Quick Facts

All international travellers require visas although Brunei, Japan, and Singapore passport holders are able to enjoy visa-free access to China for up to 15 days.

Standard 30-day, single-entry visas can be issued in three to five working days from most Chinese embassies, and must be used within three months of the date of issue. Longer visas are often more difficult to obtain.

For further details, consult with your travel agent, China International Travel Service, China Travel Service, or any Chinese embassy or consulate.

View visa requirements from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China

The Chinese currency is known as renminbi (RMB). Credit cards are accepted in major hotels as well as shopping malls.

Here are the most recent exchange rates for some common currencies.

RMB 1.00 equals:

In compliance with regulations, with effect 1 May 2016, all room, food and beverage and hotel services will be subject to Value Added Tax at the prevailing rates. At the same time, Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts will reduce service charge from 15% to 10%.

Many mid-range and top-end restaurants generally include their own service charge which varies between establishments.

Officially, tipping is considered inappropriate and is discouraged.

Bank Hours
8:30am - 5:30pm, Monday to Friday.

Office Hours 
8:30am - 5:30pm, Monday to Friday.

Shopping Hours
8 / 9am - 9pm or later throughout the week.

Visitors entering China are required to complete a health declaration form. Check with your local doctor or health care professional about vaccination requirements before you plan your trip.

Traders Hotel, Beijing, recommends you drink only boiled or bottled water. Complimentary bottled drinking water is available in every room.

Dress is generally informal in Beijing except on social, diplomatic or government occasions when formal attire (suit and tie) is appropriate.  

Dress is generally informal in Beijing except on social, diplomatic or government occasions when formal attire (suit and tie) is appropriate.

Winter requires heavy clothing, including coats, hats and gloves as temperatures can drop to well below 0C with strong winds. Light clothing is sufficient for spring and summer months.