Foreigner's Guide to Chengdu
Everything international visitors need to know before and during their trip to Chengdu. Visas, payments, internet, language, culture, and honest advice from a local.
Visas & Entry
Getting into China is easier than ever, but the rules change frequently. Here's what you need to know for 2025.
Tourist Visa (L Visa)
The most common visa for visiting Chengdu. Valid for 30-90 days depending on your nationality and application.
- Apply at your local Chinese embassy or visa center
- Processing takes 4-10 business days
- Need: passport (6+ months validity), photo, application form, flight & hotel bookings
- Cost varies by nationality ($140-180 for US, €125-150 for EU)
144-Hour Visa-Free Transit
Chengdu offers 144-hour (6-day) visa-free transit for citizens of 53 countries if transiting to a third country.
- Available to US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, and more (53 countries)
- Must have confirmed onward ticket to a third country
- Limited to Chengdu and surrounding areas (Sichuan province)
- You cannot leave the designated area or extend this period
Visa-Free Entry (New Policy)
As of 2024, citizens of 38 countries can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days (extendable to 2025).
- Includes France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, and 33 more countries
- Valid for tourism, business, family visits, and transit
- Must have return ticket and hotel booking
- Check latest updates as the policy is temporary and may change
Important
Visa policies can change rapidly. Always verify with your local Chinese embassy or consulate before booking. The 144-hour transit and visa-free policies have specific requirements – read the fine print carefully.
Money & Payments
China is nearly cashless. Understanding mobile payment before you arrive will save you major headaches.
Alipay & WeChat Pay
Mobile payment dominates China. Cash is rarely used, even at street stalls. Alipay is the most foreigner-friendly option.
- Download Alipay before arriving and link your international credit card
- WeChat Pay is popular but often requires a Chinese bank account
- Set up Alipay Tour Card feature for transit-friendly payments
- International cards now work directly in Alipay (as of 2024)
- Keep some cash as backup – not everywhere accepts foreign cards
Cash & Cards
While mobile payment rules, you should still carry cash and cards as backup options.
- ATMs available throughout the city (look for UnionPay, Visa/MC logos)
- Major hotels and upscale malls accept international credit cards
- Notify your bank before traveling to China
- Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY/RMB), approximately 7.2 RMB per USD
- Exchange money at banks or hotels, not airport kiosks (worse rates)
Internet, VPN & Apps
The internet works differently in China. Prepare before you leave home or you'll be digitally stranded.
Internet & VPN
The Great Firewall blocks Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, YouTube, and many Western services. A VPN is essential.
- Install and test your VPN BEFORE arriving in China
- Popular VPNs: ExpressVPN, AstrillVPN, NordVPN (success varies)
- Some VPNs work better than others – have a backup option
- WiFi is available at hotels, cafes, and malls (often requires phone number)
- Get a local SIM card (China Mobile/Unicom) for reliable data
- eSIM options: Airalo, Holafly, Nomad – install before your flight
Essential Apps
These apps will make your trip much smoother. Download them before you arrive.
- WeChat: Universal messaging and mini-apps for everything
- Alipay: Payments, metro cards, DiDi rides, and more
- DiDi: Chinese Uber with English interface
- Google Translate or Pleco: Essential for menu translation
- Metroman/Chengdu Metro: Navigation app for the subway
- Dianping (Chinese Yelp): Restaurant reviews and discovery
Language & Communication
English is not widely spoken outside hotels and tourist areas. These phrases and tips will help you get by.
Nǐ hǎo (你好)
Hello
Universal greeting, use anytime
Xièxiè (谢谢)
Thank you
Always appreciated, use often
Duìbuqǐ (对不起)
Sorry / Excuse me
Use when bumping into someone or getting attention
Wǒ bú yào là (我不要辣)
I don't want spicy
Essential at restaurants if you can't handle spice
Duōshǎo qián? (多少钱?)
How much?
Useful for shopping and street vendors
Zhèlǐ (这里)
Here
Point to your destination on a map and say this
Communication Tips
- Download Google Translate with Chinese offline pack before your trip
- Have your hotel address and key destinations written in Chinese characters
- Pointing at photos and using hand gestures works surprisingly well
- Hotel staff and younger people are more likely to speak some English
Cultural Know-How
Understanding local customs will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Chengdu is famously laid-back, but knowing these tips helps.
Personal Space
Personal space is smaller in China. Crowding, close contact in queues, and people standing close when talking are normal. Don't take it personally.
Tipping
Tipping is NOT expected in China. Not in restaurants, taxis, or for services. High-end hotels may add a service charge, but you don't need to tip extra.
Photography
Chinese people love taking photos. Don't be surprised if locals ask to take photos with you, especially in less touristy areas. It's friendly curiosity.
Tea House Etiquette
When someone pours tea for you, tap two fingers on the table as a silent thank you. This is a Chengdu tradition dating back to the Qing Dynasty.
Public Behavior
Spitting and loud phone conversations in public are common. While this may seem rude to Westerners, it's generally accepted locally. Don't be shocked.
Dining Customs
Food is shared family-style. Don't stick chopsticks vertically in rice. Slurping noodles is acceptable. The person who invites usually pays.
Safety & Health
Chengdu is very safe, but being prepared helps you travel with confidence.
General Safety
Chengdu is one of China's safest cities. Violent crime against foreigners is extremely rare. Petty theft can happen in crowded tourist areas, so keep valuables secure.
Scams to Avoid
Tea house scam: friendly strangers invite you for tea, then you get a massive bill. Art student scam: 'students' selling overpriced 'art'. Stick to licensed tour operators.
Emergency Numbers
Police: 110 | Ambulance: 120 | Fire: 119 | Tourist Hotline: 12301. Most operators speak some English. Save these numbers in your phone.
Health & Medical
International clinics available at West China Hospital and Global Doctor Chengdu. Carry travel insurance. Bring basic medications – familiar brands may be hard to find.
Quick Reference
Time Zone
UTC+8 (CST)
Currency
CNY ¥ (RMB)
Metro Fare
2-10 RMB
Tipping
Not Expected
Voltage
220V, 50Hz
Still Have Questions About Visiting Chengdu?
I'm here to help with visa advice, itinerary planning, and any questions about traveling to Chengdu as a foreign visitor.