“Bring an empty suitcase to China!” This phrase is currently trending on overseas social media. As the number one inbound tourism destination in China, Beijing is experiencing a massive surge in international visitors. With a 57% increase in tourists in early 2025 alone, the world is clearly rediscovering the capital. If you are planning a trip, this Beijing travel guide will help you navigate the city like a pro.
Visa-Free Entry Makes Planning Easy
Before diving into the itinerary, let’s talk about getting there. Thanks to expanding policies, traveling to China is easier than ever. Currently, citizens from 47 countries can enjoy unilateral visa-free entry. Furthermore, the 144-hour transit visa exemption allows you to explore the city without complex paperwork. For the latest details, you can check the official visa exemption updates .
The Ultimate Beijing Travel Guide to Payments and Transit
One of the biggest concerns for international travelers is how to pay and get around. Forget the old days of carrying thick wads of cash. Beijing has launched incredible smart card solutions like the “Changyoutong” and “Mifang Card.”
Specifically, these innovative cards merge foreign bank cards with local SIM services. Consequently, you can simply tap your phone to enter the subway—no need to buy individual tickets or struggle with ticket machines. Currently, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and JCB are all accepted for this “tap-and-go” transit feature. You also get instant mobile data and translation tools upon arrival at the airport. It completely removes the language and payment barriers.
Must-Visit Spots: From Ancient Icons to Modern Trends
Beijing perfectly blends history with modern pop culture. Of course, you must visit the Forbidden City and the Great Wall. However, international tourists are increasingly flocking to modern spots like the Universal Studios Resort and the Pop Mart City Park. During the Dragon Boat Festival, foreign visitors were seen everywhere, enjoying traditional culture alongside modern entertainment. To plan your days efficiently, check out our recommended travel Itinerary.
Shopping Hacks and Tax Refunds
Now, back to that “empty suitcase” trend. Shopping in Beijing is a fantastic experience. At Qianmen Street, you can find beautifully crafted traditional fans that make perfect gifts. If you want customized clothing, the famous Silk Street (Xiushui) offers an amazing 18-hour tailored suit service.
Moreover, Beijing has revolutionized its tax refund system. Instead of waiting in line at the airport, the city launched the “buy and refund instantly” model. You can now process your tax refunds at downtown hubs like China World Mall (Guomao), WF Central, and Financial Street. Data shows this convenient service has boosted refund volumes by 75%. Just present your passport and boarding pass, get your cash back, and head straight to the airport.
Final Thoughts
From seamless subway rides to instant tax refunds, Beijing has transformed into an incredibly foreigner-friendly city. By taking advantage of these smart travel tools, you can focus on what really matters: enjoying the amazing food, rich history, and vibrant life of the capital.
