China travel advice

Explore our complete guide to China with the latest travel advice for travellers and holidaymakers including official updates and local travel tips for China.

How to make the most of a trip to Shanghai, China © Ipadimages - Dreamstime.com
How to make the most of a trip to Shanghai, China © Ipadimages - Dreamstime.com

China travel guide - essential info

Below is a beginner's guide to China with essential travel facts such as dominant language spoken, typical flight time from the UK and the local currency. You can also check whether visas are required and what plug adapter you need to pack.

China - quick facts
Time difference UK +8 hours
Language(s) Chinese
Currency Chinese Yuan
Electricity A + C + I plug (220V)
Driving side Right
Visa Yes

Why visit China?

Considering a holiday to the China? Here are some of the very good reasons it makes such a wonderful holiday destination be it for culture or nature to ensure you get the most out of your 2024/2025 escape.

  • Culture vultures
    Culture
  • Nature lovers - nature & wildlife
    Nature

China tourist information

✝ = requirements for UK travellers.

Travelling to China?
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China weather

  Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Maximum daytime temperature °C
Hours of sunshine (daily)
Days with some rainfall

The China weather guide shows long term monthly averages for Beijing.

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China travel advice

Check the latest travel advice on visiting China from official government sources (in english) from around the world including entry requirements and travel restrictions.

Learn more about the current safety and security risks from terrorism, natural disasters and more. Read about the local laws and customs to consider when travelling around China.

Note: UK FCDO - UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

FCDOFCDO travel advice

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China travel health

Find out more about staying safe when travelling to China with the latest guidance on required vaccinations and recommended medication to take with you.

Check out the general travel tips for staying safe and healthy in China, risks of preventable diseases and what to pack.

Note: CDC - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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China covid live updates

Check the latest live updates on Covid-19 in China with the vaccination requirements, current available statistics and up-to-date travel advice from government agencies.

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China travel features

Do you want to learn more about China? Read our latest features covering travel tips and insider destination guides on where to go and what to do in China.

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China FAQs

Read our frequently asked questions about travelling to China including the current entry restrictions, covid rules, driving side, electrical plugs used and much more.

Are there entry restrictions to China due to Covid-19?

China is open for tourism from the UK.

Negative PCR or NAAT test results required for arrivals from the UK.

Check out National Health Commission, People's Republic of China for more information.

Do I need to quarantine in the UK if I travel from China?

You do not need to quarantine on arrival in the UK from China. The UK no longer requires a passenger locator form, Covid-19 test or proof of vaccination.

What is the time difference between China and the UK?

The time difference between China and the UK is UK time+8 hours.

What is the main language spoken in China?

The main language spoken in China is Chinese.

Learn a language for China with Rosetta Stone*, Mondly* and Busuu*.

What is the currency in China?

The currency in China is the Chinese Yuan (CNY).

Send money to China with Wise.com* and World Remit*.

Which plugs are used in China?

China uses electrical plug type A + C + I (220 Volts).

Which side of the road do they drive on in China?

They drive on the right side of the road in China.

Transport options for China

Do you need a visa for China?

Yes, UK passport holders do need a visa to enter China.

Check China visa requirements for all passport holders with VisaHQ* and iVisa.com*.

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