TIME IN CHINA >> FAQs >> Before Travel

Before Travel

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Make Travel Plan

Q: When to go?

A:China is a year-round destination. Generally, the months of April, May, early June, September, October and early November are ideal time for travel anywhere in China.

Q: What are top 10 must see destinations in china?

A:The Top 10 Must See Destinations in China are Beijing, Xi’an, Guilin, Shanghai, the Yangtze River, Lhasa in Tibet, Jiuzhaigou in Sichuan Province, Lijiang, Zhangjiajie and the Silk Road.

Q: What months in China are considered Peak Season (High Season), Shoulder Season, and Low Season?

A:Generally, May, September and October are considered as the Peak Season, March, April, June, July, August, and November are the Shoulder Season and January, February, and December are the Low Season. And also, each city, attraction and itinerary has its own peak season, shoulder season and low season.

Luggage

Q: What to pack?

A:Since most of the daily articles could be bought in China. So, just pack as little as possible. It is recommended to bring some casual clothes, a coat and washable clothing, a sturdy, comfortable pair of walking shoes. Take some toiletries and medical supplies such as Vitamins, Aspirin and carry-on items like camera.

Visa

Q: How to apply for a tourist visa?

A:The applicant can handle the visa personally, or entrust other people, travel agency and visa handling agency to transact the visa he wants according to different consular jurisdiction of the embassies or consulate-general. In applying for visas, aliens shall provide such pertinent information as requested and complete the following procedures: 1. Present valid passports or replacement certificates; 2. Fill in visa application forms and submit recently taken two-inch half-length, bareheaded and full-faced photos; 3. Submit for examination papers supporting the application for entry into or transit through

Q: Where to apply for a visa?

A:For entry to China, aliens shall apply for visas to Chinese diplomatic missions, consular posts or other foreign-base agencies authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China.

Q: Do I need a visa for visiting Hong Kong?

A:

No visa or entry permit is required for any purpose if you hold any of the following travel documents:  

 

*         Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Passport,
*         British National (Overseas) Passport,
*         Hong Kong Certificate of Identity,
*         Hong Kong Re-entry permit (for entry from the Mainland of China and the region of Macau only),
*         Hong Kong Seaman's Identity Book,
*         Hong Kong Document of Identity for Visa Purposes provided that the document is valid or the holder's limit of stay in Hong Kong has not expired.
*         Travel documents bearing one of the following endorsements: "Holder's eligibility for Hong Kong permanent identity card verified."
"The holder of this travel document has the right to land in Hong Kong. (Section 2AAA, Immigration Ordinance, Cap. 115, Laws of Hong Kong)"
*         Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card.
HKSAR visa requirements for the following foreign countries / territories: 
 

Q: Is a visa necessary for me to travel Macau?

A:Non-visa is required if the applicants are the citizens of 53 countries including US, Canada, Portugal. Citizens of other countries may apply for the visa on arrival after they arrive in Macau at the Macau Airport. For more details, please refer to the website of Identification Department of Macau: http://www.dsi.gov.mo

Health and Safety

Q: Is it safe for foreigners traveling in China?

A:In general, China is one of the safest countries in the world for travelers. Most Chinese people are very friendly to foreigners and will go out of their way to help you. However, beware of pick-pockets. Watch your wallet and passport. The most common crime committed against foreigners is theft.

Q: What lawful rights and interests and obligations are foreigners entitled to in China?

A:

The General Principles of Constitution of PRC indicate definitely that:

*         The Chinese Government shall protect the lawful rights and interests of aliens on Chinese territory. Freedom of the person of aliens is inviolable.
*         Aliens in China must abide by Chinese laws and may not endanger the state security of China, harm public interests or disrupt public order.
*         Aliens who hold valid visas or residence certificates may travel to places open to aliens as designated by the Chinese Government.
*         Aliens desiring to travel to places closed to aliens must apply to local public security organs for travel permits.

Q: Are there any health requirements to travel to China? Do I need vaccinations to enter China?

A:Travelers are advised to check with their doctors before visiting China. A Health Declaration form will be required to be completed upon arrival. Generally, no immunizations are required for short-term travelers, but if you come from an epidemic area, you have to produce certificates of vaccination against certain infectious diseases, a health certificate or other relevant documents.

Q: Do I need to bring my medical record?

A:A medical record is recommended to bring with you, especially for those who have some diseases. A complete medical record should include your name, blood type, medical history, vaccination record, allergies, medications you are currently taking, your doctor's name, phone number, emergency contact name and phone number, and your insurance company's name, address and phone number.

Q: What to do in an emergency, such as: luggage loss, theft or damage?

A:

Chinais a relatively safe country, though emergency happen sometimes. In the case of emergency or other disturbances, you should promptly call the police and similarly contact your guide for assistance.

Emergency Contact Phone Numbers:
*         Theft: 110
*         Fire: 119
*         Traffic Accident: 122
*         Ambulance: 120 or 999
These numbers you can dial free of charge from any phone, including public IC card and coin phones.