Beijing

Passport & Visa

Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your entry date. Check current visa requirements for your nationality well in advance.

Local Registration

Foreign visitors may need to register their stay with local authorities within 24 hours of arrival, especially if staying in non-hotel accommodations. Your accommodation provider usually assists with this.

Currency

The official currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY), also known as Renminbi (RMB). Bills come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100.

Payment Methods

Mobile payments via Alipay and WeChat Pay are dominant. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and some tourist-oriented shops, but cash is still useful for smaller vendors.

Subway System

Beijing has an extensive and efficient subway network covering most major attractions. It's the fastest and most cost-effective way to travel.

Buses

Buses are also available but can be slower due to traffic. They offer wider coverage in some areas.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis are readily available. Ride-sharing apps like Didi are popular and often more convenient. Ensure the driver uses the meter.

July Climate

July is typically the hottest month in Beijing, with high temperatures often reaching 30-33°C (86-91°F). It's also part of the rainy season, so expect frequent, often heavy, downpours.

Humidity & Air Quality

Humidity levels are high, making it feel warmer. Air quality can vary; check daily forecasts. It's advisable to stay hydrated and seek air-conditioned spaces during peak heat.

Greetings

A slight nod or a handshake is common. Avoid overly familiar physical contact. Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases like 'Ni Hao' (Hello) is appreciated.

Dining

It's customary to wait for elders or hosts to start eating. Using chopsticks is standard; learn basic etiquette. Tipping is not customary in most restaurants.

Public Behavior

Maintain a moderate volume in public spaces.

Tap Water

Tap water in Beijing is generally not recommended for drinking directly. Always opt for bottled water or boiled water provided by establishments.

Local Cuisine

Beijing offers diverse culinary experiences, from Peking Duck to dumplings and noodles. Street food is abundant but choose vendors with high turnover and good hygiene.

General Safety

Beijing is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas, to prevent petty theft.

Scams

Be cautious of common tourist scams, such as the 'tea ceremony' or 'art student' scams, where overly friendly strangers may lead you to expensive venues.

Emergency Contacts

Keep emergency numbers handy: Police (110), Ambulance (120), Fire (119).

Pharmacies

Pharmacies are common, especially in commercial areas. Look for signs like '药店' (yàodiàn). Many offer basic medications and health products.

Common Ailments

Be prepared for potential travel-related issues like digestive upset or colds. Carry a basic first-aid kit with personal medications.

Medical Care

Major hospitals are equipped to handle emergencies. For non-emergencies, consider clinics or your hotel's assistance.

Stroller Accessibility

Major attractions like the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square are vast but can have uneven paths. Some subway stations have elevators, but not all.

Family Dining

Many restaurants are family-friendly. Look for places with varied menus. Meal times are generally earlier than in some Western countries.

Daypack Essentials

Carry a comfortable daypack for daily essentials: water bottle, snacks, camera, portable charger, sunscreen, and a small umbrella.

Clothing

Pack light, breathable clothing suitable for hot and humid summer weather. Comfortable walking shoes are crucial as you'll be doing a lot of walking.

Valuables

Keep valuable items secure. Consider a money belt or a secure inner pocket for passports and cash.

Navigation

Download offline maps of Beijing (e.g., Google Maps with offline areas, Baidu Maps if you can read Chinese) for navigation without data.

Communication

Consider a VPN if you need access to blocked international sites. Translation apps can be helpful for communication.

Ride-Sharing & Food Delivery

Apps like Didi (for transport) and Meituan/Ele.me (for food delivery) are widely used by locals.