The Basics
Currency
RMB (Renminbi), also called yuán or kuài (¥/CNY). 1 Yuan = 10 Jiao = 100 Fen (Fen is rarely used in daily life).
Exchange Rate Tip
Check current rates before arrival; as of 2025, roughly 1 USD ≈ 7 CNY.
Time Zone
UTC+8 (Beijing Time, no Daylight Saving Time—set your watch once!).
Language
Mandarin (Putonghua) is the official language. English is spoken in major tourist areas, but learning basic phrases like xièxie (thank you) and nǐ hǎo (hello) will make a big difference.
Payment Methods
Foreign credit/debit cards work in hotels, malls, and tourist spots, but cash (small bills: ¥10/¥20) and mobile payments (*Alipay/WeChat Pay*) dominate for street food, markets, and taxis.
Driving/Cycling
Right-hand side (same as the US and China’s mainland).
ID Requirements
Always carry your passport or a photocopy for hotel check-ins, attraction tickets, and police checks (not required 24/7, but essential for key services).
Measurements
Metric system (kilometers for distance, Celsius for temperature—35°C = 95°F in summer!).
Costs
Comparable to Western metropolises (hotels and restaurants can be pricey), but services like spas (¥200-500) and dental care are significantly cheaper than in the West (up to 50% less).
Pro Tip for Western Travelers
Download a VPN before arrival to access Google, WhatsApp, and other blocked apps. China’s Great Firewall restricts some Western platforms, but VPNs ensure connectivity.