architectural wonders to diverse culinary landscapes, it offers a travel experience unlike any other in the world.
Visa Requirements
Most international tourists require a visa to enter China, though specific visa-free transit policies exist for certain nationalities in designated cities for up to 144 hours.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport with at least six months validity
- Completed visa application form
- Recent passport-sized photograph
- Proof of round-trip travel itinerary
- Hotel reservation or invitation letter
Popular Attractions
The Great Wall of China is an awe-inspiring ancient structure that stretches across rugged mountains, offering spectacular views and historical significance.
The Forbidden City in Beijing serves as a magnificent example of traditional Chinese palace architecture and served as the imperial home for centuries.
The Terracotta Army in Xi'an features thousands of life-sized clay soldiers buried with the first Emperor of China to protect him in the afterlife.
The Bund in Shanghai provides a stunning contrast between the city's colonial-era heritage and the futuristic skyline of the Pudong district across the river.
The Li River in Guilin is famous for its breathtaking karst mountain landscapes, which have inspired countless traditional Chinese paintings.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Always present or receive business cards and gifts with both hands as a sign of respect.
Avoid pointing at people or objects with your index finger; instead, use an open palm gesture.
Tipping is generally not expected in China, and it may even be considered unusual or insulting in some local establishments.
Table manners are important, such as not leaving chopsticks sticking vertically into a bowl of rice, which resembles a funeral rite.
When invited to someone's home, it is polite to bring a small gift like fruit or tea, and remove your shoes if required.
Safety Tips
Keep a digital or physical copy of your passport and visa information in a separate location from your originals.
Stick to registered taxi services or use ride-hailing apps like Didi to avoid being overcharged by unlicensed vehicles.
Be cautious in crowded tourist areas, as pickpocketing can occur in busy markets and public transportation hubs.
Always carry the address of your hotel written in Chinese characters to help with navigation or communicating with taxi drivers.
Drink only bottled or boiled water, as tap water in China is generally not considered safe for consumption.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Proof of vaccination is required for travelers aged 9 months or older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Core Vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common vaccine-preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel for general health protection.
View sourceTdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
Source: CDC
Stay protected against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.
View sourceMMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are vaccinated against measles, especially if traveling to crowded places.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (Hepatitis B)
Source: CDC
Especially for travelers who may have close contact with local populations.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers due to ongoing COVID-19 transmission.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Adults should receive a Td booster every 10 years; this is important for travelers who may encounter injury.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Insect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Prevention of vector-borne diseases is recommended for all travelers.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and use bed nets.
View sourceFood and water safety
Source: CDC
To prevent gastrointestinal illness, travelers should eat only thoroughly cooked food and drink safe/bottled water.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Prevent vector-borne diseases.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts/pants, and stay in accommodations with air conditioning or window screens.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Prevent enteric illnesses by consuming safe food and water.
Drink only bottled, boiled, or chemically disinfected water; avoid ice; eat food served hot.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Practice food and water safety to prevent travelers' diarrhea and other foodborne illnesses.
Eat only food that is cooked and served hot; drink bottled or boiled water.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
As per health regulations for travel and to reduce risk of COVID-19 infection.
View sourceInfluenza
Source: CDC
Annual vaccination is recommended for influenza protection, especially during the flu season.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
To protect against COVID-19, vaccination is strongly recommended for all travelers.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities and rural areas.
Recommended due to food and water safety concerns.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to the risk of exposure through contaminated food or water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Water and food safety precautions
Source: CDC
To reduce the risk of food and waterborne illnesses.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Prevent diseases transmitted by insects, such as dengue and malaria.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To reduce risk of insect-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria.
Use repellents containing DEET.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for those who may eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceJapanese Encephalitis
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers spending a significant amount of time outdoors in rural areas or during the transmission season.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who might have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or receive medical procedures.
View sourceJapanese Encephalitis
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers spending a month or more in endemic areas or those involved in extensive outdoor activities.
View source