A few useful notes
before you go.
Clear answers to the decisions that shape your trip. Start with your next question, rather than another list of everything to see.
Make Your First China Trip Easier to Navigate
Build a first China itinerary around entry checks, a workable first day, transport, connectivity, and backup plans.
Check the Rules That Apply to Your Passport
Check China entry requirements for your passport, travel purpose, route, and dates, and prepare the documents you need before departure.
Build a Payment Plan with a Backup
Set up a primary payment method and practical fallbacks for shops, transport, meals, and unexpected app verification.
Stay Reachable Even When Data Drops
Choose a phone plan, prepare maps and addresses offline, and keep a second way to communicate if data fails.
Plan the First Hour Before You Land
Reduce arrival stress with an address-ready plan, confirmed transport choices, and a backup for delays or poor connectivity.
How Many Days Do You Need in Shanghai?
Allow three full days for a first Shanghai visit, or four with Suzhou. Compare one, two, three and four sightseeing days with example routes and realistic arrival times.
Choose the Day Trip That Matches Your Priorities
Compare Suzhou and Hangzhou by scenery, interests, travel effort, and the amount of time you can give the day.
Choose the Amount of Help That Fits Your Day
Decide when independent exploring is enough and when a guide or local arrival help may solve a specific planning gap.
A great trip starts with your kind of day.
Bring your ideas, your must-sees, or just the things you’re unsure about. Turn them into a clear travel brief.