China
East Asia • CHN
Last updated: September 12, 2026
China is a vast and diverse country offering a blend of ancient history, stunning natural landscapes, and cutting-edge modernity. Travelers can explore thousands of years of imperial heritage while experiencing the rapid growth and technological advancements of its major megacities.
Visa Requirements
Most international tourists require a visa obtained from a Chinese embassy or consulate in advance, though certain countries qualify for short-term visa-free entry under specific transit programs or bilateral agreements.
Typically Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity
- Completed visa application form
- Recent passport-style photographs
- Proof of round-trip flight bookings
- Hotel reservation confirmation
- Detailed travel itinerary
Popular Attractions
The Great Wall of China is an iconic fortification stretching across northern China, offering breathtaking mountain views and profound historical significance.
The Forbidden City in Beijing served as the imperial palace for centuries, featuring grand architecture and vast collections of Chinese art.
The Terracotta Army in Xi'an consists of 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 striking contrast between historic colonial-era buildings and the futuristic skyscrapers of the Lujiazui skyline across the river.
Jiuzhaigou Valley is a nature reserve famous for its multi-level waterfalls and colorful lakes that offer some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the country.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Always present business cards or small gifts with both hands as a sign of respect.
It is polite to refuse a compliment or a gift initially, though accepting it after a moment is standard practice.
Avoid pointing with your index finger, as it is considered rude; use an open hand instead.
Table manners matter, so avoid leaving chopsticks standing upright in a bowl of rice, as this resembles a funeral ritual.
Tipping is generally not expected in China and may even be viewed as unusual or unnecessary in most daily interactions.
Dress modestly when visiting temples or rural areas to show respect for local traditions and religious sites.
Safety Tips
Keep your passport and important documents in a secure location, though you should carry a photocopy while exploring.
Use only official taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps like Didi to avoid unlicensed transport scams.
Stay aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas to prevent pickpocketing.
Drink only bottled or boiled water, as tap water in China is generally not considered safe for consumption.
Register for a local SIM card or a reliable VPN before arrival, as many Western social media platforms and websites are blocked.
Be cautious when crossing streets, as traffic patterns can be unpredictable even when you have the right of way.
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 arriving from countries with risk of YF 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 provide protection against 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
Necessary to reduce the risk of diseases spread by insects (e.g., Japanese encephalitis).
Use repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and stay in climate-controlled housing.
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
To prevent gastrointestinal illness, avoid certain foods and beverages.
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 or rural areas.
Risk is higher through contaminated food and water.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to the risk of exposure through 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
Considered for travelers spending time outdoors, with wildlife, or involved in activities that increase risk of animal bites.
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
Recommended for long-term travelers or those spending significant time in rural areas or endemic regions.
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