Travel Guide

I. Language
China is a multi-ethnic and multilingual country with 56 recognized ethnic groups and over 80 languages. The official language is Standard Chinese (Mandarin), known as 普通話 (Pǔtōnghuà) in mainland China, 國語 (Guóyǔ) in Taiwan, and 華語 (Huáyǔ) in Singapore and Malaysia. 
II. Currency
The currency is the Renminbi (RMB, ￥).

• Banknotes: 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, and 1 yuan

• Coins: 1 yuan, 5 jiao, 2 jiao, 1 jiao

III. Time Difference
China and Taiwan share the same time zone (GMT+8).
Due to geography, Xinjiang operates daily life about two hours later than Central Standard Time, though official time remains GMT+8.
IV. Electricity
China uses 220V voltage. Plugs are mainly two-flat-pin or angled two-pin types. Travelers are advised to bring adapters or voltage converters if needed.
V. Climate
China’s climate is characterized by continental monsoons and great regional diversity:

• Winter (Sept–Apr): Cold, dry northern winds, large north–south temperature differences.

• Summer (Apr–Sept): Warm, humid southern winds, generally hot and rainy, with smaller regional differences.

VI. Telephone & Communication

• From Taiwan to China (landline): 002 + 86 + area code (without 0) + number

  • Example: To Shanghai → 002 + 86 + 21 + number

• From Taiwan to China (mobile): 002 + 86 + mobile number (omit first 0)

• From China to Taiwan (landline): 00 + 886 + area code (without 0) + number

  • Example: To Taipei → 00 + 886 + 2 + number

• From China to Taiwan (mobile): 00 + 886 + mobile number (omit first 0)

VII. Customs & Culture
China is a multi-religious nation, with Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Catholicism, Protestantism, and Tibetan Buddhism widely practiced.
As a historically unified, multi-ethnic country, customs vary across provinces and regions. Visitors are encouraged to respect local traditions.
VIII. Clothing
Temperatures in China are generally lower than in Taiwan. Prepare appropriate clothing:

• Winter: Warm coats, hats, scarves, gloves, thick socks, thermal wear, sweaters, masks.

• Summer: Light, breathable clothing suitable for hot, humid conditions.

• Footwear: Women are advised to avoid high heels. Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are recommended to prevent blisters.

IX. Food & Water
Tap water in China is not safe for direct consumption. Bottled mineral water is recommended.
X. Internet & Telecom
Due to government restrictions, popular apps and websites (e.g., Facebook, Line, Yahoo, Google) may be inaccessible in China. All local Wi-Fi networks are subject to these restrictions.
International roaming, however, is not affected but may be costly. Please check with your Taiwan telecom provider for rates and options.