I. Language

China is a country with multiple ethnic groups, languages, and writing systems. There are 56 ethnic groups, with over 80 languages and approximately 30 writing systems.

The official language is Putonghua (Mandarin). It is called Guoyu in Taiwan, Huayu in Singapore and Malaysia, and Putonghua in China.

II. Currency

The currency unit is the Renminbi (RMB), with the symbol ￥. Banknotes come in denominations of 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, and 1 yuan. Coins come in denominations of 1 yuan, 5 jiao, 2 jiao, and 1 jiao.
Exchange Rate: Please refer to the Bank of Taiwan website (https://rate.bot.com.tw/).

III. Time Zone

There is no time difference between China and Taiwan; both are GMT+8.

Due to time zone conventions, only the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region operates on a schedule 2 hours behind China Standard Time (CST). All other regions follow China Standard Time.

IV. Voltage

The voltage in China is 220 volts. Outlets typically accept two flat pins or a V-shape (flat pins set at an angle). It is advisable to bring a travel adapter and/or voltage converter if necessary.

V. Climate

China's climate is characterized by its continental monsoon climate and its complex diversity. Winters feature prevailing north winds, summers feature prevailing south winds, with four distinct seasons and concurrent rain and heat.

From September to April each year, dry, cold winter winds blow from Siberia and the Mongolian Plateau, weakening from north to south, resulting in cold, dry conditions and significant temperature differences between north and south.

The summer monsoon influence is shorter, from April to September each year, when warm, moist air flows from the oceans, leading to generally high temperatures and rain with minimal temperature differences between north and south.

VI. Telephone Communication

• Calling China from Taiwan (Landline): Taiwan International Access Code (002) + China Country Code (86) + City Area Code (omit the first 0) + Phone Number

  • Example: Calling Shanghai from Taiwan: 002 + 86 + 21 + Shanghai Phone Number

• Calling China from Taiwan (Mobile): Taiwan International Access Code (002) + China Country Code (86) + Mobile Number (omit the first 0)

  • Example: 002 + 86 + Mobile Number (omit the first 0)

• Calling Taiwan from China (Landline): China International Access Code (00) + Taiwan Country Code (886) + City Area Code (omit the first 0) + Phone Number

  • Example: Calling Taipei from China: 00 + 886 + 2 + Taipei Phone Number

• Calling Taiwan from China (Mobile): China International Access Code (00) + Taiwan Country Code (886) + Mobile Number (omit the first 0)

  • Example: 00 + 886 + Mobile Number (omit the first 0)

VII. Customs and Traditions

China is a multi-religious country. The main religions include Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Catholicism, Protestantism, and Tibetan Buddhism.

China has been a unified multi-ethnic country since ancient times. Different provinces or regions may have different customs and practices. It is recommended that travelers respect local customs.

VIII. Clothing

Temperatures in China can be lower than in Taiwan. Consider bringing one or two extra pieces of warm clothing. In winter, bring a warm coat, especially as mountain areas can be cold in the evenings. Bring rain gear if possible to avoid wind and cold.

Winter clothing suggestions: Hat, scarf, gloves, wool socks, thermal underwear, sweaters, warm overcoat, face mask.

Summer clothing suggestions: Similar to Taiwan's summer weather; light, breathable, and quick-drying clothes are best.

Ladies should try to avoid wearing high heels. It is recommended to wear flat casual shoes or sneakers. Try to avoid wearing new shoes to prevent blisters from affecting your enjoyment.

IX. Food and Drink:

Tap water in China is not potable. It is recommended to purchase bottled mineral water for drinking.

X. Local Telecommunications:

In China, due to official internet regulations, access to commonly used communication apps and websites (e.g., Facebook, Line, Yahoo, Google, etc.) is restricted. All WiFi systems used within China will be subject to these restrictions.

Using international data roaming (from your Taiwanese provider) is not subject to these Chinese restrictions. However, please check roaming fees and usage methods with your respective Taiwanese telecom service provider. Thank you.