China is a country of superlatives with 5,000 years of history, futuristic megacities, and a culture that connects East and West. Every region offers unique experiences.
Sights
Beijing impresses with the Forbidden City, Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace. Shanghai showcases modern China with the Pudong skyline and the historic Bund promenade.
Xi’an is famous for the Terracotta Army. Guilin offers spectacular karst landscapes. Chengdu is the home of the pandas. Hong Kong (SAR) blends East and West perfectly.
Tipping
Tipping is uncommon in traditional China. In international hotels and restaurants, 10% is sometimes expected. Tour guides: 50-100 Yuan per day. Massage: 10-20 Yuan. In Hong Kong, 10% is standard.
Traffic rules
Highway: 80-120 km/h
Rural roads: 60-80 km/h
Urban areas: 30-70 km/h
Expressway: 100-120 km/h
Important: Right-hand traffic. International driving permits are not recognized – Chinese license required. Alcohol limit: 0.2 per mille (very strict).
Currency & Payment
China uses the Yuan (CNY). WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate – QR code payments everywhere. Cash is less frequently accepted. Foreign cards often do not work – Cash is important for tourists.
注意 (Attention): VPN needed for Google, Facebook, WhatsApp! WeChat is essential.
Important phone numbers
Emergency: 110 (police), 119 (fire service), 120 (ambulance)
Foreigner hotline: 12308
Beijing United Family: +86 10 5927 7000
Taxi service: 96103
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