Answer: For flights arriving at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU), the standard procedure for foreign arrivals is still primarily paper-based. You will receive a China Arrival Card on the plane from your airline, which you must fill out and present at immigration. This card records your personal information, flight details, and intended address in China.

Answer: The journey between Xiahe (home to the Labrang Monastery) and Langmusi is a popular route for travelers exploring the Tibetan areas of Gansu and Sichuan provinces. However, public transport options are limited and schedules can vary depending on the season and local demand.

Answer: It is possible to do a day trip from Hong Kong to Guangzhou, but it requires careful planning due to travel time and border crossing procedures. Guangzhou is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours from Hong Kong by high-speed train, depending on departure point and border clearance times.

Answer: Your one-day plan for Lantau Island is feasible, but here’s how to best handle transportation for the later part of your itinerary.

Answer: Including Beijing in your 12-day Shanghai trip is definitely feasible, but it depends on your priorities, pace, and budget. The high-speed train between Shanghai and Beijing is fast, convenient, and comfortable, taking around 4.5–6 hours one way, but it does add travel costs and eats into your sightseeing time.

Answer: If you are looking to improve your Chinese with a manageable daily schedule, 4 hours a day of classes is a good balance between learning and having free time to practice in real life or work. In the Guangdong area, including Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Foshan, there are several reputable language schools that cater to expats and international students.

Answer: Visiting the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge and the surrounding canyon area can indeed be confusing, especially with multiple elevators, stairs, and additional attractions like the marble slideway. Here's a detailed explanation of the descending options and other features:

Answer: Your planned itinerary — flying from Glasgow to Beijing (via Amsterdam), staying in Beijing and Shanghai, and then flying onward to Hong Kong — can qualify for China’s Transit Without Visa (TWOV) policy under the 144-hour visa-free transit rule, provided you meet certain key conditions. Let’s break it down carefully to ensure your route is compliant.

Answer: Yes, you can use Alipay to pay for subway rides in Beijing, and the process is fairly straightforward once your credit card is linked. Here are the details:

Answer: Traveling between Hangzhou and Suzhou is relatively straightforward, and you have a few good options depending on your preferences for speed, comfort, and flexibility.

Answer: European credit cards are generally accepted in Hong Kong, especially at larger stores, restaurants, shopping malls, and some public transport ticket machines. Contactless cards with Visa, Mastercard, or American Express logos usually work fine. However, small shops, local markets, and some taxis may prefer cash or the local Octopus Card.

Answer: Narat Prairie, located near Yining in the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture of Xinjiang, is famous for its vast grasslands and apricot blossoms in April. Staying in a traditional yurt (ger) is a unique way to experience local Kazakh culture and the stunning scenery, but since April is peak blossom season, accommodations can fill up quickly.

Answer: Spending 4 hours at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) can be made much more comfortable by using one of the pay-per-use lounges, even if you’re flying economy. HKG offers several lounges accessible for a fee, and experiences vary depending on the lounge, time of day, and crowd levels.

Answer: Flying from Xinjiang (Kashgar or Urumqi) to Lhasa is indeed the fastest and most practical option, especially during July and August when overland travel is long and high-altitude roads can be challenging. However, international flight search engines often do not show domestic Chinese flights, which is why you may not see results on Kayak or Skyscanner.

Answer: Shanghai is a vast and diverse city, so splitting your stay between two neighborhoods can be a smart choice, especially for an eight-day trip. It allows you to experience different sides of the city and reduces travel time to major attractions.

Answer: All three Western Sichuan tour options cover stunning scenery in the Siguniang Mountain region, Danba Tibetan villages, and surrounding highlands, but they differ in focus, pace, and small-group experience. October is a great time for clear skies, autumn colors, and moderate temperatures.

Answer: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong) in Yunnan is one of the most popular attractions near Lijiang, and visiting in July means you will be in the high season, with many domestic tourists. Planning ahead is highly recommended to avoid long queues and potential sold-out tickets.

Answer: Traveling from Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon) to the Shekou Cruise Terminal in Shenzhen with luggage can be done in a few ways, depending on how much convenience and comfort you want. Here are the main options:

Answer: For a mid-June trip with 6 nights remaining after Chongqing, here’s a detailed breakdown of your options regarding Jiuzhaigou and Chengdu:

Answer: With a 17-hour layover in Hong Kong and children aged 8, 11, and 14, you have enough time to experience some highlights of the city, even with late-night arrival and early evening departure. Since your arrival is at 9 pm, your first priority will be transport and accommodation.

Answer: Shenzhen offers a wide range of international and local hotels, each with different advantages depending on your priorities such as location, comfort, breakfast quality, and executive lounge facilities. Here’s a breakdown of the options you listed:

Answer: Hong Kong in early May is generally warm and humid, as it falls within the late spring season. The weather can be quite variable, with a mix of sunny, cloudy, and rainy days.

Answer: For your free-and-easy days in Urumqi, it is best to stay in a central area that is convenient for public transport, close to local food, and near morning markets. The downtown area around the People’s Square and Xinhua Road is very popular among visitors for its convenience and access to attractions.

Answer: Visiting major tourist sites like the Terracotta Army (Mausoleum) in Xi’an and the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang can be convenient with Didi, but there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

Answer: Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) offers a variety of paid lounges that you can access regardless of airline or class of travel. If your departing flight to Bali is from Terminal 1, there are several convenient options near the gates where international departures are processed.

Answer: Your itinerary for Beijing over the Labour Day holidays is quite ambitious, and it’s important to factor in significantly higher crowd levels during this national holiday period. While your plan is logistically possible, there are ways to optimize it to minimize waiting times and make your experience more enjoyable.

Answer: For private transfers in Hong Kong, especially for a family of 5, you have several reliable options. Since you need transport from Tsim Sha Tsui (TST) to Hong Kong Disneyland’s Explorers Lodge, and later from the hotel to Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), private car services or shuttle services are usually the most convenient and comfortable.

Answer: If you are looking to hire a driver in Xi’an for 1-2 days, there are several options depending on whether you prefer a private car service, app-based ride service, or through a local tour operator. Hiring a driver can be very convenient for visiting the Terracotta Warriors, City Wall, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and surrounding areas, especially if you have a tight schedule.

Answer: Dong’an Sports Lake Park, which hosts the Multi-Arena for events like the World Games, is located in the eastern part of Chengdu. Public transport options from the city center are convenient, but there is no metro station directly adjacent to the arena, so you’ll need a combination of metro and short bus/taxi rides.

Answer: Shanghai Disney with young children can be a magical experience, but planning is key to make it enjoyable without exhausting the kids. Since your boys are 4 and 6 and are not thrill seekers, your focus will naturally be on mild rides, character meet-and-greets, shows, and parades rather than the high-intensity attractions.

Answer: Flying from Beijing to Guilin is certainly the most direct and convenient option for reaching Yangshuo. Although flights may be expensive, they save a lot of travel time and hassle. Flying to Hong Kong first to get a cheaper flight is technically possible but will likely be more complicated and time-consuming.

Answer: In China, Didi is the dominant ride-hailing service, similar to Uber in other countries. On the iPhone App Store, you may see two apps, but it’s important to choose the correct one for use within mainland China.

Answer: Traveling to Beijing with kids requires a bit of planning around payments and daily expenses. Here’s a detailed breakdown for your questions:

Answer: Based on your plan and considering your age and fitness level, a gentle and scenic itinerary for Huangshan Mountain is advisable. Since you are aiming to walk around 4-6 miles each day and prefer routes without too many stairs or steep sections, the following plan balances sightseeing with comfort.

Answer: The Jin Jiang Grand Hall Hotel (老锦江饭店) in Yangpu District, Shanghai, is part of the well-known Jin Jiang hotel group, a trusted local brand with a long history in hospitality. This particular property blends a touch of old Shanghai charm with modern facilities, making it a comfortable mid- to upper-range choice for both business and leisure travelers.

Answer: Ten days in Beijing can feel long if you plan to stay strictly in the city, but it’s actually a good amount of time if you want to travel at a relaxed pace, especially with elderly parents. Beijing has many major attractions that can be tiring if done back-to-back, so spacing them out and adding day trips is a good idea.

Answer: The new Hong Kong Stadium for the Sevens at Kai Tak is located in an area that is primarily redeveloped and residential, so the immediate vicinity does not have a vibrant nightlife scene like the old stadium area near Wan Chai. Most bars and nightlife venues are concentrated elsewhere in Kowloon and Hong Kong Island.

Answer: If you are looking to see baby pandas in Chengdu, the primary destination is the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. This facility is the main hub for panda conservation and breeding, and it is well-known for allowing visitors to observe pandas of all ages, including infants and cubs.

Answer: For a visit to Guangzhou focused on history, traditional architecture, and Chinese culture, a 2-night stay over a weekend is usually sufficient. This allows you to arrive on a Friday evening, explore the city on Saturday and Sunday, and return to Hong Kong on Sunday night or Monday morning. Guangzhou is large, but key cultural and historical sites can be comfortably covered in two full days.

Answer: Your trip from 25th December to 2nd January gives you about 9 full days in Shanghai, which is a decent amount of time for a first visit. You can certainly explore Shanghai itself and also do 1–2 day trips to nearby cities or water towns, but keep in mind that traveling to multiple cities like Suzhou and Nanjing in a short period can feel rushed.

Answer: The Tiger Leaping Gorge trek is one of Yunnan's most famous hikes, offering dramatic scenery, deep gorges, and views of the Jinsha River. Planning your trek from Lijiang in May is ideal, as the weather is generally pleasant—moderate temperatures, less rain than summer, and mostly clear skies.

Answer: If you are planning a family trip in Chengdu and looking for a reliable driver who can also act as a tour guide, there are several options that cater specifically to small groups and provide a flexible, personalized experience.

Answer: Hong Kong’s MTR Corporation, traditionally known for operating the city’s extensive metro system, has recently expanded its services to include food and dining recommendations for travelers and locals. This initiative, called "Discovering Local Flavors," highlights traditional Chinese tea houses and dim sum restaurants accessible via MTR stations.

Answer: Here’s a detailed breakdown of your queries regarding travelling in and out of Macau:

Answer: It’s great that you’ve prepared a travel itinerary for Henan, China! Sharing experiences can be very helpful for others planning a visit, especially since Henan has many historical and cultural sites.

Answer: Your proposed 3-week China itinerary from mid-March to early April is ambitious but generally doable, especially since you have allowed extra nights in Beijing and Shanghai for relaxed sightseeing. Here’s a detailed assessment of each leg:

Answer: If you are planning a day trip from Hong Kong to mainland China as a UK citizen, there are several visa and travel considerations to be aware of. Mainland China generally requires a visa for UK passport holders, even for short visits or day trips. However, there are some exceptions depending on the city and entry method.

Answer: Filipino nationals who hold valid Hong Kong domestic worker visas may be eligible to apply for a 5-day Shenzhen visa upon arrival at the Lo Wu (Luohu) border crossing, but there are some important points to note.

Answer: Your planned itinerary for one day in Hong Kong during Chinese New Year is ambitious. While technically possible, several factors make it challenging to complete comfortably. CNY is one of the busiest travel periods in Hong Kong, so public transport, tourist attractions, and popular sites will likely be crowded.

Answer: The age limit for bamboo rafting in Yangshuo is generally set for safety reasons. The Li River, while scenic and calm in many stretches, can have some sections with mild rapids or uneven water flow that may pose a risk, especially for older travelers or those with health conditions like osteoporosis. Operators want to minimize the risk of falls, injuries, or other accidents during boarding, disembarking, or if the raft encounters slightly rough patches.

Answer: Your 3-day Shanghai itinerary is quite well-structured, but a few adjustments are needed to account for museum closures and to make the days more efficient. Here’s a detailed review and advice:

Answer: Both the Stanford Hillview Hotel and Harbour Grand Kowloon are good choices, but they cater to different travel styles and locations within Kowloon. The best option depends on your priorities — whether you prefer convenient access to shopping and MTR lines or a more scenic, upscale waterfront experience.

Answer: When deciding between Luoyang, Pingyao, and Datong for a 2-day stop between Beijing and Xi’an, several factors come into play, including travel time, sights, and logistical convenience.

Answer: If you are looking for self-service laundrettes around the Zhongshan Park metro area in Shanghai, there are a few options, though the area is more commonly served by full-service laundries and hotel laundry services.

Answer: Hong Kong is generally very card-friendly, including for credit and debit cards, but Lantau Island has some limitations depending on where you go. Disneyland, Ngong Ping 360, and most hotels accept cards without issues. Smaller shops, local eateries, or markets on Lantau may still prefer cash, so it’s useful to carry some HKD.

Answer: Traveling on high-speed trains in China with young children follows specific ticketing rules that are important to know.

Answer: Zhangjiajie is famous for its unique pillar-like formations and scenic walking paths. Here’s detailed advice regarding your questions:

Answer: Yes, as a British passport holder, you can apply for a Chinese tourist visa from outside the UK. China allows applicants to submit visa applications at Chinese embassies or consulates in the country where they are legally residing or temporarily staying, not just in their home country.

Answer: The 144-hour Visa-Free Transit (VFT) policy in China allows certain nationalities, including British passport holders, to stay in designated cities or regions (like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, etc.) without a visa for up to 144 hours, provided specific conditions are met.

Answer: For travelers planning a short transit in China under the 24-hour or 144-hour transit without visa (TWOV) schemes, there are specific rules regarding third-country transit that must be observed. Even if a post on a forum has been removed, the general rules remain consistent across official Chinese immigration sources.

Answer: Traveling from Yichang to Guilin involves covering a significant distance across China. Since you prefer trains but are willing to fly, here are your main options for the transfer, along with suggestions for interesting stopovers.

Answer: Finding a reliable English-speaking private driver in Hangzhou and Suzhou is quite feasible, especially for travelers who want comfort, flexibility, and local guidance without navigating public transport.

Answer: China’s visa-free transit policies allow foreign travelers to stay in certain cities or regions for a limited period without a visa, depending on the type of transit and airport. The common types are 24-hour, 72-hour, and 144-hour (6-day) or 10-day (240-hour) visa-free transit, depending on your entry city.

Answer: Yes, you can use the same VISA card to set up multiple Tourist Octopus cards on your iPhones. The Hong Kong Octopus app allows you to link a payment card to top up and manage Octopus cards, and you can add several cards under the same payment method.

Answer: The Furong Ancient Town, Zhangjiajie, and Fenghuang are all in Hunan province or nearby areas, but they are not immediately adjacent to each other. Planning your itinerary depends on your priorities, pace, and transport preferences.

Answer: Hiring a private car with a driver is a convenient way to explore Hainan, especially for a group of 4 visiting both Sanya and Haikou. Many local drivers do not speak English, but with navigation apps and clear itineraries, this is usually not an issue. Drivers are experienced with popular tourist routes and can help plan your day efficiently.

Answer: Dazu Railway Station (Dazunan) is a relatively small station, but it does have some basic services for travelers. If you plan to visit both Baodingshan and Beishan Rock Carvings in one day, hiring a private taxi is the most convenient option since public transport connections between the two sites are limited.

Answer: If you're seeking budget-friendly accommodations within walking distance of Beijing's Forbidden City and popular pedestrian food streets, there are several options to consider. With a budget of around 400 Chinese yuan per night, you can find comfortable stays that offer both convenience and local flavor.

Answer: The Longsheng Rice Terraces, also known as the Dragon’s Backbone, are located about 100 km from Guilin city center and can be visited as a day trip. Most day tours depart Guilin early in the morning and return in the evening, typically lasting around 10–12 hours including travel time.

Answer: Arriving at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) at 10 p.m. is relatively late, but public transport options to Sheung Shui Station are still available, though you need to plan carefully due to MTR operating hours.

Answer: In Beijing, due to the new regulations on power banks, only 3C-certified power banks are allowed for sale and for carrying on flights. If you arrive at Beijing Capital Airport, your options to buy 3C-certified power banks immediately are somewhat limited inside the secure area.

Answer: Here’s a breakdown of your itinerary and how it relates to the 240-hour Visa-Free Transit Policy (sometimes called “10-day visa-free transit”) for mainland China, along with what you should be aware of when planning to use it.

Answer: Beijing is indeed very famous for its historical and cultural attractions like the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Summer Palace, which makes it touristy in certain areas. However, the city also has vibrant neighborhoods and local life that are worth exploring if you want a more authentic experience.

Answer: The Shanghai International Circuit, home of the Chinese Grand Prix, does offer access outside race days, but the options are more limited compared to race weekends.

Answer: In China, the 'M' visa is officially a business visa, and it is intended primarily for activities such as attending meetings, negotiating contracts, or visiting business partners. There is no explicit legal restriction that prevents someone with an 'M' visa from entering China and engaging in tourism or visiting family, but immigration authorities have the discretion to decide the purpose of entry at the port of entry.

Answer: Panjiayuan Antique Market in Beijing is famous as one of the largest markets for antiques, collectibles, and traditional Chinese crafts. It is particularly lively on weekends, which is why many sources emphasize its weekend activity.

Answer: Your proposed itinerary covers a wide range of experiences, from bustling modern cities to scenic natural areas, which is great for a varied China trip. However, it is quite packed, and there are several long-distance transfers that may feel tiring. Here’s a detailed feedback on each leg:

Answer: If you have a 15-hour layover in Hong Kong, taking the HK City Sightseeing Bus is a convenient way to see the city without worrying about navigation. The main hop-on hop-off bus route covers major attractions in Hong Kong Island and Kowloon.

Answer: With only one day in Hong Kong from 7 am to 4 pm, it’s important to plan your route efficiently to maximize your time while still enjoying each destination. Using a combination of public transportation and Uber is practical, but traffic can affect Uber travel times, especially during morning and lunchtime. Here is a suggested plan:

Answer: Da Dong is one of Beijing’s most famous Peking duck restaurants, and it has multiple branches throughout the city. Generally, all branches maintain a high standard of food quality, especially for signature dishes like their roast duck, but there are some differences in atmosphere, convenience, and service style.

Answer: The Transit Without Visa (TWOV) process in China allows certain nationalities to transit through designated Chinese airports for a limited period without a visa, provided you are traveling onward to a third country. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide for your scenario:

Answer: Visiting Zhangjiajie in early June can be a mixed experience. June is not the absolute peak tourist season like National Day (October) or Chinese New Year, but it coincides with the start of the summer holidays for schools in China, so you may see an increase in domestic travelers, particularly on weekends. The weather in June is generally warm and humid, with occasional rain, which can make some trails slippery but also enhances the lush greenery of the area.

Answer: Shenzhen is a great place to buy silk products, including pillowcases, eye masks, and bedding, thanks to its proximity to the Guangdong silk industry. Here are some options and areas where you can find authentic mulberry silk items:

Answer: Using a VPN while traveling in mainland China can help you access many western websites and services that are otherwise blocked by the Great Firewall of China and other filtering systems. However, there are a few important caveats you should keep in mind:

Answer: Yes, Hong Kong is a great place to shop for quality winterwear and cold-weather shoes, even though the city itself has a mild winter. Since many locals travel abroad during the colder months, Hong Kong’s shopping malls and sportswear retailers stock a wide range of winter jackets, boots, and thermal accessories suitable for destinations like Japan, Korea, or Europe. You will have no trouble finding items designed for snow and sub-zero conditions.

Answer: Arranging private transport from Fenghuang to Guilin with stops at Longji and other scenic or cultural sites is entirely feasible, especially for a small group of three. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan:

Answer: Chengdu has several high-end hotels located in or near shopping areas with convenient metro access and good food options. Here is a detailed overview of the hotels you mentioned:

Answer: If you are planning a trip to Yangshuo and want a genuine, flexible, and knowledgeable local guide, YiWan (Wan) comes highly recommended. Many travelers have found his services to be exceptional for several reasons.

Answer: Obtaining a police clearance certificate (also called a “Certificate of No Criminal Record”) from China can be challenging, especially if the person no longer resides in the country. However, it is possible by following specific procedures depending on whether the applicant is currently in China or abroad. This document is issued by the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) in the city where the individual lived or studied.

Answer: The 240-hour visa-free transit policy in China allows travelers from certain countries to stay in designated cities for up to 10 days (240 hours) without obtaining a standard Chinese visa, provided they are in transit to a third country.

Answer: Yunnan is a fantastic region with diverse landscapes, rich culture, and historic towns. For a tour covering Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La without forced shopping stops, it’s important to select either private guided tours or reputable small-group operators who explicitly advertise “no shopping stops.”

Answer: Welcome to your upcoming trip to Hong Kong! Here’s a detailed overview of what you need to know regarding immigration and using payment methods in Hong Kong.

Answer: Traveling from Macau to Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) can be done efficiently through a few different transportation options, depending on your preference for speed, convenience, and cost. The distance between Macau and HKIA is approximately 60–70 km as the crow flies, but actual travel routes involve crossing the Hong Kong–Macau border and possibly using a combination of ferry, bus, or helicopter.

Answer: A 55-minute connection at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) can be tight, especially when transferring between terminals, but it can be manageable under certain circumstances.

Answer: Traveling from Holiday Inn Golden Mile in Tsim Sha Tsui to the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal (Shun Tak Centre in Sheung Wan) with 6 adults, 4 kids, and luggage requires a balance of convenience, cost, and ease of handling bags. Here are the main options:

Answer: For a leisure trip to Shanghai from 30 July to 6 August, staying in the Pudong-Bund area is an excellent choice. This location offers luxury accommodation, proximity to high-end shopping, and easy access to the Bund for promenades and people-watching. It is also convenient for day trips out of the city via Shanghai’s extensive metro and high-speed train network.

Answer: In Beijing, many hotels operate under a central heating and cooling system controlled by municipal regulations. Typically, the city mandates central heating to remain on until mid-March and only allows cooling systems to be activated in mid- to late May, depending on temperature trends. This means that in April, most hotels only provide air circulation or “fan” mode, resulting in room temperatures around 23–25°C (73–77°F).

Answer: Visiting Mount Kailash in Tibet requires careful planning because it is located in a restricted area and foreign travelers cannot go independently. Since you prefer entering China via Beijing, here is a detailed overview of the process:

Answer: Yunnan in November offers a quieter travel experience compared to the busy summer months, but it also comes with specific weather considerations, especially if you are thinking about visiting the Yuanyang rice terraces. The region is known for its dramatic landscapes and ethnic diversity, but the timing of your visit affects what you will see.

Answer: Buying used GPUs in China can be an interesting option if you are visiting and want to check out the electronics markets directly, but there are several things to keep in mind. The market for used high-end graphics cards like Titan RTX or older RTX models exists, but it is somewhat niche and can be volatile due to demand, import restrictions, and local regulations.