Voltage & Frequency: China uses 220 volts AC at 50 Hz. Different from most Western countries (110V/60Hz).
Plug Types: Primary plug type is Chinese Type A/I (two flat pins, sometimes with round pin). Other types include Type C (European two round pins) and Type B (three pins). Many sockets accept multiple types.
Adapters Required: If arriving with North American (Type B) or UK (Type G) plugs, universal adapters essential. Multi-type travel adapters recommended. Available at airports, hotels, and electronics stores.
Voltage Converters: Essential for 110V appliances. Dual-voltage devices (many chargers, adapters) work with 220V. Check device specifications before plugging in.
WiFi & Internet: Most hotels and restaurants offer free WiFi. Quality varies; mobile hotspots sometimes more reliable. China requires WeChat Pay or Alipay for many services; international cards have limitations.
Mobile Phones: China uses GSM networks. Check compatibility with local carriers (China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom). Purchase local SIM cards at airports (inexpensive). International roaming expensive.
Important Apps: Download WeChat, Alipay, Didi, Google Translate (before arriving as Google blocked in mainland). Offline maps also helpful given GPS inconsistencies.