(by a 63-year-old solo traveler who’s been there, learned, and loved it)
Traveling to China solo for the first time was one of the most exciting journeys I have ever had, and so can you! China is safe, fascinating, and filled with history and culture that stretches back thousands of years. But it also has a few rules, systems, and surprises that you’ll want to know before you go. With research and planning, you can make your trip a complete success. Here is how to plan your first solo adventure wisely and confidently.
Getting Your Visa
Before you even book your flight, make sure you understand the visa process. This trips up (pun intended) so many people, as US travelers are not used to needing visas. If your trip is less than 10 days, however, you might not need one. There is a relatively new “240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy for eligible foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, if they transit through China to a third country, via specific ports.”
You must do your research on these. Some of the people I met during my trip had these and had to redo their travel plans mid-trip, at their own expense. For most of us, these are the rules:
- Tourist Visa (L Visa): Most Americans need to apply for this before arrival. You can do it through the Chinese Embassy or a visa service company online. Applications can be completed online, but you might need to go in person to submit. AND you might have to come back to pick it up days or a week later.
- Documents: You’ll need a valid passport (with 6+ months left), at least three empty pages in the visa stamps section, a passport photo, your flight itinerary, and proof of hotel reservations. (I know this is bass-ackwards, but you have to buy your air ticket and reserve at least one hotel before you can apply for a visa. If this makes you nervous, buy fully refundable options.)
- Multiple-Entry Option: If you think you might return, apply for a 10-year multiple-entry visa—it’s well worth it, and though they usually give this standard, be sure to ask.
- Tip: Some travelers report faster approval through Chinese visa application companies, with, of course, the added costs.
Important: Short-term, visa-free entry is rare for U.S. citizens, though certain cities like Shanghai or Beijing allow limited 72–144-hour visa-free stays for transiting passengers. Always do your research to confirm this before traveling, and that your airline allows it.
Planning Ahead
China is a massive country, as big as the US, and solo travel means thinking through logistics.
- Travel Seasons: Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are the best times to go. Summer is hot and crowded; winter is cold but less touristy. NOTE: Research the year you are going for when their Golden Week is being celebrated. Almost all Chinese have this week off, and most of them travel within the country! Do yourself a huge favor and DON’T go during this week.
- Itinerary Balance: Don’t try to see everything in one trip, especially if this is your first trip. Choose 2–3 regions—say, one or two major cities (most choose Beijing and one other), and a mix of cultural areas and beautiful nature spots.
- Language: English is not widely spoken outside major cities. Translation tools are vital. Try to learn some of the basics, like hello, goodbye, please, thank you, etc.
Apps to Download Before You Go:
Important: Be sure to download and test while still at home. You may not be able to download or start once you are in China.
- Alipay: For paying for everything from food to taxis (Didi) to clothing, no app is more widely used, and you will grow to love this app!
- WeChat: For messaging, translation, and mobile payments. Hotels like using this to message you, as do tour groups.
- Amap or Baidu Maps: Google Maps doesn’t work well in China. Get familiar with these before you need to use them in China.
- DiDi: The Chinese version of Uber. You can link it to a foreign credit card. Alipay has this as a mini app inside of it.
- Google Translate or Pleco: Chinese/English translation and dictionary apps. Be sure to download the language so you can use it off the internet.
- VPN: Many Western websites and apps (Google, Gmail, Facebook, Instagram) are blocked in China. Download a VPN before you arrive so you can stay connected. Research what is working best currently, as it does change.
Money and Payments
Cash isn’t king in China anymore—mobile payment is, though you still should have some cash.
- Alipay and WeChat Pay are the two big players. Both allow foreign credit cards so that you can link an American Express, Visa, or Mastercard.
- You’ll still want to carry some cash (Chinese yuan, RMB) for small vendors and rural areas. I took out 1,000 RMB and, after three weeks, still had 800 left.
- ATMs in big cities work with major international cards, but always notify your bank of travel plans.
I know that travelers over 50 often find mobile payments intimidating at first, but setup guides in English make it straightforward, and it’s far more convenient once set up.
Getting Around
China’s transportation network is efficient and modern, but it can be overwhelming the first time.
- High-Speed Trains: Fast, comfortable, and usually the best way to travel between cities that are four to five hours or less on bullet trains. Book on apps like Trip.com, which offers English-language service. The Chinese train app Railway12306 is the standard one they use throughout China, but you must translate each page individually. Most major cities have multiple train stations, and their names often look alike; be sure to use the correct one. Also, most tickets use your passport as the ticket. Finally, be aware that train tickets can be reserved but are not “officially” sold until 14 days before use. You usually need to buy a train ticket and then purchase your seat.
- Domestic Flights: Fine for longer distances of five hours or more by train, though delays are common, and major cities have multiple airports, so be sure which one is correct. (NOTE: In 2025, the Chinese government put new rules on lithium chargers; they must have a CCC printed on them for air travel. This is a Chinese safety certification.
- Taxis: Cheap and reliable, but drivers rarely speak English. Have your destination written in Chinese characters or use DiDi, primarily through Alipay.
- Subways: Excellent in significant cities; most have their own apps. Stations are well-marked, clean, and safe. Alipay can often be used for electronic tickets.
Tip: You must always carry your passport when traveling in China. Not only is it required to board trains, check into hotels, and when visiting most attractions, but you can, and probably will, be asked for it while walking by the police. In one week in Beijing, I was asked 6 times.
Staying Connected
Internet access is a bit different in China than in the US or other Western countries.
- The “Great Firewall” Blocks Google, YouTube, Facebook, and many Western news sites.
- VPNs: Needed to access blocked sites, but choose a reputable one and set it up before you travel.
- SIM Cards: Must have. You can buy a local SIM at the airport for data and calls, but you cannot access the sites mentioned above. Best to purchase an eSIM before you go (Airalo and Nomad are popular options) and be sure to set it up while at home.
Rules and Customs
China is very orderly, clean, and safe, but it has firm rules:
- Always carry your passport—police can request ID at any time. (see my experience above)
- Respect local laws: Even minor offenses like jaywalking or littering can result in fines.
- Photography: Avoid photographing government buildings and especially security personnel in airports, train stations, government buildings, attractions, and on the street.
- Social Media: Avoid posting political commentary—China constantly monitors online activity. In fact, if there is something that bothers you, WAIT until you get home to post about it.
Cultural Notes:
- Personal space is much smaller than in the U.S. People will push you to get room or spots ahead on trains, buses, and in lines. Watch out specifically for older women who use their elbows like knives while in line.
- Bargaining is expected in markets but not in stores. Though this isn’t like bargaining in the Middle East, there are just too many customers for them to give you rock-bottom prices.
- Tipping is not common, except for guides or private drivers, and could insult someone.
Booking Hotels and Getting the Best Rates
Not all hotels in China can host foreigners—they must be licensed to do so. Don’t make this mistake! Always confirm that your hotel can accept foreigners before you arrive.
- Book through international platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, or Trip.com. These sites filter hotels that are allowed to accept foreign guests.
- Trip.com often has the best combination of price and service for English-speaking travelers. (I used Trip.com almost exclusively)
- Chain Hotels: Marriott, Hyatt, Holiday Inn, and Ibis are common in big cities and meet Western standards.
- Payment: Many hotels accept foreign credit cards, but smaller ones may prefer Alipay or cash in person.
Staying Safe and Comfortable
China is one of the safest countries for solo travelers, including women and seniors. Petty theft is rare but still possible in crowded tourist areas or on buses/trains.
- Health: Bring basic medications as pharmacies will probably not have Western brands.
- Food Safety: Eat at restaurants and avoid raw foods in street stalls.
- Restrooms: Public toilets can be very basic, often just a hole in the ground; ALWAYS carry tissues and hand sanitizer.
- Walking: Expect long distances in big cities and tourist sites; comfortable shoes are a must. I always suggest bringing two pairs and switching them every day.
Tickets and Reservations
Some major sites require advance tickets, often with real-name registration and using your passport.
- Forbidden City (Beijing): Must book online in advance—no walk-in tickets.
- Terracotta Warriors (Xi’an): Booking recommended during holidays and summer.
- High-speed trains: Require passport information when booking.
Final Thoughts
Traveling solo in China after 50 or 60 is entirely doable and deeply rewarding. You’ll find excellent infrastructure, low crime, fascinating history, and a culture that values respect and hospitality.
The key is preparation: secure your visa, download the right apps, stay flexible, and give yourself time to absorb the rhythm of daily life. Whether you’re enjoying the Great Wall, watching tai chi in a park, or moving between cities on a bullet train, you’ll discover that China welcomes solo travelers of every age, especially those with kindness and patience.
Here is an easy to download or print Travel Checklist for you.
