Voltage & Frequency: China operates on 220V alternating current (AC) at 50 Hz frequency. This differs from North America (110V, 60Hz) and some other regions (230V, 50Hz). Device compatibility depends on voltage range specifications.
Plug Types: Mainland China primarily uses Type A, Type C, and Type I plugs. Type A: Two flat parallel pins (North American standard). Type C: Two round pins (European standard). Type I: Two flat angle pins (Australian standard). Most hotels have multiple socket types available.
Adapter Recommendations: Universal travel adapters recommended for reliability. Purchase quality brands before traveling. Hangzhou hotels provide adapters at reception (sometimes for deposit). Electronics stores sell adapters (50-100 RMB). Multiple adapters recommended for simultaneous device charging.
Device Compatibility: Check device labels for voltage range. "100-240V" devices work in China. "100-120V only" devices require step-down transformer (expensive, not recommended). Most modern devices (phones, laptops, cameras) accept 220V. Never force incompatible plugs.
Power Strips: Bring quality extension strips with USB ports. Hotel rooms often have limited outlets in convenient locations. USB chargers increasingly standard in accommodations. Outlet strips with surge protection protect expensive electronics.