Voltage & Frequency: China operates on 220V AC, 50Hz (compared to 110V in North America, 230V in Europe).
Plug Types: Primarily Type I (two angled flat pins) and Type A/C adapters also common. Rarely Type B (three rectangular pins).
Universal Adapters: Purchase before arrival or at Shanghai airport (avoid Suzhou airports/shops with inflated prices). Budget hotels may have limited spare adapters.
Voltage Converters: Essential for North American 110V appliances. European 230V devices typically work fine (check device rating). Don't rely on USB chargers as sole power source.
Where to Get Adapters: Airport shops, electronics markets (Suzhou's Loumen Electronics Market), major malls. Cost: 20-50 RMB depending on style.
Power Availability: Hotels provide power in rooms; cafés and restaurants have limited outlets. Some museums lack charging stations.