So, you have your Visa, you have downloaded Alipay, and you have mapped out the locations in Hengdian. You are ready to go, right?
Almost.
China is one of the most advanced, convenient, and safe countries in the world, but it also has a unique digital and physical ecosystem that can confuse first-timers.
As a drama fan, you want to focus on finding The Untamed spots, not worrying about why your Instagram won’t load or why there is no toilet paper in the stall.
Here are the 10 things I wish I knew before my first set-jetting trip.
1.The “Great Firewall” & VPNs
Reality: You cannot access Google, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, or WhatsApp on standard Chinese WiFi. Solution:
- Option A (Easiest): Buy an eSIM (like Airalo or Holafly) before you fly. These usually route data through Hong Kong/Singapore, bypassing the firewall automatically.
- Option B (Cheaper): Download a reliable VPN (Virtual Private Network) before you arrive. Note: Free VPNs rarely work. Paid services like Astrill or LetsVPN are more reliable.
2.Bring Your Own Toilet Paper (BYOTP)
Reality: In many public restrooms (even in some tourist spots or train stations), toilet paper is NOT provided in the stall. It might be in a common dispenser at the entrance, or not there at all. Solution: Always carry a pack of tissues or wet wipes in your bag. It is the #1 rule of survival in China.
3. The “Squatty Potty” Challenge
Reality: While hotels and malls have Western-style seated toilets, many public scenic spots (including parts of Hengdian) still use squat toilets. Solution: Start doing your squats now! 🏋️♀️ Also, look for the stall door depicting a seated toilet; there is usually at least one “handicapped/family” stall that is Western-style.
4. Power Banks are Life
Reality: You will be using your phone for everything (paying, navigating, translating, taking photos). If your battery dies, you are literally stranded. Solution: While China has “rental power banks” everywhere, they can be hard for foreigners to rent without a high “Sesame Credit” score. Bring your own high-capacity power bank (10,000mAh) and carry it everywhere.
5. Google Maps Does Not Work
Reality: Google Maps is outdated and often blocked. Solution:
- iPhone Users: Use Apple Maps. It works surprisingly well in China and pulls data from local sources (AutoNavi).
- Android Users: Download Amap (高德地图). The interface is in Chinese, but you can copy-paste addresses into it for accurate navigation.
6. You Need a Local Phone Number (Ideally)
Reality: Many public WiFi networks (at airports or cafes) require an SMS verification code to log in. Apps like DiDi (Uber) also need a number. Solution: If your eSIM comes with a number (like from Hong Kong), great. If not, consider buying a physical SIM card at the airport arrival hall just to receive texts.
7. Get Ready to Walk (A Lot)
Reality: C-Drama sets are huge. The Qin Palace in Hengdian is massive. You will easily clock 20,000+ steps a day. Solution: Do not wear heels or uncomfortable cosplay boots for the whole day unless you are doing a specific photoshoot. Wear your most comfortable broken-in sneakers.
8. Hot Water Culture
Reality: If you ask for water at a restaurant, you will likely get a glass of hot (boiling) water. Solution: Chinese people believe hot water is good for health. If you want cold water, you must explicitly ask for “Bing Shui” (Ice Water), or just buy bottled water from a convenience store. Do not drink tap water.
9. Carry Your Passport Everywhere
Reality: Your passport is not just for the airport. Solution: You need it to:
- Buy train tickets.
- Enter tourist attractions (like the Forbidden City or Hengdian).
- Check into hotels.
- Sometimes even to enter museums.
- Tip: Keep a photo of your passport information page on your phone as a backup.
10. Translation Apps are Your Best Friend
Reality: Outside of Shanghai/Beijing, English proficiency varies. Solution:
- WeChat Scan: Use the “Scan” function in WeChat to instantly translate menus or signs.
- Voice Translation: Download DeepL or Papago. They are often more accurate for Asian languages than Google Translate.
Ready for the Next Step?
Now that you know what to pack, make sure you know how to pay. Without Alipay or WeChat Pay, you won’t be able to buy that bottle of water or pay for your taxi.
👉 Read our Essential Guide: China Travel Essentials: Visa & Payment Guide