Howdy Howdy Howdy
American here, planning on visiting China for the first time at the end of the year.
Specifically wondering if anyone here has any advice on the visa process for American citizens -- I've been researching myself but I keep finding either conflicting or outdated information since things seem to change rapidly.
From what I gathered, one needs to make an appointment window to the closest Chinese Consulate and apply for a travel visa in person-- which is then good for repeat visits up to 10 years? Or are there single use visas as well?
Also I'll be happy for any advice about visiting in general-- it's a huge country and a lot of ideas to sift through. Was suggested for phone (android) VPN, sim card, WeChat, WayGo, Baidu, 12306, Didi, MetroMan, and Trip.com (missing any?)
Mighty obliged folks, yeehaw
I'm from the UK but the process is the same I think. You have to visit the nearest consulate and fill out a form. Then return a few days later to collect your visa.
As for visiting, get and international SIM or eSIM before you go (travel Sims are rare in China for some reason). Take a VPN app. Install and set up Alipay and wechat and add some cards for paying for stuff. Install your banking apps so you can approve payments as I found mine were blocked constantly by my bank. Take some cash as sometimes your apps/bank simply won't cooperate and you'll need to pay somehow.
Have fun and eat everything