Guides
Long-form city guides for your first China trip
For travelers who like to read the whole thing before they board. Start with the China primer, then layer on Shanghai and the easy Hangzhou day trip. Each guide ends with a checklist generator tuned to that city.
China guide
China
Visa, payments, connectivity, transport, and a calm first 24 hours. The foundation every first-time visitor needs.
- Visa & entry
- Alipay / WeChat
- eSIM vs VPN
Shanghai guide
Shanghai
PVG vs Hongqiao, where to stay on a first visit, and how to leave the airport without getting overcharged.
- PVG · SHA
- Stay zones
- Day 1 anchor
Hangzhou guide
Hangzhou
The hour-long train, the West Lake walk that actually works, and whether one day is enough or you need an overnight.
- High-speed rail
- West Lake
- Tea villages
Rather not read it all?
Get a pre-arrival checklist built for your dates and city.
Two minutes, reordered by what you said you're worried about. Free, email optional.
Visa rules, payment-app behavior, and connectivity change. Verify time-sensitive items with official sources before departure.