China travel guide
China has probably been on your travel radar at some point, especially after seeing all the viral TikTok clips of unreal mountain views and Chengdu’s cute pandas. But if you’re the jiak kantang type whose Mandarin never made it past P6, or someone who doesn’t speak much of the language, the idea of travelling there might feel a bit intimidating.
That’s why we’ve put together a China travel guide with all the essentials you’ll need – from the best apps to download to travel tips – to help you explore China even if your Chinese vocabulary stops at “ni hao.”
The current exchange rate is RMB10 = ~S$1.79 as of 8th May 2025.
Table of Contents
- China travel guide
- Do I need a visa to travel to China as a Singaporean?
- Is it hard to get around China without speaking Mandarin?
- Is there halal food in China?
- Is China safe for tourists?
- Which are the more tourist-friendly cities in China?
- What apps should I download before going to China?
- How to book train tickets in China?
- Tips for planning your China itinerary
- Useful Mandarin phrases for your China trip
Do I need a visa to travel to China as a Singaporean?
Nope. As of 9th February 2024, Singaporeans can travel to China visa-free for up to 30 days.
Is it hard to get around China without speaking Mandarin?
It can be a bit challenging to travel around China without speaking Mandarin, especially if you’re venturing beyond big cities like Shanghai or Beijing. English isn’t as commonly spoken in smaller towns, and things like signboards and menus are usually fully in Chinese.
But don’t panic just yet. With the right apps – which we’ll get into later – and some basic phrases, you’ll be able to get by just fine.
Is there halal food in China?
Image credit: @💗大嘴吃小鱼🐟 via RED
Yes, halal food is actually quite easy to find in major cities like Xi’an, Shanghai, and Beijing.
When hunting for halal eateries, keep an eye out for signboards or a green sign with the Chinese characters “清真” (qīng zhēn) – that’s the term for halal.
The board on the bottom left that reads “清真标志牌” translates to “halal sign.”
Image credit: @💗大嘴吃小鱼🐟 via RED
Some places even display a halal certification paper or board inside the restaurant, just to give you that extra peace of mind.
Is China safe for tourists?
Generally, yes – China is pretty safe for tourists, even if you’re travelling solo. But like anywhere else, stay alert and well informed to avoid falling for common travel scams.
A classic one is the “tea ceremony” scam, where overly friendly strangers invite you for tea and bam, they disappear and you’re left with a bill with multiple digits to pay.
Dodgy taxis, or what locals call 黑车 (hēi chē) – literally translating to “black cars” – are also a thing. These are unlicensed taxis that camp at train stations and airports, with drivers shouting “taxi taxi” with a lot of confidence. But don’t be swayed – they often quote random inflated prices, don’t use meters, and if anything happens during your ride, there’s no way to trace them.
Stick to the official taxi queues or just use DiDi, China’s version of Grab. It’s safer, more reliable, and you won’t get charged a tourist premium.
Which are the more tourist-friendly cities in China?
We’ve rounded up some of the more tourist-friendly cities, but just because a city isn’t on this list doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting. These are just good entry points if you’re new to China or want something more fuss-free for your first trip.
Shanghai – For urban travellers & first-timers
Image credit: @灵灵子 via RED
If you love city vibes and want a “soft launch” into China, Shanghai is the place to be. You’ll find towering skyscrapers, clean metro lines, and cafes that look like they belong on your IG feed. There are English menus at most restaurants, and of course, tourists are everywhere. Locals here are used to foreigners, so asking for help is a lot less paiseh.
The city is also home to Shanghai Disneyland and will be launching 2 new theme parks – the Legoland Shanghai Resort in July 2025 and the Peppa Pig Outdoor Theme Park in 2027.
Book tickets to Shanghai Disneyland.
Beijing – For history junkies
Image credit: H. M. Mustahid via Google Maps
Beijing is China’s capital, where historical landmarks like the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace stand tall and proud. Most tourist attractions and train stations have English signage, and there are plenty of guided tours if you want to dive into centuries of imperial drama.
But it’s not just a history museum. Beijing also has a modern side, with sprawling shopping malls, aesthetic cafes, rooftop bars, and theme parks like Universal Studios Beijing. Locals may not all speak English fluently, but many are used to tourists and are happy to help with directions.
Book tickets to the Forbidden City and Universal Studios Beijing.
Chengdu – For foodies & panda lovers
Image credit: T via Google Maps
Chengdu is known for its slower pace of life, with old-school teahouses sitting right next to modern malls. It’s also the panda capital of the world. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a must-see, where you’ll get to watch these cute, fluffy creatures munch on bamboo and waddle around in their natural habitat.
Don’t forget to ask for a “mild” spice level if you’re planning to head to one of the hotpot spots, unless you don’t mind being stuck to the toilet bowl the next day – Sichuan spice can hit hard.
Book tickets to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
Hangzhou – For romantics & tea lovers
Image adapted from: @霍啤酒🍺（旅行版）via RED
For slow walks and main character vibes, head to Hangzhou. The scenery around West Lake is the stuff of Chinese poetry – you’ll want to stay for the golden hour magic at sunset when everything turns soft and glowy.
In case you didn’t know, Hangzhou is also known as the tea capital of China. Try the Longjing tea – one of the city’s most famous green teas – when you’re there.
But the best part is, Hangzhou is just a short high-speed train ride – between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours – from Shanghai, making it easy to slot into your itinerary.
Book tickets to the West Lake Daytime Cruise.
Xi’an – For ancient China history enthusiasts
Image adapted from: @狮山旅人 via RED, Will Dixon via Google Maps
Xi’an was once the starting point of the Silk Road and the capital for not 1, not 2, but 13 dynasties – so yes, it’s a haven for those interested in ancient China’s history.
The must-visit attraction here is Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum, where you’ll get up close and personal with the Terracotta Army. It’s a collection of thousands of life-sized clay soldiers that have been standing guard for over 2,200 years.
While there are plenty of attractions, guided tours, and transport options, English isn’t as commonly spoken here. Make sure you download a translation app if your Chinese CMI, or you only remember random words from your PSLE days.
Book tickets to see the Terracotta Army.
What apps should I download before going to China?
1. Alipay (支付宝)
Almost everything runs digitally in China – even buying street food or hopping on the metro can be done with just a scan of your phone. I brought zero cash with me on my recent trip to China, so it’s defo possible to survive without some ka-chings in your wallet with just Alipay (App Store | Google Play).
It’s a digital wallet that lets you link your credit or debit card to make payments. The catch is that there’s a 3% transaction fee for transactions above RMB200 (~S$35.57) paid with international cards.
Image credit: @alipay via Instagram
One way around it is to top up RMB into your Alipay wallet, where funds will be automatically deducted whenever you make a payment. But this is only possible if you have a friend or relative in China who can transfer funds to you from their own account. It’s a bit troublesome, but worth considering if you know someone who’s willing to help.
Image adapted from: Alipay
You’ll need to verify your account once you’re signed in. The app is available in English, so it’s quite easy to navigate. Tap on “Account”, then hit the settings icon at the top right corner. Go to “Account and Security” then tap on “Identity Information” and follow the steps. You’ll be asked to fill in your details, and wrap things up with a face verification.
To make a payment using Alipay, tap on “Scan” to scan the vendor’s QR code. Or, tap “Pay” on the next step to flash your own QR code if they’re doing the scanning. The amount will be automatically deducted from your Alipay wallet or linked card.
Besides payments, Alipay doubles up as an EZ-Link card in many cities. It’s recommended to set it up before your trip – here’s how:
Image credit: Alipay
Start by switching the location from Singapore to whichever city you’re visiting in China. Note that if you leave it as Singapore, you won’t be able to access the transport functions. Once you’ve changed it, tap on “Transport”.
Image adapted from: Alipay
Choose between Bus or Metro, then tap “Get now”. You’ll be taken to the next step, where you’ll need to tick the user authorisation box, and then tap “Agree and obtain card” to activate your transport pass.
Image adapted from: Alipay
Enter your payment password if you have it set up, then tap on “Use now” to access a QR code. This code works like your digital transport card, which you’ll have to scan at the metro’s gantry when entering and exiting the station. The fare gets auto-deducted from your Alipay wallet or linked card. It’s a straightforward process – no need to queue at the station for tickets or top up your transport card like it’s 2005.
Just ensure you repeat the process for every city you’re travelling to, as the QR code is unique to each city.
Image credit: International Web Portal of Beijing
But if you’re travelling to Beijing, consider getting the Beijing Pass, which costs RMB20 (~S$3.55). It works like an upgraded transport card, covering not just metro and buses, but can also be used to enter attractions and buy things like snacks or souvenirs.
Get your Beijing Pass at transport hubs like airports and various metro stations. Top-ups can be done conveniently on the SilkPass app (currently only available on the App Store).
2. WeChat (微信)
Use WeChat to contact the restaurant directly and make a reservation.
Image credit: WeChat
WeChat (App Store | Google Play) is your one-stop app – locals use it for everything, and we’re not even exaggerating. It primarily serves as an instant messaging app, so use it to chat directly with your hotel or restaurants you’re trying to get reservations at. Most businesses are responsive on the app – you won’t have to stress about calling and fumbling through Mandarin.
Image adapted from: WeChat
Like Alipay, you’ll need to link your credit card to use WeChat for payments, and yes, there’s also a 3% transaction fee for anything above RMB200 (~S$35.57). Tap on “Me” followed by “Pay and Services”. Then, tap on “Wallet” and “Bank Cards” to link your credit or debit card. Easy peasy.
Automated messages that brands send to their WeChat members – usually updates on promos, new arrivals, or member perks.
Image credit: WeChat
When you shop, you’ll often be asked to scan a QR code to join the brand’s membership on WeChat. It only takes a few seconds, and once you’re in, you’ll enjoy discounts and member-exclusive promos. Don’t shy away when the cashier offers – it’s a pretty common thing, and worth the few extra taps.
You’ll also notice that ordering food at restaurants in China often happens through WeChat mini programmes. Instead of waving down a server, just scan the QR code at your table, and it’ll open the restaurant’s mini programme where you can browse the menu, place your order, and pay – all within the app.
3. Da Zhong Dian Ping (大众点评)
Image credit: Da Zhong Dian Ping
Think of Da Zhong Dian Ping (App Store | Google Play) as China’s version of Chope. It’s where locals go to find top-rated restaurants, cafes, bubble tea joints, and everything in between.
You’ll find customer reviews, photos, and even ratings for taste, environment, and service, so you know exactly what you’re in for before stepping in. Plus, you can snag exclusive dining deals and make reservations directly through the app.
Image adapted from: Da Zhong Dian Ping
The app’s entirely in Chinese, so if you’re a non-Mandarin speaker… it’s trial-and-error time. Just look out for the star ratings and let the endless food pics guide you. Or if you want to be a bit more pro, follow our step-by-step guide. You’ll need to match some Chinese characters, but we’ve got you.
Da Zhong Dian Ping usually auto-detects the city you’re in, but if not, just manually change it to where you are on the top left corner of the homepage. After that, tap on “美食” (měi shí), which means food. See something that catches your eye? Tap into the restaurant page and look out for “优惠” (yōu huì) to check for any discounts. Scroll down to see reviews and pics from fellow diners.
Although the app is best known for food recs, you’ll also find attractions, things to do, and the best hotels to stay in.
4. Mei Tuan (美团)
Image credit: Mei Tuan
Since we’re already talking about food, let’s not forget Mei Tuan (App Store | Google Play) – China’s go-to food delivery app that can bring everything from Chinese skewers and bubble tea to pizza and even medication straight to your hotel.
Set up your account before your trip, since you’ll need to verify your mobile number via OTP. Once that’s sorted, payments are fuss-free and can be deducted straight from your Alipay wallet or linked card.
Image credit: Mei Tuan
Change your location to your accommodation’s address – make sure to copy and paste it in Chinese from your booking site to avoid any blur sotong moments. You’ll get a whole list of eateries and restaurants that deliver straight to your doorstep.
Image credit: Mei Tuan
There’s halal food on Mei Tuan too – just copy and paste “清真” (qīng zhēn) into the search bar, and the app will pull up halal-certified options near your location.
Image adapted from: WeChat
If you don’t speak Mandarin, there’s a little hack that’ll help you survive and order food delivery like a pro. Open the WeChat app, search for “美团” and then tap the 3 dots at the top right corner and select “Translate”.
The whole interface will switch to English, but don’t expect perfect translations. It’s good enough to place your order and satisfy those late-night cravings.
Delivery fees are usually just a couple of RMB. Ordering delivery in China is super affordable, has tons of variety, and many stalls are open till late. But the real MVPs are the robot butlers in hotels that quietly roll up to your room with your delivery. If not, your food will usually be placed at a designated pick-up spot in the lobby. Either way, it’s clear that food delivery is a lifestyle in China.
5. DiDi (滴滴)
Image credit: DiDi
DiDi (App Store | Google Play) is China’s version of Grab, but with cheaper fares and just as much convenience. It’s especially handy when you’re heading to places further out from the city centre, where public transport might be a hassle.
The app comes with an English version, so you can book your ride without getting lost in translation. Link your Alipay account and the fare will be auto-deducted after each ride – we’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: China is basically a cashless society.
One quick thing to note: it’s better to key in your locations in Chinese – copy and paste from the social media or navigation app you’re using, or your hotel’s booking page, if you don’t know how to type it out. The app sometimes struggles to pick up locations in English.
Image credit: DiDi
You’ll also get to choose from different ride tiers. Express is usually the cheapest – don’t expect an atas vehicle and service, but it gets you to your destination just fine. If you want more legroom and comfier seats, go for Premier or Luxe.
6. Amap (高德地图)
Image credit: Amap
Google Maps doesn’t quite cut it in China – it’s often blocked or shows outdated info. A more reliable alternative is Amap (App Store | Google Play), which locals use for everything from live traffic updates to bus and train schedules, and even indoor maps for big malls and stations.
It also comes with English language support, so navigating around won’t be as intimidating, even if you’re not familiar with the area.
Image adapted from: Amap
You’ll know exactly where to change train lines, and even which exit to take when you reach your stop.
7. Xiaohongshu (小红书)
Image credit: RED
Xiaohongshu (App Store | Google Play), also known as rednote or simply RED, is like China’s version of TikTok meets Pinterest. Locals use it to share hidden gems, things to do, food recs, and travel tips that go way beyond the usual touristy spots. Whether you’re looking for underrated attractions, cute cafes, or even how to survive a squat toilet, this app’s got your back.
And while it’s mainly used for China travel inspo, you’ll also find recommendations for places in Singapore too – so it’s worth keeping even after your trip.
Image credit: RED
Here are some useful phrases you can copy and paste into Xiaohongshu to uncover the best content:
| Chinese phrase | English translation | What does it refer to |
| 中国旅游攻略 | China travel guide/tips | Detailed guides, itineraries, tips, or recommendations about travelling in China.
It could include anything from must-see attractions, transportation advice, to local food and hidden gems. |
| XX美食推荐 (e.g. 成都美食推荐) | Chengdu food recommendations | Food tips and must-try dishes in a specific place. |
| 网红打卡地 | Trendy/viral photo spots | These places are usually well-known on social media and have become viral spots where people go to snap pictures for their feed. |
| 一日游攻略 | Day trip guide | A guide to help you make the most of your time in a particular place within a single day, highlighting the best activities, sights, and food to check out. |
| 踩雷XX (e.g. 踩雷景点) | Attractions to skip | It basically means “don’t do this” – where people share their oops moments to save you from making the same mistake. |
8. Baidu Translate (百度翻译)
Image adapted from: Baidu Translate
Baidu Translate (currently only available on the App Store) is the go-to translation app for your China trip. It’s got all the usual translation features, but with a couple of cool twists. You can snap photos of signs or menus for instant translation, or just speak and let the app do the work for you.
It also has an AI composition correction feature that lets you polish your sentences and make them sound way more natural.
The app supports a whopping 200 languages – definitely a must-download if you’re heading to China.
How to book train tickets in China?
Image credit: a t via Google Maps
Train travel is one of the most efficient ways to get around China, especially with its high-speed rail network that’s fast, efficient, and gets you from city to city without the stress of airports. If you’re confident in your Mandarin skills, you can try booking directly via the 12306 China Railway website.
But for the rest of us mere mortals, the safer bet is Trip.com. It’s available in English, accepts foreign credit cards, and saves you from the headache of navigating a fully Chinese interface. You’ll pay a small service fee, but it’s a fair trade for convenience.
Types of trains in China
Image credit: Trip.com
Not all trains in China are made equal. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- G & D trains: High-speed, modern, and punctual – great for long-distance journeys between major cities.
- Z trains: Express trains that are a little slower but still decent.
- T, K, and regular trains: These are the old-school ones, more affordable but can be slow and basic.
Seat classes on trains in China
Image adapted from: Trip.com
Seat-wise, high-speed trains typically have:
- Second class: Basic but comfortable.
- First class: Wider seats and more legroom.
- Business class: Super spacious and fancy, with seats that can be reclined to almost flat.
Image credit: Trip.com
And yes, you saw that right – business class is a tier above first class when it comes to trains – different from what you’d expect on flights.
More things to note when taking the train in China
You’re allowed up to 20kg of luggage, and the total dimensions of each item should be 160cm or less. That said, no one’s hovering around with a measuring tape – just don’t lug around extra-large bags.
Some stations still don’t accept e-tickets for foreigners, so you might have to collect a physical ticket at the counter. Also, most e-gates don’t recognise non-Chinese passports – you’ll need to look for a staff member at the manual lane for ID checks. Aim to be there at least an hour before departure to avoid a mad rush.
Get your China train tickets.
Tips for planning your China itinerary
Hongya Cave in Chongqing, China.
Image credit: @小红薯67F6C23E via RED
Now comes the fun part: planning your trip. Here are some quick tips to help you piece together an itinerary that won’t leave you running around like a headless chicken.
Don’t be too ambitious
China’s huge, and trying to cover too much in one trip will leave you drained. Stick to one region to cut down on long travel times.
Group cities by region
For example, it makes more sense to pair Shanghai with Hangzhou than with Xi’an, which is further inland.
List your must-sees first
Start with your non-negotiables, then work your way around them. It’ll help you plan more efficiently.
Book trains and flights early
Tickets, especially for high-speed trains, can sell out quickly during peak periods. It’s always better to lock things in ahead of time.
Check for China’s public holidays
Crowds can get intense during national holidays, so it’s worth checking the calendar before you pick your travel dates. Avoid travelling during major holidays like the Chinese New Year or the Golden Week – the latter being a week-long national holiday starting from 1st October to celebrate China’s National Day.
Download and set up all your apps before flying off
Most apps require SMS verification – you might not be able to receive these codes if you’re using a China SIM or eSIM.
Useful Mandarin phrases for your China trip
Not all of us are fluent in Mandarin, but knowing a few key phrases can go a long way in China. Save it, screenshot it, or just memorise the important ones to help you get by without sounding completely lost.
| Mandarin | Pronunciation | Meaning |
| 不好意思 | bù hǎo yì si | Excuse me/Sorry |
| 厕所在哪里？ | cè suǒ zài nǎ lǐ? | Where’s the toilet? |
| 多少钱？ | duō shǎo qián? | How much is it? |
| 太贵了！ | tài guì le! | Too expensive! |
| 有没有英文菜单？ | yǒu méi yǒu yīng wén cài dān? | Do you have an English menu? |
| 请问… | qǐng wèn… | Excuse me/May I ask… |
| 不要辣 | bù yào là | No spice, please |
| 我要微辣 | wǒ yào wēi là | I want it mildly spicy |
Bookmark this China travel guide for your next holiday
Congrats – you’ve made it to the end of our China travel guide. From handy apps to useful Mandarin phrases, we hope this helps make your trip a little less stressful. Safe travels and may your train transfers be smooth and your VPNs strong.
For more things to do in China, check out:
Cover image adapted from: @灵灵子 via RED, @alipay via Instagram, Trip.com
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