The First 24 Hours After Landing: What to Do in Order
Stay2CN | Border Entry Experiences | May 2026Your first day sets the tone. Here's the exact order that works.
Hour 0–2: Immigration & Exit
• Have passport, onward ticket, hotel address ready
• Fill arrival card (paper or digital QR)
• Get stamped, collect bags, clear customs
Hour 2–4: Connectivity & Cash
• Connect to airport WiFi, test your VPN
• Buy SIM/eSIM or activate roaming
• Exchange ¥500–1,000 cash at airport (bad rate, but you need backup)
Hour 4–6: Get to Accommodation
• Metro: cheapest, ¥25–50 to city center
• Didi: easiest with luggage, ¥100–200
• Airport bus: middle ground, ¥30–50
Hour 6–12: Set Up Basics
• Download WeChat, Alipay, Baidu Maps
• Set up mobile payment with foreign card
• Walk around your neighborhood — find convenience store, metro entrance, backup restaurant
Hour 12–24: Eat & Sleep
• Keep dinner simple — hotel restaurant or nearby cafe with pictures
• Don't plan ambitious sightseeing on day one
• Sleep early, fight jet lag
Day 2: Now you're ready to actually explore.
What do you always do first when you land in a new country?
Stay2CN Team
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