Finding accommodation in China is straightforward with the right platforms and knowledge. From international hotels to budget hostels and local apartments, there are options for every traveler and budget.

Last updated: November 2025

Booking Platforms

Several platforms make it easy to book accommodation in China. Some are international, while others are China-specific. Mobile payment (Alipay/WeChat Pay) is widely accepted on local platforms, and most support international cards.

Recommended Booking Platforms

Trip.com (Ctrip)

Best overall for China travel. English interface, accepts international cards and mobile payments, excellent customer service.

Booking.com

Wide selection, familiar interface, good for international hotel chains in China.

Tujia / Xiaozhu

Top local short-term rental platforms. Available in all major cities, ideal for longer stays, all listings accept foreigners.

Hostelworld

Best for budget travelers and meeting other tourists. Hostels usually foreigner-friendly.

Important Notes:

  • Most licensed hotels accept foreign guests - confirm via platform filters or descriptions
  • Book through English platforms (Trip.com, Booking.com) for easier communication
  • Read recent reviews from foreign travelers
  • Hotels near embassies and tourist areas are usually foreigner-friendly

Types of Accommodation

International Hotels (国际酒店)

Familiar chains like Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, InterContinental, etc.

Pros & Cons:

  • ✓ Pros: English-speaking staff, Western amenities, accept foreign guests, loyalty points work
  • ✗ Cons: More expensive, less authentic local experience
  • Price Range: ¥400-2,000+ per night

Local Hotels (本土酒店)

Chinese hotel chains like Home Inn, Hanting, 7 Days Inn, Atour.

Pros & Cons:

  • ✓ Pros: Good value, clean, modern facilities, widespread locations, most accept foreigners
  • ✗ Cons: Limited English (basic service available), Chinese-style breakfast
  • Price Range: ¥150-400 per night

Boutique Hotels (精品酒店)

Smaller, design-focused hotels with character and personalized service.

Pros & Cons:

  • ✓ Pros: Unique experience, often in historic areas, great for photos, local charm
  • ✗ Cons: Limited availability, can be pricey, older buildings may lack some amenities
  • Price Range: ¥300-1,000+ per night

Youth Hostels (青年旅舍)

Budget-friendly, social atmosphere, popular with backpackers.

Pros & Cons:

  • ✓ Pros: Very cheap, meet other travelers, English-speaking staff, local tips, social events
  • ✗ Cons: Shared facilities, noise, less privacy, variable cleanliness
  • Price Range: ¥40-150 per night (dorm beds ¥40-80, private rooms ¥100-150)

Apartments (短租公寓)

Short-term rental apartments through Tujia, Xiaozhu or other local platforms.

Pros & Cons:

  • ✓ Pros: Kitchen access, more space, good for families/groups, local neighborhood experience
  • ✗ Cons: No daily cleaning, communication can be difficult, registration with police required
  • Price Range: ¥200-800+ per night depending on size and location

Check-In Requirements

Checking into accommodation in China has specific requirements for foreign visitors. Mobile payment (Alipay/WeChat Pay) is accepted for deposits at most hotels.

Essential Documents:

  • Passport: Required for all foreign guests (photo copy not accepted)
  • Visa Page: Staff will record your visa information
  • Registration Form: You'll complete a temporary residence registration (usually electronic)

Police Registration

Foreign visitors must register with local police within 24 hours of arrival. Most hotels handle this automatically via electronic registration.

What You Need to Know:

  • Hotels: Automatically register you - ask for an electronic or paper registration凭证 (proof)
  • Hostels: Usually handle registration
  • Apartments/Short-term rentals: Host should assist with registration, or you must visit the local police station yourself
  • Keep the proof: You may need it for visa extensions or during random checks

Check-In Process

Typical Steps:

  1. Present passport and booking confirmation at reception
  2. Staff will scan/photocopy your passport
  3. Complete electronic or paper registration form (name, nationality, dates)
  4. Provide payment or deposit (cash, credit card, Alipay/WeChat Pay accepted)
  5. Receive room key/card and registration proof
  6. Deposit: ¥100-500 (cash or digital hold)

Choosing Location

Location is crucial for a comfortable stay. Consider these factors when choosing where to stay.

Best Areas to Stay

City Center

Convenient to attractions, dining, shopping. Higher prices but saves transportation time.

Near Metro Stations

Easy access to public transport. Within 5-10 minute walk is ideal.

Tourist Districts

More English services, foreigner-friendly, but can be touristy and pricier.

Local Neighborhoods

Authentic experience, lower prices, but less English spoken.

City-Specific Recommendations

  • Beijing: Dongcheng District (near Forbidden City), Chaoyang (business district), Xicheng (cultural sites)
  • Shanghai: Huangpu (The Bund area), French Concession (historic charm), Jing'an (central, trendy)
  • Guangzhou: Tianhe (modern, shopping), Yuexiu (historic center)
  • Chengdu: Jinjiang District (center), Chenghua District (near Giant Panda Breeding Research Base)
  • Xi'an: Inside the city wall (historic), Yanta District (modern amenities)

Common Questions

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, recommended: Especially during Chinese holidays (Spring Festival, National Day) and summer. Book 1-2 weeks ahead for popular destinations, 2-3 months for holidays.

What about WiFi?

Widely available: Nearly all hotels offer free WiFi. Ask for password at check-in. Speed and reliability vary - international hotels usually best.

Is breakfast included?

  • International hotels: Often included or available for ¥80-150
  • Local hotels: Usually Chinese-style breakfast (congee, buns, pickles)
  • Hostels: Sometimes included, usually simple
  • Check booking: Confirm if breakfast is included

Can I cancel my reservation?

Varies by booking: Check cancellation policy before booking. Many offer free cancellation 24-48 hours before arrival. Chinese hotels may have stricter policies than Western ones.

Accommodation Tips

Top Tips for Smooth Stay:

  • Communication: Save hotel address in Chinese on your phone for taxi drivers
  • Business card: Take hotel business card (with address) when going out
  • Early check-in: Usually 2:00 PM; late check-out 12:00 PM. Ask if you need different times.
  • Valuables: Use in-room safe or hotel safe deposit box
  • Adapters: China uses Type A (two flat pins) and Type I (three flat pins, Australian standard) plugs (220V). Hotels often provide adapters on request.
  • Hot water: 24-hour hot water is standard in most hotels (including budget options)
  • Toilet paper: Provided in all hotels; some budget properties may offer limited refills - bring a small pack if concerned
  • Slippers: Provided in most hotels for indoor use

Things to Avoid

  • Unlicensed hotels: Stick to licensed accommodations for safety and legal registration
  • Hotels without foreigner license: They cannot legally accept foreign guests
  • Too-cheap deals: If price seems unrealistically low, check reviews carefully
  • No-review properties: Especially for budget options, avoid places with no recent reviews
  • Poor location: Being far from metro can waste hours daily

Budget Guide

Daily Accommodation Budget:

  • Budget: ¥50-200 (hostels, budget hotels)
  • Mid-range: ¥200-600 (business hotels, good local chains)
  • Comfortable: ¥600-1,200 (international chains, nice boutiques)
  • Luxury: ¥1,200+ (5-star international hotels, top boutiques)

Note: Prices vary significantly by city. Beijing and Shanghai are typically 30-50% more expensive than other cities.