Can US Citizens Travel to China Right Now 2025? Definitely Yes

Yes, U.S. citizens can travel to China right now. China has developed rapidly over the past decade and remains a safe destination with a low crime rate and a high standard of living. From visas to transportation, traveling in China is convenient and accessible for American travelers.

If you're transiting through China on your way to another country, you may qualify for up to 10 days of visa-free travel. This gives you plenty of time to explore major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an while experiencing China’s rich 5,000-year history and culture. Check out this article for essential tips and guidance to make your trip to China smooth and hassle-free.

Is It Safe to Travel to China as an American?

Is it safe to travel to China right now? Yes. China is an incredibly safe destination for all travelers, including Americans. The crime rate around China is very low, particularly in major cities, and serious crimes against tourists are rare. As long as you follow local laws and cultural norms, there is little to worry about.

Common sense precautions will help you avoid the small risks that exist for travelers anywhere. Petty theft can occur, so be aware of your belongings and don’t carry too much cash. Traffic in smaller cities and rural areas can be chaotic, so travelers should pay strict attention when crossing roads and always follow all traffic regulations.

Food safety is also something to pay attention to. When eating street food, choose stalls with good food hygiene. When in doubt, follow the crowds. Busy restaurants have a high, so you can expect fresh ingredients. Stick to bottled water for drinking.

Lively Snack Street in China.

Do US Citizens Need a Visa to China?

There are several ways a US citizen can visit China visa-free for shorter visits, or visas can be arranged for longer visits.

240-Hour (10-Day) Visa-Free Transit
US travelers transiting through China can stay for up to 10 days’ visa-free. Travel with China to 24 provinces and cities is allowed during that time. To be eligible, you must be leaving China for a destination different from your arrival destination.

30-Days Visa Free in Hainan Island
American travelers can visit Hainan Island visa-free for 30 days. Hainan is a tropical paradise and a perfect place if you just want to spend time on the beach and enjoying fresh seafood.

Tourist (L) Visa
For longer stays or multiple entry visits to China, tourist visas are the best option. US citizens can apply for tourist visas at the nearest Chinese Embassy, Consulate, or Visa Service Center. The visa costs 140 USD and is usually processed in 4 business days.

10 Days China Tour to Beijing, Xian, Guilin, Shanghai

Beijing - Xi'an - Guilin - Yangshuo - Shanghai

How Long Can US Citizens Stay in China?

The length of stay in China depends on how you enter. US citizens can apply for a 10-year, multiple-entry tourist visa. The 10-year visa allows for multiple visits to China for stays of up to 90 days per visit. Regular single, double, and multiple-entry tourist visas can be obtained for stays between 30-90 days.

There is no limit on the number of entries to China per year. Multiple-entry visas are useful if you are planning to visit China more than once or are traveling to Hong Kong or Macau during your trip. For administrative purposes, visits to Hong Kong and Macau are treated as exiting China, and a single-entry visa will not allow you to be able to return to China.

The beautiful night view of Hong Kong.

Where Can US Citizens Not Travel in China?

Almost everywhere is ok for travel in China. All the major cities, national parks, and tourist attractions have no restrictions on visitors. The only places you can visit are military zones and some border areas that are considered sensitive.

Travel to Tibet is possible, but international travelers must obtain a Tibet Travel Permit before entering the region. The travel permit is arranged on your behalf after booking a tour through a registered Tibetan travel agency. Xinjiang is also open to tourists, but there are heightened security checks throughout much of the region.

15 Days Best of China Tour with Chengdu and Tibet Discovery

Beijing - Xi'an - Chengdu - Lhasa - Shanghai

Is China Friendly to American Tourists?

China is a very friendly country, and locals are curious and hospitable to international tourists, including Americans. You will meet people in major cities and tourist areas who speak English and who are happy to share their culture. Even in more remote locations, expect to be greeted with hellos, even if that is the only English word someone knows.

Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases will be appreciated by the people you meet. Be patient when dealing with language barriers, and download a translation app to help smooth communication. Be respectful of local customs and cultural differences, which are part of the experience of traveling to a new country.

A foreigner is standing in front of Tiananmen in Beijing.

When Is the Best Time to Visit China for US Citizens?

China is a large country with varying climates, so you can visit anytime. In general, spring and autumn have the most pleasant climate conditions. In April and May, you can see blooming landscapes around China and enjoy mild weather. In September and October, the crisp autumn air is perfect for exploring nature or wandering city streets.

Local holidays can be extremely busy times and are usually best avoided. Chinese New Year usually falls between late January and February. Most of China is on holiday, and prices rise at tourist sites and hotels with the surge in travel. The National Week Holiday from October 1-7 is another very busy time. It can be difficult to book flights and hotels, and popular tourist attractions will be packed with travelers.

Chinese new year festival is the most important one in China.

What Tourist Destinations Are Recommended to US Citizens?

If it’s your first time visiting China, the most popular destinations in China hold many of the most iconic sites.

Beijing: China’s capital and home to famous places like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Summer Palace.
Xi’an: One of China’s ancient capitals and site of the Terracotta Warriors.
Chengdu: The best place to see the giant pandas at the Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
Shanghai: A blend of colonial-era architecture and soaring ultra-modern skyscrapers.

8 Days Classic Golden Triangle China Tour to Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai

Beijing - Xi'an - Shanghai

For nature lovers, China has some incredible natural wonders.

Zhangjiajie: The National Forest Park has a surreal landscape made famous in the movie Avatar.
Jiuzhaogou: Home to crystal-clear lakes, primeval forests, and towering mountains.
Tiger Leaping Gorge: One of the world’s deepest gorges with mountains that rise 3,790 meters above the river below.

Immerse yourself in rich cultural and ethnic experiences in places that preserve ancient traditions.

Yunnan: Blends stunning landscapes with ethnic cultures. Visit Tibetan villages and walk through Lijiang's ancient town's cobbled streets.
Guizhou: Home to Miao and Dong minority villages with their iconic stilted houses and traditional festivals.
Tibet: The ‘Roof of the World’ with a thriving Tibetan Buddhist culture and the highest mountain in the world.

13 Days China Gold Triangle Tour with Yunnan Discovery

Shanghai – Kunming –Dali – Lijiang- Xi’an - Beijing

Anything Else to Know Before Touring China for Americans?

- Popular Western websites like Google and Facebook are not accessible in China. Download and install a VPN before traveling.
- Transactions are made in the local currency, the Chinese yuan. Set up Alipay International to use mobile payments in most parts of China or carry cash for more remote locations.
- In case of emergencies, good healthcare is available in major cities in China. Buy travel insurance before you go.
- Avoid discussing sensitive topics with locals. A little politeness goes a long way.

13 Days China Highlights Tour with Yangtze River Cruise

Beijing - Xi'an - Guilin - Yangtze Cruise Cruise - Shanghai

Conclusion

It is not only possible for US citizens to travel to China in 2025, it’s a great opportunity to experience the rich culture and deep history of a fascinating country with ancient traditions. You can expect a safe trip in a welcoming environment while touring iconic sites like the Great Wall and Terracotta Warriors. Try delicious regional cuisine and meet friendly locals in an exotic land that celebrates traditions while embracing modernity.

Book your 2025 China tour and plan a personalized itinerary with our dedicated travel consultants. Our expert local knowledge lets us handle all the details, letting you have a smooth and worry-free trip.