China Travel Accommodation Guide: Essential Tips for Foreign Visitors

Choosing the right accommodation can make or break your travel experience in China. Whether you’re a backpacker, a business traveler, or a vacationer, finding the perfect place to stay will ensure a comfortable and hassle-free trip. This guide covers everything from types of accommodations to booking tips and cultural considerations, tailored specifically for foreign visitors.

How to Choose the Right Accommodation?

1. Select Based on Your Budget

• Budget-Friendly Options (￥100-300/night):
  Ideal for travelers on a tight budget, these include chain hotels like Home Inn, Hanting, and 7 Days Inn, as well as hostels. These accommodations offer basic but clean facilities, though some may not provide toiletries.
• Mid-Range Hotels (￥300-800/night):
  These are typically 3- or 4-star hotels with more spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and 24-hour front desk services. Perfect for those seeking comfort without breaking the bank.
• Luxury Stays (￥800+/night):
  Five-star hotels, resorts, and boutique guesthouses offer top-notch amenities like gyms, hot springs, and private butler services. These are ideal for business travelers or those looking for a lavish experience.
• Unique Stays:
  For a deeper cultural immersion, consider:
  ✔ Beijing Courtyard Houses (traditional Chinese courtyards)
  ✔ Water Town Inns (Jiangnan-style lodgings)
  ✔ Tibetan Homestays in Yunnan (ethnic cultural experiences)
  ✔ Fujian Tulou (traditional circular buildings)

2. Location Matters

• Near Major Attractions:
  Great for short trips, reducing travel time. For example, staying near the Forbidden City in Beijing or the Bund in Shanghai.
• Close to Transport Hubs:
  Choose accommodations near subway stations or train stations for easy access to attractions.
• Quiet Areas:
  If you prefer tranquility, opt for quieter neighborhoods with good transport links, like Beijing’s hutongs or hotels around Hangzhou’s West Lake.
• City vs. Small Town:
  In big cities like Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Chengdu, stay near subway stations. In smaller towns like Lijiang or Dali, choose boutique inns or family-run guesthouses within walking distance of attractions.

3. Best Ways to Book

• Local Platforms (Chinese Support):
  ✔ Ctrip: The largest travel platform in China, offering hotels, flights, and car rentals.
  ✔ Qunar: Great for price comparisons and finding deals.
  ✔ Meituan/Fliggy: Ideal for short stays and local guesthouses.
• International Platforms (Multilingual Support):
  ✔ Booking.com: Best for chain and luxury hotels.
  ✔ Agoda: Great for discounts in Asia.
  ✔ Airbnb: Perfect for unique stays and apartments.

Pro Tips:
✔ Book early during holidays like Chinese New Year or National Day (October) to avoid price hikes.
✔ Check cancellation policies for flexibility.

What to Know When Checking In

1. Document Requirements

• Foreign visitors must present their passport for check-in. Some hotels may also ask for your visa and entry stamp.
• In regions like Tibet and Xinjiang, additional travel permits may be required.

2. Language Barriers

• In big cities and luxury hotels, English service is usually available.
• In smaller towns or guesthouses, English may be limited. Prepare by:
  ✔ Downloading translation apps like Baidu Translate or Google Translate.
  ✔ Learning basic phrases like “I have a reservation” (Wǒ yǒu yùdìng).

3. Payment and Deposits

• Common Payment Methods:
  ✔ WeChat Pay/Alipay: Widely used, but foreign credit cards may not work.
  ✔ UnionPay: Accepted almost everywhere.
  ✔ Visa/MasterCard: Only in high-end or international chain hotels.
• Some hotels may require a deposit (cash or credit card hold), refundable upon check-out.

4. Health and Safety

• Inspect your room upon arrival for cleanliness. Request a room change if needed.
• Store valuables like passports and cash in the hotel safe.

5. Local Policies

• In Tibet and Xinjiang, foreign visitors may face additional restrictions.
• During health crises, hotels may require a Health Code or negative test results.
• Some budget hotels don’t provide toiletries, so bring your own.

Cultural Differences and Travel Tips

• Chinese vs. Western Hotels:
  ✔ Some hotels may restrict unregistered guests from entering rooms.
  ✔ Staff may enter without knocking (e.g., housekeeping). Inform the front desk of your privacy preferences.
  ✔ Smaller guesthouses in remote areas may not accept foreign guests. Stick to reputable hotels or chains.
• Peak vs. Off-Peak Seasons:
  ✔ Peak (summer, Golden Week): Higher prices; book early.
  ✔ Off-Peak (November-March): Lower prices; discounts available.
• Finding Great Stays:
  ✔ Check social media (e.g., Xiaohongshu) for reviews and recommendations.
  ✔ Ask locals like taxi drivers or guides for hidden gems.

Summary

• Choose accommodations that fit your budget: budget-friendly, mid-range, luxury, or unique stays.
• Prioritize locations near transport hubs, attractions, or quiet areas.
• Book early, especially during holidays, to secure the best rates.
• Bring your passport and understand local policies for a smooth check-in.
• Prepare payment methods like Alipay, WeChat Pay, or UnionPay.
• Respect cultural differences to avoid misunderstandings.

This guide will help you navigate your stay in China with ease. If you’re planning a Sichuan travel adventure, consider exploring Sichuan attractions like Chengdu’s vibrant city life, the serene Jiuzhaigou Valley, or the cultural richness of Tibetan areas. For more tailored advice, feel free to ask!