Travel Vaccines and Advice for China

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for China. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for China: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, tickborne encephalitis, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. Check with your local Passport Health clinic if immunization is offered in your area.

As of September 2016, health authorities have confirmed a case of avian influenza A (H7N9) in China. Travelers are advised to avoid any contact with poultry and to not consume any under-cooked poultry while traveling.

Travelers’ diarrhea is a risk to travelers to all destinations, including China. Take precautions by only eating from reputable establishments and be sure to bring a travelers’ diarrhea kit.

Tuberculosis is an increasing problem in China. While risks to tourists are low, there is a chance of contamination. If you think you have been exposed, seek out TB testing as soon as you return home.

As one of the largest countries in the world, China has a wide range of climates. This means various mosquito-borne diseases can thrive in different parts of the country. Be sure to bring repellents and netting. Consult with a travel health specialist to learn if antimalarials or a Japanese encephalitis vaccine are right for you. Dengue and chikungunya are also present in the country.

See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.

Travelers are required to have a visa and passport to enter China. A separate visa may be needed if you plan on traveling to Hong Kong.

China Entry Requirements
Do I Need A…	For My Trip to China?
Passport
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Vaccinations

Sources: Embassy of China and U.S. State Department

For travelers entering the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), you must receive a special permit through a Chinese travel agent. Travelers could face fines, custody and deportation if they enter the region illegally.

There are a variety of visa options in China. Passport Health’s travel document services department can help you identify which one is right for your trip.

China’s climate varies depending on the region, with some of the most popular tourist destinations having distinct weather.

Beijing has hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. Shanghai has a subtropical climate with hot summers and cool winters. Xi’an has a temperate continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Guilin has a subtropical monsoon climate with hot summers and mild winters.

Chengdu has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, and Lhasa has a high-altitude plateau climate with mild summers and cold winters.

The best time to visit these destinations depends on the specific climate of the region and the activities planned. Generally, spring and autumn are the best times to visit most of these destinations. It is advisable to check the weather forecast and pack appropriate clothing accordingly.

China is a very safe country for travelers. In general, petty street crime is the only safety concern that travelers may come across. To avoid being a victim of these crimes, practice routine safety precautions.

China has a zero-tolerance policy on drugs. Any visitors that are caught using or in possession of drugs could face severe consequences, including the death penalty. Do not bring illicit substances to China or buy them while visiting the country.

If trekking to isolated or lesser populated places, be sure to travel in a group. This will reduce the risk of safety threats brought on by criminals. As an extra precaution, always leave the itinerary, mobile number, and the estimated time of return with a third party.

Due to the high population of people in China, traveling may be more difficult than expected. Traffic is unregulated and chaotic, causing high rates of automobile accidents.

Take one of the many methods of public transportation to get around. These include subways, trains, and buses, which have positive safety records.

When traveling long distances through China, a safe and low-cost option is the train service. Schedules and availability can change, be sure to plan your trip ahead of time.

Beijing is a popular tourist destination for its rich history and cultural significance. Beijing has some of the most popular sights including the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven.

The Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for anyone visiting Beijing. This iconic wall spans over 13,000 miles and is an impressive engineering feat. Tourists can explore different sections of the wall, including the Badaling and Mutianyu sections.

The Forbidden City, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was once the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Visitors can marvel at the stunning architecture and learn about the history of the Chinese emperors who once resided there.

The Temple of Heaven is a complex of religious buildings where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties would offer sacrifices to the heavens. Visitors can explore the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens surrounding the temple.

Other notable sights to visit in Beijing include the Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square and the National Museum of China.

With its rich history and cultural significance, Beijing is a fascinating destination for anyone.

As a majestic destination, China has much to offer travelers. But, it is best to be ready before you go. Consider packing these items for your upcoming trip:

• Insect Repellents – Mosquitoes can be a problem in some parts of China. Make sure you’re protected with a good repellent and, if needed, mosquito netting.
• Parka or Windbreaker – Temperatures can vary from region to region, but wind is a very common denominator. A windbreaker or parka will provide some protection while also keeping you dry in rains.
• Travelers’ Diarrhea Kit – Food in China can be very different from what you are used to. Bringing a travelers’ diarrhea kit can help you avoid any unforeseen issues.
• Backpack – Using a backpack is the best way to haul your clothing and gear around China, even if you aren’t hiking.
• Comfortable Shoes – No matter where you go or what you do, you will be doing a lot of walking. Make sure your shoes fit well and are comfortable to avoid blisters or soreness.

Please register online through the U.S. Department of State before traveling to China. This gives the Embassy the knowledge to be able to contact travelers in the event of an emergency.

The U.S. Embassy in China provides a range of services to American citizens who are traveling or living in China. These services include consular assistance, passport services, visa services, safety and security information, emergency services, notarial services, and voting services. The embassy is responsible for representing the U.S. government and its interests in China, promoting diplomatic relations and communication between the two countries, and facilitating cultural, economic, and political ties.

U.S. Embassy Beijing
No. 55 An Jia Lou Road
Chaoyang District, Beijing 100600
China
Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(10) 8531-3300

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!