China
East Asia · Mandarin Chinese · Yuan (Renminbi)
Accept cards and gifts with both hands, fight for the bill at least once, and never stick your chopsticks upright in the rice.
Today in China
No China stories in today's wires — read the global briefing.
5 phrases you need in China
- Hello你好nee-HOW
- Goodbye再见dzai-JYEN
- Please请ching
- Thank you谢谢syeh-syeh
- Excuse me不好意思boo-how-EE-suh
The Trovlr app drills all 8 China phrases with audio, Duolingo-style. Get the app →
Know before you go
connectivity
Set up a VPN and download maps before you land; Google, WhatsApp, and Instagram are blocked. Alipay and WeChat now accept foreign cards, so link one before arrival.
money
China is nearly cashless; pay with Alipay or WeChat Pay even at street stalls. Keep a little cash as backup since some vendors no longer carry change.
transport
High-speed rail beats flying for most routes under 1,000 km; book on the official 12306 app and bring your passport for ticket gates.
tipping
Do not tip; it is not expected anywhere and can cause confusion in restaurants and taxis.
Get China updates
News, fees, and rule changes for China — in your inbox as they break.