Moving to China can feel like stepping into another world — exciting, fast, and full of daily surprises. I thought I was prepared, but there were a few things I wish someone told me earlier. If you’re planning to move or you just arrived, these five notes will make life much smoother. 1) Cashless Life is Real QR codes run everything. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay as soon as you can....

China has made new changes to how foreign workers are classified, and it could affect how expats apply for or renew their work permits. The Ministry of Human Resources announced that the country is giving more power to local governments to decide which foreign professionals are most needed in their area. Before, foreign workers were grouped under three main types — Category A (top...

China can open doors, but it doesn’t promise an easy path. A lot of people arrive with expectations of instant jobs and fast money. The truth is different, and the reality hits quickly if you don’t prepare. Expectation 1: “I’ll get a monthly job quickly.” Most foreigners discover that monthly jobs aren’t as common as they imagined. Only a small number...

Looking for a quick escape this Golden Week? If you want to avoid the big crowds but still enjoy the holiday, here are some of the best day trips you can take from major cities in China. Beijing ➝ Great Wall Hike the Mutianyu or Jinshanling sections of the Great Wall for stunning views and fewer tourists compared to Badaling. Shanghai ➝ Suzhou Known as the “Venice of the...

If you’re in Guangzhou for sourcing or scouting suppliers, here’s what changed this session and why buyers should care. The 138th Canton Fair opened on October 15, 2025 in Guangzhou. This edition is being called the strictest so far. Many small and medium exhibitors were surprised by the new rules, but for buyers, the updates bring clear benefits. What’s new Stricter...