Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a trip to China? We’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you prepare for your adventure.
Planning & Booking
📋 How far in advance should I book?
Peak Season (April, May, September, October, Chinese New Year): 3-6 months in advance
Shoulder Season (March, June, November): 2-3 months in advance
Off-Season (December, January, February): 1-2 months in advance
💰 What’s included in the tour price?
Included: Accommodation, professional guide, private transportation, entrance fees, daily breakfast, airport transfers, 24/7 support
Excluded: International flights, visa fees, personal expenses, optional activities, travel insurance (unless specified)
📝 What information do you need to plan my trip?
Essential: Travel dates, number of travelers, destinations, budget range, travel style preference
Helpful: Special interests, physical limitations, dietary restrictions, accommodation preferences, must-see attractions
Visa & Documentation
🛂 Do I need a visa to visit China?
Visa-Free Programs: 144-hour visa-free transit in Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou/Shenyang, 6-day visa-free for cruise passengers to Shanghai, visa-free for visitors to Hainan province (certain nationalities)
Regular Visa: Most travelers need a tourist visa (L-visa). We provide comprehensive assistance with your application.
📄 What documents do I need to apply for a Chinese visa?
Valid passport (at least 6 months validity), completed visa application form, passport-sized photo, proof of round-trip flight booking, hotel reservations or invitation letter, travel itinerary, proof of sufficient funds
⏰ How long does it take to get a Chinese visa?
Standard: 4-5 business days | Express: 2-3 business days | Same-Day: 1 business day (where available)
Recommendation: Apply at least 1 month before your travel date
Travel Practicalities
🌡️ When is the best time to visit China?
Best Seasons: Spring (April-May): Mild weather, blooming flowers | Autumn (September-October): Comfortable temperatures, clear skies
Seasonal Highlights: Winter: Harbin Ice Festival | Summer: Warm weather, school holidays | Cherry Blossom (March-April)
💱 What currency is used in China?
Currency: Chinese Yuan (RMB/CNY) | Exchange Rate: Approximately 1 USD ≈ 7 RMB
Payment Methods: Cash, WeChat Pay, Alipay (dominate daily transactions), Credit cards (accepted in major hotels and restaurants)
📱 Will I have internet access?
Internet: Most hotels offer free Wi-Fi, mobile data available via local SIM cards or international roaming
Blocked Websites: Google, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube are blocked. Solutions: Use VPN services, download apps before traveling
Accommodation & Transportation
🏨 What kind of hotels do you use?
Boutique (3-4 Star): Charming, characterful properties with local style, prime locations, good value
Premium (4 Star): High-quality international standards, excellent service, modern amenities
Luxury (5 Star): World-class properties, premium amenities and services, exceptional locations
🚗 What type of transportation is provided?
Private Tours: Private vehicle (sedan, van, or bus based on group size), professional driver, air-conditioned, flexible schedule
Group Tours: Private bus for group, professional driver, intercity flights or high-speed trains as needed
Health & Safety
💉 What vaccinations do I need?
Required: No specific vaccinations are required for China
Recommended: Routine vaccines (measles, flu, etc.), Hepatitis A and B, typhoid (for extended stays or rural areas)
🛡️ Is China safe for tourists?
General Safety: China is generally very safe for tourists, low violent crime rates, pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas
Emergency Services: Police: 110 | Fire: 119 | Ambulance: 120
Cultural Etiquette
🙏 What cultural customs should I know?
Dos: Use both hands when giving/receiving items, remove shoes when entering homes/temples, dress modestly at religious sites, try local foods and customs
Don’ts: Don’t stick chopsticks vertically in rice (funeral rite), don’t tip in restaurants (not customary), don’t touch people’s heads, don’t discuss sensitive political topics
Tour Specifics
👥 How large are your tour groups?
Private Tours: Just you and your travel companions, guide and driver dedicated to your group, complete flexibility
Group Tours: 6-15 people maximum, intimate social experience, professional guide throughout
🎯 Can I customize the itinerary?
Private Tours: 100% customizable! You control destinations, duration, pace, activities, accommodation style, special interests
Group Tours: Limited customization – choose from pre-designed itineraries, optional activities available
Payment & Cancellation
💳 What payment methods do you accept?
Accepted: Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), Bank Transfer, PayPal (certain regions), WeChat Pay/Alipay (Chinese residents)
Payment Terms: 30% deposit to confirm booking, remaining balance 30 days before departure
❌ What’s your cancellation policy?
>30 days before departure: Full refund (small administrative fee)
15-30 days before departure: 50% refund
<15 days before departure: No refund (flexible options available with travel insurance)
Still Have Questions?
Our travel experts are happy to answer any questions and help you plan your perfect China adventure!
📧 Email: service@chinawondertour.net | 📱 WhatsApp: +86 xxx xxxx xxxx | 💬 Live Chat: Available on our website