What should I do first?
Connect your phone, withdraw or exchange a small amount of RMB if needed, reach the verified accommodation address, check in with the entry passport and confirm that registration has been completed.
10 · Arrival plan
Your first 24 hours in China
A calm arrival is mostly about connectivity, payment, transport and completing the correct accommodation registration.
Source-checked travel orientation · Reviewed 19 October 2026What should stay accessible?
Keep the passport, arrival address in Chinese, onward booking, insurance contact and one payment backup accessible. Do not place every payment card and all cash in the same bag.
Arrival plan
Before you rely on this
- Phone connected and essential apps working
- A working payment method plus backup
- Accommodation registration completed
- Next-day plan kept intentionally light
Reviewed 19 October 2026
Official references
National Immigration Administration · Accommodation registration for foreign nationalsPeople's Bank of China · Payment guide for overseas visitors
General travel information only. Rules, availability and individual eligibility can change; verify high-stakes details with the competent authority for your passport, date and itinerary.
WhatsAppScan with WhatsApp to message ChinaMaxxing
WeChatScan with WeChat