Planning a trip to China for the very first time? You're in for a thrilling ride. This vast and diverse country is home to ancient wonders, futuristic cities, and some of the world’s most tantalising food. From exploring the Great Wall and the Terracotta Army to cruising the Li River or getting lost in bustling street markets, China offers experiences that are nothing short of unforgettable.

These tips are for those who have never been to China, wishing to explore the country by themself, or taking their loved ones for a vacation. Make sure to follow through to help your travel plan.

1. Visa-Free Entry (Until 31 December 2025)

Malaysian passport holders can enjoy visa-free entry into China for up to 30 days for purposes including tourism, business, visiting relatives and friends, or transit. This policy is effective from 1 December 2023 to 31 December 2025.

Key Requirements:

If you plan to stay longer than 30 days or engage in activities such as employment or study, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa in advance.

2. Applying for a Chinese Visa

For stays exceeding 30 days or for purposes not covered under the visa-free policy, you must apply for a visa through the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre in Malaysia.

Required Documents:

Processing Time & Fees:

China shines brightest in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasantly cool and the scenery bursts with either fresh blooms or golden leaves. These shoulder seasons offer comfortable conditions for sightseeing and fewer crowds at major attractions.

If you want to witness China at its most spirited, plan your visit during Chinese New Year (usually late January to mid-February). Expect dazzling lantern festivals, lively street parades, and rich cultural traditions on full display. Just be prepared for higher demand in transport and hotels — it's all part of the celebration.

China uses the Renminbi (RMB), commonly referred to as the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Notes are available in various denominations, and you’ll find that cash is still accepted, especially in smaller towns and traditional markets.

In cities, most locals rely heavily on mobile payment platforms like Alipay and WeChat Pay. While these were once exclusive to domestic users, international visitors can now link their foreign credit or debit cards to these apps for seamless cashless transactions. It’s worth setting them up before your trip or upon arrival to make payments easier throughout your stay.

Tipping Culture

Tipping isn’t a standard practice in China, particularly in taxis or local eateries. However, it’s always appreciated in more tourist-friendly environments or when you receive outstanding service — such as from private guides or hotel staff.

Money-Saving Tip

To keep your travel budget in check, consider booking your hotels, flights, and attraction tickets through Traveloka. Not only does it simplify your planning, but it often unlocks exclusive discounts and promotional deals — helping you stretch your yuan further while enjoying more.

While English is spoken in some major cities and tourist spots, Mandarin Chinese is the main language across China — and knowing a few simple phrases can go a long way. Locals truly appreciate the effort, even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect.

Useful Mandarin Phrases for Travellers:

Translation Tips:

Use Google Translate with offline mode enabled, or download Pleco, a popular Mandarin-English dictionary with built-in pinyin and stroke order tools.

Pro Tip: Always carry your hotel name and address written in Chinese to show taxi drivers or ask for directions — it can save you a lot of confusion!

Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafés and airports, but don’t rely on it completely — access to popular Western apps and sites is restricted by China’s firewall.

Apps like Google, WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook are blocked, so install a VPN (Virtual Private Network) before arriving in China to stay connected.

SIM Cards & eSIM Options:
For seamless internet access during your trip, grab a SIM card or eSIM via Traveloka, which partners with reliable providers such as GoHub, Simplify Trip, Sim2Go, Xplori, JavaMifi, and Frewie.

This way, you can land in China with instant access to maps, translation tools, and your itinerary — all in the palm of your hand.

China is a paradise for food lovers, but a little know-how will keep your tummy happy and healthy.

Tap Water:

Always stick to bottled water or use a portable filter if you're on the move.

Street Food:

Absolutely worth trying! Go for stalls with long queues and high turnover — they’re usually safer and more delicious.

Must-Try Dishes by Region:

Respect for tradition is deeply embedded in daily life. Knowing a few etiquette rules helps you blend in and avoid awkward moments.

Cultural Do’s:

Cultural Don’ts:

Your safety is a priority, and with a few precautions, your trip should go off without a hitch.

Travel Insurance:

Always a wise idea — and super simple to bundle during booking on Traveloka.

Air Quality:

Some cities, like Beijing, may experience smog — pack a mask, especially if you’re sensitive to pollution.

Pharmacies:

Easily found in cities, but bring a small kit with basic medications, tissues, and plasters just in case.

Emergency Numbers:

Start your journey through ancient palaces, tasting your way through night markets, or navigating modern cities with ease, China is a destination like no other. With so much to discover, planning ahead makes all the difference.

Best Hotels in China for Staycation

From flights, hotels, to attractions, Traveloka brings everything together in one place — so you can focus on the experience, not the logistics.

Fun Activities in China

Book with Traveloka today and start your unforgettable journey across China with total confidence.