China travel FAQ
Last checked 2026-10-17 · Answers drawn from our dated practical guides
Start with a short answer, then open the full guide for steps, official sources and current-check reminders.
Can I buy a ticket at the gate today?
The official booking page says no same-day tickets. Choose a later available date in the official channel.
Read the tickets guide and sources →Can I book with my passport?
Yes. The Palace Museum lists valid passports for non-mainland visitors. Bring the same original document used in the reservation.
Read the tickets guide and sources →My overseas card will not link. What next?
Check the app’s supported brands and exact error, then contact the payment provider or card issuer. Use another accepted card or payment option while it is unresolved.
Read the payments guide and sources →I cannot receive a code.
Check the phone number and country code registered with the app and issuer. Keep the service that receives SMS available abroad; a travel data plan may not receive those messages.
Read the payments guide and sources →Is the People’s Square building free right now?
Reserve in advance for the stated special-exhibition period. Visitors with disabilities may enter free with valid documentation; check the museum’s current notice for your date.
Read the museums guide and sources →Where are the permanent galleries?
The museum directs visitors to Shanghai Museum East during the People’s Square special-exhibition period.
Read the museums guide and sources →Does every travel eSIM receive SMS?
No. Check the exact plan’s terms with its provider. A data-only plan may not receive codes sent to your existing phone number.
Read the connectivity guide and sources →Will roaming make every app work?
The provider’s routing and access differ by plan. Ask it about the services you need and keep an offline fallback.
Read the connectivity guide and sources →Is the online arrival card free?
Yes. NIA says its official online arrival-card service is free and warns about paid counterfeit sites.
Read the arrival guide and sources →What is the official link?
Follow NIA’s notice to https://s.nia.gov.cn/ArrivalCardFillingPC/ and check the address before entering details.
Read the arrival guide and sources →Can I stay anywhere in China for ten days?
No. NIA limits the policy to designated ports and permitted stay areas. Check your full route on its official list.
Read the entry rules guide and sources →Does a return ticket to the same country count?
The policy requires transit to a third country or region. Ask NIA about a route that does not clearly meet that description.
Read the entry rules guide and sources →For changing travel rules, verify the linked official source again before booking or travelling.