China Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

Exercise increased caution in China due to  arbitrary enforcement of local laws , including in relation to exit bans . The People’s Republic of China (PRC) government arbitrarily enforces local laws, including exit bans on U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries, without fair and transparent process under the law. Foreigners in the PRC, including but not limited to businesspeople, former foreign-government personnel, academics, relatives of PRC citizens involved in legal disputes, and...

🚨 Emergency Numbers

🏥 Healthcare Summary

Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou have excellent international hospitals and clinics (e.g., Beijing United Family Hospital, Parkway Health in Shanghai). Public hospitals in tier-1 cities are competent but extremely crowded; rural areas have limited facilities.

Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Many hospitals require upfront payment or a deposit before treatment. Ensure your policy covers evacuation, as quality care outside major cities can be limited.

💊 Medication Restrictions

China has extremely strict narcotics laws. ANY amount of many substances triggers severe criminal penalties. Carry only essential medications with official Chinese-translated prescriptions and doctor letters. Do NOT bring opioids, psychotropics, or stimulants without advance NMPA approval.

• Cannabis / CBD — BANNED: Zero tolerance. Even trace amounts can lead to arrest and imprisonment. CBD products also prohibited.
• Adderall / amphetamines — BANNED: Strictly prohibited. No import exemption. Carrying results in criminal prosecution.
• Opioids (morphine, oxycodone, fentanyl) — BANNED: Prohibited without advance NMPA (National Medical Products Administration) approval, which is rarely granted to tourists.
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin) — RESTRICTED: Requires advance approval from NMPA. Carry original prescription with Chinese translation. Strictly limit to personal use quantities.
• Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, Klonopin) — RESTRICTED: Carry original prescription with official Chinese translation. Declare at customs. Maximum 1-month supply.

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: Not expected and not customary. Some high-end international hotels may accept tips. Taxi drivers do not expect tips.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• Sticking chopsticks upright in rice (funeral symbolism)
• Writing names in red ink (associated with death)
• Giving clocks as gifts (sounds like 'attending a funeral')
• The number 4 (sounds like 'death')
• Discussing Taiwan, Tibet, or Tiananmen Square politics