Xiamen Fujian, China Travel Guide
Chronological planning and stairways prepare you for your Xiamen adventure.
Follow these process for a smooth journey.
Ensure passport expiration at least six months beyond your stay and two blank pages.
Begin your visa application process early; this could require several weeks.
Research itinerary and make a reservation for your international and major domestic flights to Xiamen.
Fasten all your hotel or accommodation bookings for your entire trip.
Book high-speed rail tickets if you plan inter-city travel, especially for peak seasons.
Obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, cancellation, and lost luggage.
Reconfirm all your flight, hotel, train, and tour bookings.
Organize original passport and visa. Make several photocopies and store them separately. Save digital copies.
Ensure WeChat, Alipay, Didi Chuxing, Baidu Maps navigation/Amap, and a translation app are downloaded and set up.
Confirm these essential bookings well in advance.
A little preparation goes a long way.
Before you leave, care for your home and gather medical supplies.
Double-check your passport validity and visa requirements several months before your trip. These are often the longest lead-time items.
Your first hours in Xiamen set the tone for your trip.
Present your passport and visa. Prepare for fingerprint and facial scans.
If you purchased a physical SIM card, activate it. If you have an eSIM, connect to the local network.
Find airport Wi-Fi and connect. Immediately activate your VPN to access blocked sites and apps.
Find signs for the underground, airport shuttle buses, or taxi stands.
Obtain a physical map or ensure your online map app (Baidu Maps navigation/Amap) is working.
Have your accommodation's address clearly written in Chinese characters for taxi drivers or for showing locals.
Plan your souvenir purchases in advance. Inquire about shipping options for large or fragile items from the vendor.
Factor in shipping costs and customs duties for your home country.
China has a limited tax refund scheme for foreign tourists on specific goods purchased from eligible stores.
This requires specific forms and processes at the airport's customs office. Keep all receipts and forms ready.
Make sure you have enough time for the airport check-in, luggage drop-off, and security. International flights require more time.
Return any rented items (e.g., bicycles, special equipment) before heading to the airport or train station.
Ensure a small amount of Chinese Yuan for immediate needs upon arrival, or verify your ATM card is suitable for international withdrawals.
