Heshan Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Essential Preparations

Follow a timeline to manage tasks efficiently.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Organize your preparations for a smooth journey.

1

Months Before

Passport Validity

Check passport validity (6 months beyond travel, 2 blank pages).

Visa Application

Research and apply for China visa; process may take weeks.

Health Consultation

Consult a travel doctor for vaccinations.

2

Month Before

Book Flights & Accommodations

Book international flights to Changsha (CSX) and initial lodging.

App Downloads & VPN

Download WeChat, Alipay, Baidu Maps, and your VPN (NordVPN) BEFORE arrival.

Bank & Language

Inform bank of travel; learn basic Mandarin phrases.

3

Week Before

Confirm Bookings & Packing

Confirm all bookings; pack climate-appropriate clothing & medications.

Document Copies

Make digital and physical copies of all documents.

Airport Transfer

Arrange transfer from Changsha Huanghua Airport to Yiyang/Heshan.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items for a smooth experience.

Reservations

International Flights to CSX
China Visa
First Night's Accommodation
High-Speed Train Tickets (e.g., Changsha to Yiyang via Trip.com)

Pre-Trip Research

Deepen your understanding before arrival.

Cultural & Practical Research

Become acquainted with basic Chinese etiquette and cultural norms.
Research Heshan's attractions, dining options, and local specialties.
Understand the local mass transitation system (buses, ride-sharing).

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure your home is managed while you are away.

Mail & Pets

Arrange mail collection.
Coordinate pet care or house-sitting.

Security

Secure your home (lock doors, windows).
Notify neighbors of your absence.

Financials

Pay any outstanding bills.

Important Reminder

Ensure your VPN is functional BEFORE leaving your home country to access international apps upon arrival.

Arrival Checklist

These are the first steps upon arriving within China.

First Steps in China

1
Immigration & Customs:
Clear immigration and customs at Changsha Huanghua International Airport (CSX).
2
Luggage Collection:
Collect your luggage.
3
SIM Card & VPN:
Purchase a local SIM card (if not pre-arranged) and activate your VPN immediately.

Orientation & Initial Purchases

Transfer:
Take your pre-arranged transfer to Yiyang/Heshan following your plan.
Check-in:
Check into your accommodation.
Local Familiarization:
Familiarize yourself with your neighborhood; locate bus stops, eateries, convenience stores.

Post-Arrival Actions

SIM & VPN Check

Purchase a local SIM card at the airport.

Activate your VPN for international access.

Currency & Payment

Exchange a small amount of cash or withdraw from an ATM.

Verify your Alipay/WeChat Pay operations.

Transportation to Accommodation

Follow your pre-planned transfer route from CSX.

Use an area bus or DiDi/taxi to your Heshan hotel; have the address in Chinese.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure for a smooth exit from Heshan District and China.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase local souvenirs during your stay.
International sending from China can be complex and expensive; check regulations.
Consider if items are suitable for luggage versus shipping.
China generally lacks a VAT refund scheme for tourists.

Pre-Departure Timing & Confirmation

Allow ample time (3-4 hours total) for travel from Heshan to Changsha Huanghua International Airport (CSX) for international flights.
Confirm flight details and check-in times 24-48 hours before departure.
Settle any outstanding hotel bills or local expenses.
Ensure all travel documents (passport, boarding passes) are in order.

Seamless Departure

Double-check all transport arrangements to the airport or train station.

A well-planned departure concludes your journey positively.

Heshan Travel Checklist

Next Up: Heshan Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Continue to Heshan Travel Checklist