Putian Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Communication Essentials

Arrange local SIM cards and understand internet access. Major mobile providers include China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom.

Connectivity

Purchase SIM card at legitimate stores with your passport.
Wi-Internet access is widespread in hotels, restaurants, cafes, and public spaces.
A VPN is needed for international websites/apps; install it before arrival.

Language & Translation

Mandarin Chinese is the official language. A local dialect of Min Mandarin (Putian dialect) is also spoken.

Bridging the Gap

English is not widely spoken outside main hotels.
Use translation apps (Google Translate with VPN, Baidu Translate, Pleco).
Download offline language packs for your translation apps.

Useful Phrases

Learn these phrases to assist communication:

Basic Mandarin

Hello: Nǐ hǎo (nee-haow)
Thank you: Xièxie (shyeh-shyeh)
Pardon me: Duìbuqǐ (dway-boo-chee)

Essential Inquiries

More phrases to provide you with help navigate and ask questions:

Getting Around

How much?: Duōshǎo qián? (dwor-shaow chyen)
I don't understand: Wǒ bù dǒng (wor boo dong)
Where is...?: ... Zài nǎlǐ? (... Zai naa-lee?)

Communication Tools & Services

ESIM & Portable Wi-Fi

For reliable internet, consider Airalo eSIM for flexible internet plans.
Portable Wi-Fi devices from Solis Wi-Fi provide consistent access for several devices.
These options ensure you stay connected for maps, translation, and communication.
To learn basic Mandarin, Rosetta Stone offers language learning solutions.

Postal Services

China Post (中国邮政) branches handle mail and packages.
Look for distinctive green and white signage.
Sending postcards or parcels is straightforward.
Ensure correct addressing and customs declarations.

Internet Usage Advisory

Access to numerous international websites and apps (e.g., Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, X, YouTube) is blocked within China. A VPN must be installed before you arrive inside China, as downloading it once there may prove difficult.

Business & Operating Hours

Understand typical operating hours for businesses in Putian to organize your activities effectively.

Shops & Malls

Generally open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Large retail stores and malls typically stay open longer.

Restaurants

Lunch from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM; dinner from 5:1:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Some local eateries open earlier for breakfast and close later.

Banking Hours

Weekdays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Some branches provide limited weekend services. ATMs are easy to find and accept overseas cards.

Public Holidays

Be aware of religious and public holidays that may alter services. Major public holidays:

Dates

Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year, Jan/Feb).
Qingming Festival (early April).
May Day (May 1-5) & National Day (Oct 1-7).

Seasonal Closures

Seasonal closings and restricted timetables can occur, especially during low season or local festivals.

Travel Advisory

Some smaller attractions may have reduced hours in winter.
Always confirm ahead of time for operating times, particularly for independent establishments.
During holidays, expect crowded transportation and higher prices; book in advance.

Airport Services

Lounge Access

Priority Pass offers independent airport lounge access for regular travelers.
Enjoy comfort and amenities during layovers.
A comfortable space to relax or work prior to your flight.

Flight Disruption Compensation

Compensair assists with claims for flight delays or cancellations.
Receive compensation for qualifying flight disruptions.
The service helps simplify the compensation process.

Advance Planning

For a smoother trip, planning ahead for communication and understanding holiday schedules is highly recommended.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Observe local etiquette and cultural norms for considerate dealings in Putian.

Greetings & Dress

A simple "Ni hao" (hello) is appropriate for greetings, usually with a slight nod. Shaking hands is common in formal settings.

Attire

Casual dress is fine for daily activities.
Modest attire, with shoulders and knees covered, is expected at temples.
This practice shows respect for sacred environments.

Dining Practices

Dining and tipping practices differ from Western norms.

Table Manners

Do not stick chopsticks upright in rice.
Making slurping noises for noodles is usually acceptable.
Tipping is not customary or expected and may be seen as an insult.

Photography & Privacy

Photography ethics and issues with privacy require attention.

Respectful Practices

Always ask for permission before photographing individuals.
Respect "no pictures" signs in temples, museums, or the military areas.
Be discreet and respect people's right to privacy.

Sensitive Topics & Symbolism

Don't get into debates regarding sensitive political topics and consider local symbolism.

Cultural distinctions

Steer clear of talks on topics like Taiwan, Tibet, or Tiananmen Square.
Do not openly criticize the government or Chinese culture.
The number "4" is considered unlucky, sounding similar to "death."

Social Conduct & LGBTQ+

Public Displays of Affection

Public displays of affection are generally less common.
Observe local norms and be careful.
Local expectations for behavior in public differ.

LGBTQ+ Considerations

LGBTQ+ rights are limited.
Public expression of LGBTQ+ identity may be less visible/accepted than in major international hubs.
Discretion is recommended in smaller cities like Putian.

Accessibility Information

Mobility Challenges

Accessibility infrastructure is generally limited outside new hotels/malls.
Older buildings, public transport (buses), and sidewalks might not have ramps.
Taxis/ride-sharing (Didi) offer more flexibility in contrast with public buses.

Sensory Impairments

Services for the visually or hearing impaired are limited.
Information and signage are predominantly in Chinese.
Research and pre-planning are for travelers with specific needs.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Requirements can vary based on nationality and purpose of visit.

Standard Tourist Visa L-Visa

Most international travelers to China require a L-Visa for tourism purposes.

Application Process

Apply at a Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country.
Required documents: passport, visa application form, photo, flight/hotel bookings, itinerary.
Submit your application early; processing times are different.

Visa-Free Transit Policies

China offers visa-free transit policies for certain nationalities transiting through specific cities.

Policies

24-hour, 72-hour, plus ONE44-hour visa-free transit.
Requires onward travel to a third country/region.
Fuzhou and Xiamen offer 144-hour transit; Putian does not have direct international transit.

Special Entry Permits

Some regions or specific circumstances allow for alternative entry rules.

Regional Rules

Hainan Island offers visa-free access for certain groups.
Check official sources for specific eligibility and conditions.
These policies do not typically apply to direct entry into Putian.

Visa Application Tips

For a victorious visa application, attention to detail is of utmost importance.

Advice

Ensure all documents are complete and accurate.
Provide a recent, compliant passport-style photo.
Start your application well in advance of your travel dates.

Health & Safety Travel Advisory

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering health crises and travel cancellations.

Medical Facilities

Major cities have modern hospitals; smaller towns offer basic care. Bring any essential personal medications.

Local Safety

Putian is generally safe, but be aware of petty theft in crowded tourist areas. Keep valuables secure.

Official Information Source

Always ask the official website of the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your country for the most present and accurate information about visas before making travel plans.

Putian Travel Tips