Planning a first trip to China from Australia? There are a few things you should know before booking your flights. China differs from Australia in respect to methods of payment, internet access, visa requirements and travel.
Whilst Australians can currently travel to China on a no visa holding tourist visa for up to 30 days of travel, there are many aspects of travelling to China that Australians should be aware of prior to travelling.
Read on to learn more about safety, visas, cost, places to visit and ways to travel around China on your first trip.
Australian citizens holding ordinary passports can enter mainland China visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits and certain other approved purposes.
The current visa-free policy runs until 31 December 2026.
Before travelling, make sure you:
The Australian visa waiver for China has yet to be confirmed for 2027 by China.
Whether or not the Australian visa waiver to China will continue to be offered in 2027 has not been confirmed by China yet. We advise you to check the latest government travel advice before you book flights or other travel arrangements that are not refundable.
People who don’t qualify for visa free entry into China need to apply for the appropriate visa for their circumstances.
There are many tourists visiting China throughout the year, and we recommend you check the official travel advice before your departure to Australia.
We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution when traveling to China. Even greater caution is recommended for some areas in China.
Main issues include local laws that are strict, tourists falling victim to scams, tourists being detained for breaking the law, and other travel issues caused by weather.
For a safer trip:
Beijing remains a major tourist destination and is home to many famous sites such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China. When travelling to Beijing, it is best to take the same precautions that you would take when travelling in other parts of China.
Book your tickets through official channels. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. The presence of well-known tourist areas doesn’t necessarily mean that you will not get scammed there.
China is a large country. Trying to visit too many cities in one holiday can make your trip tiring.
For a first visit, choose destinations based on your interests and available time.
Beijing is a good starting point for travellers interested in Chinese history. Visit the Great Wall, Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven.
Allow at least three days for the main attractions.
Shanghai is known for its modern skyline, waterfront, shopping areas and historic neighbourhoods.
You can explore the Bund, visit Yu Garden and use the city's metro to reach major attractions.
Chengdu is a popular choice for travellers who want to see giant pandas and experience Sichuan cuisine.
It's also a useful starting point for exploring other destinations in Sichuan Province.
Zhangjiajie is famous for its tall sandstone formations, mountain views and walking trails.
Travellers interested in outdoor sightseeing can explore Tangora Travel's China tour options, including trips focused on natural attractions.
China relies heavily on mobile payments.
Many restaurants, shops, taxis and even some service providers (like hair dressers) accept payments using Alipay and WeChat Pay in China.
Down load the apps before you travel and try link your Australian bank card to them before you travel.
Some foreign issued cards may not function 100% for all transactions. You should also consider bringing some local currency with you for your trip (approximately RMB 500/ AUD 70-80 is sufficient for initial needs).
Additionally, check the international transaction fees that your bank will charge you before you travel.
Some websites and apps you normally use may not be able to be accessed whilst in mainland China.
These include Google, Gmail, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.
Be sure to set up an international roaming plan or a travel eSIM before you leave for China, and check what services will be covered.
Useful apps include:
Be sure to download your booking details and save your hotel’s Chinese address for offline access.
Most of China has pleasant spring and autumn seasons and is generally very comfortable for sightseeing.
Spring is from March to May. Autumn is from September to November.
Summer in cities such as Shanghai is very hot and humid, while the North can be very cold in winter. There is much variation in weather in different parts of China, so check weather forecast for the places you are visiting. It is worth noting that during Chinese public holidays, travel and attractions can become very crowded. It’s best to book in advance.
For Australians visiting China for the first time, a tour package can reduce the number of bookings you need to manage.
China has an extensive rail network, but arranging train tickets, hotels, attraction entry and transfers across several cities takes planning.
A guided tour may be useful if you're travelling with family, visiting remote destinations or prefer having transport organised.
Tangora Travel offers China travel and sightseeing options for visitors interested in cities, cultural attractions and natural scenery.
Before choosing a package, compare what's included. Check whether accommodation, transport, meals, entrance tickets and airport transfers are covered.
You should also ask about available travel discounts, departure dates and cancellation conditions.
Keep your first China itinerary manageable. Visiting two or three main destinations over ten days often gives you more time to enjoy each place.
Carry tissues and hand sanitiser, as not every public toilet provides supplies.
Drink bottled or properly boiled water rather than untreated tap water.
Book popular attractions and high-speed train tickets in advance, especially during holidays.
Check airline restrictions on power banks and lithium batteries before packing.
Finally, buy travel insurance suited to your itinerary and keep digital copies of important documents.
Before traveling to China from Australia, check your passport and confirm the required visas, read the current Australian Government Travel Advice for your intended travel. Ensure that you have purchased adequate Travel Insurance prior to your departure, as well as booking your accommodation. It is also advisable to download local payment methods and obtain internet access prior to your departure.
Many places now use mobile payment systems. Some international websites are currently blocked from being viewed in China. You may need to provide a copy of your passport to stay in a hotel or to travel (such as buying a train ticket). Exercising in China is restricted and subject to local laws which are subject to change. Check latest Travel Advice.
Bring ID, arrive early to get on the correct train, stick to the end of the line, show your passport at hotels and for car hire, save Chinese addresses on your phone, know basic Chinese characters, keep some cash on hand, use local mobile payment systems such as WeChat and Alipay, carry lots of tissues, avoid getting into taxis on the street and always check the cost before you get in, ask before taking photos of people, show proper respect at religious sites and follow signs, dress appropriately for temples, avoid public arguments with staff, check in advance for bookings to sites and attractions, protect yourself and your goods, be wary of invites to go to unknown addresses or places, understand local customs for eating out and check the contents of food before you eat it.
You can travel on a budget around China on AUD $1,000 for 7 days of travelling, although this does not include your international flights.
You can generally enter Hong Kong visa-free as an Australian passport holder and remain in Hong Kong for up to 90 days. Note that Hong Kong has separate immigration requirements from mainland China.
All ordinary passport holders from New Zealand can enter China on a 30-day visa-free entry until 31 December 2026.
For your first trip, choose destinations that suit your interests and allow enough time for each stop. A little preparation with visas, payments and transport will make travelling easier.
Browse Tangora Travel's available tours and activities to compare China travel options and ask about current discounts before booking.
"I've been on several tours with Outdoor, and each one has left me feeling rejuvenated and inspired. The attention to detail and the seamless organization make them my go-to choice for outdoor adventures."
lovely Tourist
