[Official Guide] First 72 Hours in China: The Ultimate Action Checklist
Stay2CN Official Guide | Newbie Q&A | May 2026Your first three days set the tone for your entire China experience. Follow this checklist in order.
Hour 0–6: Airport Arrival
☐ Go through immigration (have passport, onward ticket, hotel address ready)
☐ Collect luggage
☐ Exchange some cash (¥500–1,000) at the airport — rate isn't great but you need cash backup
☐ Buy a SIM card or activate your eSIM
☐ Get to your accommodation (metro/taxi/Didi)
Hour 6–24: Settle In
☐ Connect to hotel WiFi and test your VPN
☐ Download/update apps: Alipay, WeChat, Baidu Maps, DiDi
☐ Set up Alipay with your foreign card (see our Payment Setup guide)
☐ Walk around your neighborhood to orient yourself
☐ Find the nearest convenience store (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson)
☐ Eat your first meal — preferably something simple near your hotel
☐ Sleep (jet lag is real)
Day 2: Get Mobile
☐ Test your mobile payment at a small purchase (bottle of water, street snack)
☐ Take the metro somewhere — get comfortable with the system
☐ Buy a metro card or confirm your phone works at the gates
☐ Visit a major landmark near you (keeps it low-stress)
☐ Try a local restaurant with picture menus
☐ Stock up on essentials: water, snacks, tissues, hand sanitizer
Day 3: Explore & Plan
☐ Visit a morning market or local breakfast spot
☐ Book tickets for must-see attractions (Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors, etc.)
☐ Confirm your transport for upcoming trips (train tickets, flights)
☐ Take a walking tour (many cities have free English walking tours)
☐ Find a cafe with WiFi for planning and rest
☐ Join at least one WeChat group for your city
By Day 3, You Should Be Able To:
• Pay for things with your phone
• Navigate the metro without panic
• Order food by pointing
• Recognize your neighborhood
• Know where to get help if needed
What's the first thing you do when you land in a new country?
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