Entry Visa to China
Entry Visa is a credential that allows people to enter and leave a country or transit across its borders. All foreign visitors traveling to mainland China whether for business or pleasure require a visa. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the duration of your intended stay. Visas are issued through Chinese embassies and consulates overseas.
Currency
The currency in China is called Renminbi, and is issued by the national bank — the People's Bank of China. The units of Renminbi are Yuan, Jiao and Fen. The paper money comes in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 50 and 100 Yuan. The Jiao's denomination can be 1, 2, 5; similarly with the Fen. 10 Fen is 1 Jiao and 10 Jiao is 1 Yuan. There is also coinage for 1 Yuan, 5 Jiao as well as 1, 2 and 5 Fen. But Fen is not commonly used in the coin form in daily life. The abbreviation of Renminbi is RMB or CNY with its symbol of ￥. Colloquially, Chinese, people often say Kuai and Mao instead of Yuan and Jiao.
Foreign Currency Exchange
Foreign currency and traveler's cheques are not regularly used in China, so you have to exchange them for Chinese Yuan only at Bank of China or the banks' cash centers at major airports and hotels.
Foreign credit cards available in China
Master Card
Visa Card
American Express Card
JCB Card
Diners Card
Actually China is still a cash-dominated country. But there are places like star-rated hotels, chain international shopping malls, etc, which do accept credit cards/ traveler's cheques. But most other places might have difficulty handling credit card/TC payment. ATM of Bank of China is easily found throughout; therefore, you draw RMB with your credit cards.
Tipping
Tipping is not common practice in most sectors of Chinese life, although it has become the norm to tip the tour guide and driver, hotel bellboy in recognition of their good service. It is not customary to leave tips at local restaurants. Of course you don't have to. However, anything you do give will be much appreciated.
Business Hours
Kiosks, small shops, supermarkets and department stores open from 8:30-9:30 to 21:30-22:30 everyday. Many kiosks and small shops open earlier and close later. Most big restaurants open from 10:30-11:00 to 21:30 -22:00 everyday, with an afternoon break from 14:30 to 17:00. Small restaurants supplying breakfast opens much earlier at 7:00 and don’t have an afternoon break. Their business hours are always longer during weekends and holidays.
Drinking Water
The tap water in China is undrinkable. Get drinkable water from water dispensers or buy mineral water in supermarkets. Mineral water prices range from RMB 1 to RMB 10. The recommended brands of mineral water in China are Wa Ha Ha, Nestle and Nongfu Spring.
Religious Beliefs
China is a nation where numerous religions are practiced. These beliefs include Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Catholicism and Christianity. Chinese citizens can freely choose and express their own beliefs, and make clear their religious affiliations.
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