Question 1

How do I book a tour on Panda Touring?

Accepted Answer

Booking a tour is easy! Simply browse our activities, select your preferred experience, choose your date and number of participants, and proceed to checkout. You'll receive instant confirmation via email with all the details you need for your tour.

Question 2

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), PayPal, and Alipay. All payments are processed securely through our encrypted payment gateway.

Question 3

Can I cancel or modify my booking?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Most tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. You can cancel or modify your booking through your account dashboard or by contacting our customer service team. Refunds are processed within 5-7 business days.

Question 4

When will I receive my booking confirmation?

Accepted Answer

You'll receive an instant email confirmation immediately after completing your booking. This includes your booking reference number, tour details, meeting point information, and contact details for your guide.

Question 5

Do you offer group discounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We offer discounts for groups of 6 or more people. The discount varies by tour but typically ranges from 10-20%. Contact our sales team for a custom quote for your group.

Question 6

Are prices per person or per group?

Accepted Answer

Pricing varies by tour type. Small group tours are priced per person. Private tours may be priced per person or per group depending on the activity. Each tour listing clearly indicates the pricing structure.

Question 7

Do I need a visa to visit China?

Accepted Answer

Most visitors need a visa to enter China. Requirements vary by nationality. US, Canadian, European, and Australian citizens typically need a tourist visa (L-visa). Some cities offer visa-free transit for 72-144 hours. We recommend checking with the Chinese embassy in your country for the most current requirements.

Question 8

How long does it take to get a Chinese visa?

Accepted Answer

Standard processing takes 4-5 business days at Chinese consulates. Express service (2-3 days) and rush service (next day) are available for additional fees. We recommend applying at least 2-3 weeks before your trip.

Question 9

What is the 144-hour visa-free transit?

Accepted Answer

Selected cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and others) offer 144-hour (6-day) visa-free transit for citizens of 53 countries. You must have an onward ticket to a third country and stay within the designated region.

Question 10

What is the best time to visit China?

Accepted Answer

The best time to visit China is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December-February) is cold but less crowded.

Question 11

How long should I spend in China?

Accepted Answer

We recommend at least 7-10 days to see the major highlights including Beijing (Great Wall, Forbidden City), Xi'an (Terracotta Warriors), and Shanghai. For a more comprehensive experience including Chengdu and Guilin, plan for 14-21 days.

Question 12

What are the must-see attractions in China?

Accepted Answer

Top attractions include: Great Wall of China (Beijing), Forbidden City (Beijing), Terracotta Warriors (Xi'an), Bund waterfront (Shanghai), Giant Pandas (Chengdu), Li River cruise (Guilin), West Lake (Hangzhou), and Tiger Leaping Gorge (Yunnan).

Question 13

Do I need travel insurance for China?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and evacuation. Healthcare in China can be expensive for foreigners.

Question 14

How do I get around China?

Accepted Answer

China has excellent transportation infrastructure. High-speed trains connect major cities efficiently and comfortably. Domestic flights are affordable for longer distances. Within cities, use metro systems, taxis, or ride-hailing apps like Didi. Our tours include all necessary transportation.

Question 15

Are Chinese high-speed trains safe and comfortable?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Chinese high-speed trains (CRH/G-trains) are among the world's best - punctual, clean, comfortable, and safe. Second-class seats are spacious with power outlets. Very affordable compared to Western standards.

Question 16

Can I use Uber in China?

Accepted Answer

Uber sold its China operations to Didi Chuxing in 2016. Download the Didi app for ride-hailing services. It has an English interface and accepts foreign credit cards. Taxis are also abundant and metered in all major cities.

Question 17

Do people speak English in China?

Accepted Answer

English proficiency varies widely. In major tourist areas, international hotels, and popular attractions, you'll find English speakers. Outside tourist zones, English is limited. Learn basic Mandarin phrases and use translation apps.

Question 18

Can I use my phone and internet in China?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but many Western apps (Google, Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram) are blocked. Get a VPN before arriving (install before entering China). Buy a local SIM card at the airport for data. Most hotels and cafes offer WiFi.

Question 19

Which VPN works best in China?

Accepted Answer

Popular options include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Astrill. Download and set up your VPN before arriving in China, as VPN websites are blocked there. Test it before your trip.

Question 20

What currency does China use?

Accepted Answer

Chinese Yuan (CNY/RMB) is the official currency. As of 2026, 1 USD ≈ 7 RMB. Bills come in 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 RMB. The symbol ¥ represents yuan.

Question 21

Do credit cards work in China?

Accepted Answer

Major credit cards are accepted at international hotels, upscale restaurants, and major retailers. However, China is increasingly cashless - mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) dominate. Small shops often only accept mobile payment or cash.

Question 22

Should I tip in China?

Accepted Answer

Tipping is not customary in China. Tour guides and drivers appreciate tips for exceptional service (50-100 RMB per person per day is generous). Quality service shouldn't depend on tips.

Question 23

Is it safe to eat street food in China?

Accepted Answer

Generally yes, especially from busy vendors with high turnover. Look for crowded stalls, freshly cooked food, and clean preparation areas. Start cautiously to let your stomach adjust. Stick to cooked, hot food. Our food tours visit vetted vendors.

Question 24

What should I try for authentic Chinese food?

Accepted Answer

Must-try dishes: Peking Duck (Beijing), Xiaolongbao soup dumplings (Shanghai), Sichuan Hotpot (Chengdu), Hand-pulled noodles (Xi'an), Dim Sum (Guangzhou), Guilin Rice Noodles.

Question 25

Can vegetarians and vegans eat well in China?

Accepted Answer

Buddhist vegetarian restaurants (素食) are common and excellent. Learn key phrases: '我吃素' (I'm vegetarian) and '不要肉' (no meat). Tofu, vegetables, and noodle dishes are abundant.

Question 26

Is China safe for tourists?

Accepted Answer

China is generally very safe for tourists. Crime rates are low, and violent crime against tourists is rare. Major tourist areas have good security. Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and avoid unlicensed taxis.

Question 27

What emergency numbers should I know in China?

Accepted Answer

110 - Police, 120 - Ambulance, 119 - Fire. English service may be limited. Better to have your hotel or guide call on your behalf. Keep your embassy contact information handy.

Question 28

Are your tours private or group tours?

Accepted Answer

We offer both private and small group tours. Private tours provide personalized attention and flexible schedules. Small group tours (typically 8-16 people) offer great value and opportunities to meet fellow travelers.

Question 29

Do your guides speak English?

Accepted Answer

Yes! All our tours include professional English-speaking guides. Many also speak Japanese, Korean, Spanish, and French. Contact us if you need a guide who speaks a specific language.

Question 30

Can you customize a tour for me?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We specialize in custom itineraries tailored to your interests, pace, and budget. Tell us what you want to see and experience, and we'll create a personalized itinerary.

Question 31

Which section of the Great Wall should I visit?

Accepted Answer

For first-time visitors, we recommend Mutianyu (less crowded, well-preserved, with cable car) or Badaling (most famous, easily accessible). Jinshanling offers stunning views for hikers.

Question 32

What should I wear to the Great Wall?

Accepted Answer

Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes with good grip (steps can be steep and uneven). Dress in layers - it's often cooler and windier on the Wall. Bring sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.

Question 33

When is the best time to see pandas?

Accepted Answer

The best time to see giant pandas is early morning (8:00-10:00 AM) when they're most active during feeding time. Pandas tend to sleep during the afternoon. Our panda tours depart early to maximize viewing opportunities.

Question 34

Can I hold or touch the pandas?

Accepted Answer

Direct contact with giant pandas is extremely limited and requires special permits due to conservation efforts. Our Chengdu Panda Base tour allows you to observe pandas up close during feeding time and learn about conservation efforts.

Question 35

Is China suitable for traveling with young children?

Accepted Answer

Yes! China is family-friendly with safe cities, excellent transportation, and activities kids love (pandas, Great Wall, dumpling-making). Private tours work best with young children for flexible pacing.

Question 36

What are some tips for traveling solo in China?

Accepted Answer

Solo travel in China is rewarding but requires preparation. Learn basic Mandarin phrases, use translation apps, and get a VPN for internet access. Join group tours for company and cultural insights.

Frequently Asked Questions