When visiting Beijing, you’re bound to use the city’s subway system. Beijing’s subway system is likely one of the largest and busiest in the world, but don’t worry—figuring out how to buy tickets and calculate fares is actually quite simple. This guide will help you get a clear understanding of…

Last Updated: May 2026 > In China, you don’t need to download 20 apps—just master three or four key ones, and you’ll navigate the city with ease. This is the world of “super apps”—a single app that integrates nearly all daily functions, including messaging, payments, ride-hailing, ticket booking, restaurant reservations,…

Last Updated: May 2026 > In China, showing up without a reservation is practically a wasted trip. This is no exaggeration. Almost all popular attractions in Beijing—from the Forbidden City to the Badaling Great Wall—have switched to a “reservation system.” This means you won’t be able to buy tickets at…

> “I felt like a tech-illiterate senior for the first time in my life.”   > —Excerpt from a Reddit comment that received over 2,000 upvotes If you’ve recently searched for “traveling to China” or “Beijing travel” on Reddit, you’ve likely come across a slew of posts discouraging people from…

Last Updated: May 2026 In China, not being able to pay “online” is like being without legs. Payment apps aren’t high-tech gadgets—they’re everyday tools for getting through life. The good news is: In 2026, the payment environment for international visitors is more welcoming than ever. The transaction limit has been…

Many foreign tourists visiting China for the first time have the same question: Can I use WeChat and Alipay without a Chinese phone number or SIM card? The answer is: Absolutely! As long as you prepare in advance, you can use core features like scanning QR codes for payments and…

Get Around Beijing: The Complete 2026 Beijing Transportation Guide for Foreign Tourists. It covers subways, buses, shared bicycles, ride-hailing, airport transfers, payment & app usage, and pro tips to avoid troubles, providing a one-stop solution for all your travel needs. 1. Beijing Subway—The Best Option for Traffic-Free Travel The subway…

If you’re planning a trip to China, you’ve probably heard of WeChat Pay—but can foreigners actually use it? Having lived in Beijing for over a decade, I can tell you with certainty: yes, you can—but the experience isn’t as seamless as you might expect. In this guide, I’ll walk you…

Still worried about payment issues while traveling in China? Concerned that you won’t be able to shop conveniently without a Chinese bank card? Actually, foreigners can easily use Alipay in China without linking a Chinese bank card. With just a smartphone, you can handle most payment scenarios—from shopping and dining…