China Daily Useful Info

Transportation
Public Transport: Utilize extensive metro systems in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou for convenient and affordable travel.
Taxi Services: Available in urban areas; use apps like Didi for booking and payment.
High-Speed Rail: Efficient for intercity travel; book tickets in advance via official websites or mobile apps.
Bicycles: Shared bike services like Mobike and Ofo are popular for short-distance travel in cities.
Communication
Language: Mandarin Chinese (Putonghua) is the official language; English may be limited outside major cities.
Mobile Services: Purchase SIM cards from China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom; passport required for registration.
Internet Access: High-speed internet widely available; use VPNs for accessing blocked websites.
Currency and Banking
Currency: Renminbi (RMB or CNY); denominations include yuan (元) and jiao (角).
Banking: ATMs widely available; major credit cards accepted in urban areas; UnionPay is dominant.
Health and Safety
Healthcare: Public hospitals available, but private clinics recommended for expediency; carry health insurance.
Safety: Generally safe; take precautions against petty crime in crowded areas; emergency number is 110 for police.
Cultural Etiquette
Greetings: Address people with courtesy titles (Mr., Mrs., etc.); handshake common in business settings.
Dining: Practice good table manners; offer to pay or split bills when dining with others.
Gifts: Present gifts with both hands; avoid items associated with unlucky numbers like 4.
Shopping and Services
Shopping Hours: Malls and shops typically open from 10 AM to 10 PM; negotiate prices in markets.
Supermarkets: Carrefour, Walmart, and local chains like Jingkelong offer a variety of goods.
Utilities: Set up electricity, water, and gas services through local providers upon moving into accommodation.
Weather and Climate
Seasons: Four distinct seasons; winters cold in the north, hot and humid summers in the south.
Air Quality: Monitor air quality levels, particularly in major cities; wear masks during high pollution periods.
Travel and Tourism
Visa: Obtain necessary visas for entry; check validity and restrictions before travel.
Tourist Sites: Visit historical landmarks, scenic spots, and cultural sites; purchase tickets in advance during peak seasons.
Emergency Contacts
Police: 110
Fire: 119
Medical Emergency: 120
Traffic Accident: 122
Conclusion
Understanding these essential aspects of daily life in China will help navigate and enjoy your experience in this diverse and dynamic country. Whether for travel, work, or study, preparation and awareness of local customs and services ensure a smoother and more enjoyable stay.