Journal

How the 10-day visa-free transit policy works — who qualifies, the third-country rule, where you can go and what to show at the airport.

The full picture of China's visa exemptions — 30-day visa-free countries, 240-hour transit and who still needs a visa.

A 60-second answer — whether your passport needs a Chinese visa, which type to apply for and the documents you'll need.

Which VPNs reliably bypass the Great Firewall, how to install one before you fly, and why roaming eSIMs are the newer workaround.

The difference between the official 12306 English app and Trip.com, when tickets go on sale, and how to board with just your passport.

The two most popular Great Wall sections compared — crowds, scenery, cable cars and how to reach each from Beijing.

Tickets release exactly 7 days ahead at 8pm Beijing time and vanish in minutes — here's exactly how to get yours.

Spring and autumn are the sweet spots, but every month has a reason to go — a month-by-month guide to weather, crowds and festivals.

China's busiest travel week explained — when it is, why you should avoid it, and where to go instead.

Beyond the heat — mapo tofu, kung pao chicken, hot pot and the lesser-known dishes to order in Chengdu.

The broth, the dipping sauce, the must-order ingredients — how to survive (and love) your first hot pot.

Real budgets for China — daily costs for budget, mid-range and comfortable travel, plus where the money actually goes.