RaceiGo

RaceiGo Runner Guide

Runner’s Guide to Running in China

Essential information for international runners traveling to China for marathons and races - including visas, payments, transportation, connectivity, useful apps, emergency contacts, and food safety.

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Visa Requirements

Do I need a visa?

Entry requirements depend on your nationality, passport, itinerary, and length of stay. If you are not eligible for visa-free entry or visa-free transit, you will normally need to apply for a tourist visa (L visa) before traveling.

Check your eligibility and application requirements with the National Immigration Administration, the Chinese Visa Application Service Center, or the Chinese embassy or consulate responsible for your place of residence.

Plan ahead: Apply early and make sure your passport has sufficient validity and blank pages for your trip.
Passport and documents illustrating entry requirements for travel to China

Possible visa-free options

  • Up to 30 days for eligible nationalities
  • 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit for eligible travelers with onward travel to a third country or region
  • Up to 90 days in any 180-day period under certain bilateral agreements

Policies and eligible nationalities can change. Always verify the rules before booking or traveling.

Currency and Mobile Payments

Chinese yuan (CNY/RMB)

Bank cards: International cards are accepted at many hotels and larger businesses, but acceptance can be limited at smaller shops and restaurants.

Cash: Renminbi cash remains legal tender and is useful as a backup, particularly in smaller cities. Exchange currency through banks or authorized counters.

Tipping: Tipping is generally not customary in mainland China.

Mobile payments

Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used. Overseas visitors can register using an international phone number and may link eligible international bank cards, including Visa and Mastercard.

  • Download and register before departure
  • Complete any requested identity verification
  • Add more than one payment option when possible
  • Carry some cash and a physical card as backups
Race-day tip: Do not assume taxis, small shops, or temporary race vendors will accept an international credit card directly.

Transportation in China

Modern public transportation, taxis and shared bikes in a Chinese city

Efficient travel options

China has extensive air, high-speed rail, metro, taxi, and ride-hailing networks that make it possible to reach race destinations efficiently. Allow extra time during public holidays and major race weekends.

Airports

  • Many major marathon cities have international airports
  • Domestic connections are extensive
  • Allow extra time for security and terminal transfers

High-speed rail

  • Fast, clean, and generally punctual
  • Book through the official 12306 service or established travel platforms
  • Use the same passport for booking and travel

Taxis and ride-hailing

  • DiDi offers services in many cities
  • Use the meter in street-hailed taxis
  • Keep your destination written in Chinese

Shared bikes

  • Useful for short, last-mile trips
  • Often unlocked through Alipay or WeChat
  • Follow local parking rules and avoid riding with race luggage

Language and Connectivity

Language tips

English availability varies and may be limited outside international hotels and major tourist areas. Save your hotel, race expo, start line, and finish location in Chinese.

Useful phrases

  • Nǐ hǎo - Hello
  • Xièxie - Thank you
  • Qǐngwèn… - Excuse me / May I ask…
  • Wǒ yào qù… - I want to go to…
  • Duōshao qián? - How much?

Connectivity

SIM and eSIM: Local SIM cards are available from major Chinese mobile operators. Eligible travelers can also arrange an eSIM before departure.

Wi-Fi: Hotels, cafés, airports, and other public places commonly provide Wi-Fi, although some networks require phone-number verification.

Internet access: Some international websites and apps may be unavailable on local networks. International roaming or travel eSIM access varies by provider. Set up essential communication, maps, and payment apps before departure and follow applicable laws and service terms.

Emergency and Assistance Numbers

Police

110

Medical emergency

120

Fire

119

Immigration service

12367
Prepare before race day: Save your travel insurer’s assistance number, your accommodation address in Chinese, and the organizer’s emergency contact. For consular emergencies, contact your embassy or consulate.

Food Safety and Water

Bottled and packaged drinking water for travelers in China

Stay healthy

Use simple food and water precautions, especially before race day, and avoid experimenting with unfamiliar foods immediately before your event.

Drinking water

Do not drink untreated tap water. Use sealed bottled water or properly boiled water, and check bottle seals before drinking.

Street food

Choose busy vendors that cook food to order. Be cautious with raw produce, unpeeled fruit, and undercooked meat.

Restaurants

Choose clean, busy establishments and freshly cooked dishes. Take extra care with seafood and food that has been kept at room temperature.

Last reviewed: August 2026. This guide provides general travel information and does not replace official immigration, health, transport, or safety advice.