Top 7 Things Western Travelers Get Wrong About China

Thinking of visiting China? You’re not alone — and you’re probably not fully prepared.Even seasoned travelers are surprised by what actually happens once they land in Beijing, Shanghai, or Chengdu. Let’s clear up some of the biggest misconceptions that Western tourists often have, and help you enjoy your China trip the smart way.

1. “Everyone Speaks English in Big Cities”

Reality: Outside of high-end hotels and major airports, English is rarely spoken. Even in Shanghai or Shenzhen, most taxi drivers, restaurant servers, and shopkeepers don’t speak it.

Smart tip: Download offline translation apps (like Pleco or Baidu Translate) and prepare basic Chinese phrases. Also, keep key locations written in Chinese on your phone for easier communication.

2. “I Can Use My Credit Card or Apple Pay Anywhere”

Reality: China is a mobile payment-first country — WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate, and foreign credit cards are often useless.

Smart tip: Set up WeChat/Alipay with your passport and a foreign bank card. Or preload a Chinese SIM-based digital wallet. ( [See our full guide to payment in China])

3. “VPN? I’ll Just Download It in China”

Reality: VPN websites are blocked in China. If you wait until you’re there to set it up, it’s too late.

Smart tip: Download and install a VPN like ExpressVPN or NordVPN before arriving. Test it first. Also, don’t rely 100% on it — it can be unstable during certain events or seasons.

4. “Google Maps Will Be Fine”

Reality: Google services are blocked. Google Maps loads slowly or not at all. And even Apple Maps may show offset locations due to China’s unique coordinate system.

Smart tip: Use Baidu Maps (with translation help) or install Maps.me with offline Chinese city maps.

5. “I’ll Just Use WhatsApp and Instagram”

Reality: WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube… all blocked.

Smart tip: Again, use a VPN. Or use alternative platforms like WeChat to stay in touch. Many travelers even enjoy the “digital detox.”

6. “Chopsticks and Chinese Food Are the Same Everywhere”

Reality: Chinese cuisine is extremely diverse. If you expect only sweet-and-sour chicken, you’re in for a spicy surprise — literally, if you visit Sichuan!

Smart tip: Explore local food regions. Research common dishes by region so you’re not shocked when you find duck blood soup in Nanjing.

7. “Tipping Is Expected Like in the West”

Reality: Tipping is not part of Chinese culture and can be confusing or even rejected.

Smart tip: No tips needed at restaurants or taxis. High-end hotels may accept small gratuities, but it’s optional.

Final Thoughts: Expect the Unexpected

Visiting China is eye-opening in the best possible way — if you’re ready. By unlearning a few assumptions, you’ll have a smoother, smarter, and more culturally aware trip.

Explore more:

[Smart Travel Essentials for China]
[How to Use 1688 as a Foreigner]
[WeChat & Alipay: Beginner’s Guide]