Do I need a Chinese bank account?
For supported international-card purchases, Alipay and Weixin Pay offer visitor options. Acceptance depends on the card, account and transaction. Start with the payment guide and keep cash as a backup.
Will a travel eSIM receive SMS codes?
Not if it is data-only. Keep an SMS-capable number active and check roaming with its operator. Compare the separate jobs of data, roaming and a local SIM.
Can I show a screenshot of my payment code?
Open payment and metro codes inside the app when you need them. They can expire. Save addresses, confirmed bookings and emergency contacts offline instead.
Can I use the site without an account?
Yes. Reading guides, searching, checking off your preparations and creating an address card do not require a visitor account. Checklist choices stay on your device.
Are these guides tested on real phones in China?
Each article distinguishes source review from field testing. An empty field-test record means we have not documented a real-device test. See the editorial policy.
Where should I start if I have just landed?
Use the first two hours plan, then make a Chinese address card. For urgent danger, go straight to Emergency.