Traveling to China is not just about buying plane tickets and booking hotels. This country has regulations, cultural norms, and digital systems that are quite different from Indonesia. Many travelers are surprised because some things that are “normal” in other countries simply don’t work in China.
To make your trip smooth and hassle-free, here are the important things you must prepare before going to China.
1. Passport and Chinese Visa
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your departure date. In addition, almost all Indonesian citizens are required to obtain a Chinese visa before entering the country.
Documents you usually need include:
- Original passport
- Visa application form
- Photo according to requirements
- Round-trip flight tickets
- Hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter
Apply for your visa well in advance, as the process can take some time.
2. Internet Access and Important Apps
China blocks many popular applications such as:
- YouTube
Without preparation, you may lose access to communication and navigation.
Things you should prepare:
- International SIM card or eSIM
- VPN (install and test it before departure)
- Offline maps
3. Must-Have Apps to Install
Almost all daily activities in China are digital. Before you leave, install these essential apps:
- WeChat → messaging, payments, QR code scanning
- Alipay → main payment method
- Didi → ride-hailing service (similar to Grab)
- Baidu Maps or Apple Maps → navigation
Make sure payment apps are already connected to your card or balance.
4. Payment Methods: Don’t Rely on Cash
China is largely a cashless society. Many shops, restaurants, and even transportation services do not accept cash.
What you need to prepare:
- Activate WeChat Pay or Alipay
- Link them to an international card
- Bring a small amount of cash as a backup
5. Language and Communication
Not everyone in China speaks English, especially in smaller cities.
Tips to avoid confusion:
- Save your hotel address in Chinese characters
- Use a translation app
- Screenshot important information (hotel details, stations, destinations)
6. Cultural Norms and Etiquette
To avoid awkward situations, understand some local habits:
- Queuing culture may differ from what you’re used to
- Speaking loudly in public is fairly common
- Avoid taking photos of people or certain facilities without permission
Respecting local culture will make your trip more comfortable.
7. Food and Special Dietary Needs
For Muslim travelers or those with dietary restrictions:
- Look for halal restaurants before traveling
- Bring instant food as a backup
- Use halal restaurant finder apps
Always check food labels, as most are not written in English.
8. Transportation and Mobility
Public transportation in China is very advanced but can be confusing for first-time visitors.
Things to prepare:
- Learn metro and high-speed train routes
- Save digital tickets and schedules
- Arrive early at stations (security checks can be strict)
9. Prohibited or Restricted Items
Some items may be confiscated if carried improperly, such as:
- High-capacity power banks without clear labels
- Certain medications
- Books or sensitive content
Always check regulations before packing.
10. Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost belongings
- Trip cancellations
The cost is relatively low compared to the risks involved.
Conclusion
Proper preparation before traveling to China greatly affects the smoothness of your journey. With complete documents, secure internet access, ready-to-use apps, and an understanding of local culture, you can enjoy China without stress or confusion.
China is indeed unique, but with the right preparation, your travel experience can be exciting, safe, and unforgettable.