Your China trip, decoded.
Practical guides written by locals. Not travel agencies.
China is amazing. But it's not easy.
Cash is dead
Even street vendors use QR codes. Without Alipay or WeChat Pay, you can't pay for anything.
The Great Firewall
Google, WhatsApp, Instagram — all blocked without a VPN. Set it up before you land.
Google Maps doesn't work
You need Amap or Baidu Maps. They're in Chinese. We'll walk you through it.
Read Before You Fly
5 essential guides that will save you hours of frustration
Alipay Setup
How to set up mobile payments as a foreign tourist. Step-by-step, with screenshots.
EssentialVPN Guide
Which VPNs actually work in China in 2025. Download and configure before departure.
EssentialMust-Have Apps
The 8 apps every visitor needs: WeChat, Amap, translation tools, and more.
EssentialSIM Card vs eSIM
Get connected the moment you land. Physical SIM, eSIM, or pocket WiFi — what's best.
RecommendedMaps & Navigation
Amap, Baidu Maps, and how to get around without Google. Includes saved location trick.
Recommended🐼 Chengdu
Pandas, hotpot, and the most relaxed city in China
Top Attractions
- Giant Panda Base
- Jinli Ancient Street
- Kuanzhai Alley
- Leshan Giant Buddha
Must-Eat Food
- Sichuan Hotpot
- Dan Dan Noodles
- Rabbit Head
- Mapo Tofu
Day Trips
- Leshan Giant Buddha
- Dujiangyan Irrigation
- Mount Qingcheng
More Cities
We're building detailed guides for these destinations
Why This Guide Is Different
Other travel sites
- ✕ Generic tips copied from other blogs
- ✕ Outdated payment advice ("just use cash")
- ✕ No VPN or firewall guidance
- ✕ Written by people who visited once
- ✕ Focus on tourist traps
ChinaTravel Guide
- ✓ Written by locals living in China
- ✓ Alipay/WeChat Pay walkthroughs
- ✓ Tested VPN recommendations
- ✓ Updated monthly for accuracy
- ✓ Where locals actually eat and go