How to Pay in China as a Tourist: Alipay, WeChat Pay, Cards and Cash
I used Alipay and WeChat Pay throughout China; learn how foreign travelers can link international cards, pay by QR code, avoid common failures and keep reliable backups.
Practical Travel Advice
Best VPN for China: 12 Checked, What Still Works in October 2026 & Backup Plan
See which VPNs still work in China in August 2026, based on our real-world independent testing on hotel Wi-Fi and mobile data, plus the best backup setup.
Best China Travel Apps (2026): What I Used & What to Set Up Before You Fly
The China travel apps I used for independent travel, with the exact setup order for Alipay, WeChat, Amap, Didi, Trip.com, eSIMs, VPNs and translation.
China Airport Transfers: The Easiest Way From Each Airport to the City
From Beijing and Shanghai to Xi’an and Chengdu, I compare trains, taxis and private pickups, including when paying for a transfer is worth it.
Beijing to Xi’an Train vs Flight: Best Way to Travel + Booking Tips
Beijing to Xi’an train vs flight: compare high-speed train times, ticket prices, stations and door-to-door travel time before choosing which option really makes sense.
How to Buy Train Tickets in China: 12306 vs Trip.com
Book China train tickets for visitors with my firsthand guide to 12306 vs Trip.com, passport verification, hidden fees and booking traps most travelers overlook.
China Train Classes Explained: Which Seat or Sleeper Should You Book?
Compare China train classes, including second, first and business class, hard vs soft sleeper, berth choices and no-seat tickets, with advice from real journeys.
National Museum of China: My 60–90 Minute Route
How to visit the National Museum of China in 60–90 minutes with this practical guide to tickets, WeChat booking, must-see galleries, and how to pair it with Tiananmen.
Tiananmen Square Guide: How to Book, Enter, and Visit in Beijing
How to plan your Tiananmen Square visit with reservation tips, best entrance, security advice, timing, and the easiest way to pair it with the Forbidden City.
How to Plan a Trip to China (2026): The First-Timer Planning Blueprint
Learn how to plan a trip to China step by step, from visas and timing to routes, payments, apps, transport, budget, and the smartest way to travel independently.