No matter where you’re going, it’s likely you’ll want to snag a few digital essentials. For one, load up a translator app, and get yourself a VPN (you’ll be glad you did in the end). Make sure you get an e-wallet like Alipay, WeChat Pay, JD Pay you will want to have those set up and ready to go. Chinese applications permeate a lot of daily life, cash may not always be king.
Pro Tip before you even land: First, install a Translator & VPN
Also, don’t forget a universal power adapter. I say this with all sincerity – without that little device, your phone charger and a Chinese outlet will not get along.
So… What is this 10-Day Visa-Free Transit thing?
China is actually giving travelers a way to enter the country, visa-free for 10 full days and this applies to some nationalities. Technically speaking, it is a transit policy — but this gives the traveler a good window of time to explore as long at the traveler does not breach local regulations or overstay.
To preemptively answer the most likely question, NO, this does not mean you have to sign up for a complete luxury tour; in fact, this site is created specifically for the budget traveler looking for some culture, scenery, and panda-like cuteness without breaking the bank.
The Complete Budget Itinerary: Three Routes, Six Cities, Ten Days of Amazingness
This is not a dogmatic timeline. It’s a conceptual idea that blends culture, food, and nature — while allowing for seamless transit. And yes, you can easily do it using trains, buses, or low-cost domestic flights.
Route 1: Beijing + Shanghai
Total vibe: Iconic sights + modern skyline
- Beijing
- The Great Wall (cheap day trip, or in some sections you can even do it for free)
- Temple of Heaven (a serene, historical place)
- Forbidden City (get your fix once)
- Shanghai
- Oriental Pearl Tower (amazing view, for a few bucks)
- Shanghai World Financial Centre (say ‘hi!’ to the skyline selfie!)
- Pudong Art Museum (art meets architecture)
Route 2: Chengdu + Chongqing
- Chengdu
- Giant Panda Breeding
- Ancient temples — usually come at no cost or donation only
- Street food. The holy grail of sichuan hotpot
- Chongqing
- Take the famous cable car
- Try local street snacks at night markets (super cheap and super yummy)
Option 3: Guilin + Yangshuo
Overall vibe: Green countryside, relaxed atmosphere, no highrises
Guilin
Take a boat ride on the Li River – the karst mountain scenery is surreal
Yangshuo
Bike around rice paddies and ancient villages
Immerse yourself in nature, take amazing pictures, or just drink tea in a quiet courtyard
Budget Travel Tips That Work in China
- Before you arrive, plan all your locations and activities
- Book all your flights and hostels before you arrive – last minute prices are high
- Use public transportation
- When eating, avoid international chains – local spots are cheaper and better
- Bring your own water bottle
- Look for seasonal travel promotions and discounts
- For certain spots like the entrance fee, check if group tours offer good prices (do the research)
The Catch? No Flights Included — but it’s Still Worth It
This itinerary doesn’t include international airfare OR local transit between cities, but even by the time you add your hostels, your local eats, and your train tickets, the trip can still cost much, much less than $500 – $700 for the entire 10-day trip if you play it smart.
And you’ll come back with panda selfies, hiking memories, hotpot cravings, and probably some crazy stories from a sleeper train where things went a little ‘off the rails’.
10 Days, No Visa, No Excuses
China’s brand new 10-day visa-free rule is a golden opportunity for travelers who want to experience a taste of a BIG diverse country – with all the headache of bureaucracy. Whatever your reasons for visiting, whether it be food, pictures, history, nature, there are plenty of ways, and many chances to make your visit valuable.
Just remember, bring your sense of curiosity, your comfy shoes, and maybe a layer of tolerance to spice!
