How to Travel from USA to China: 2025 Packages, Visa Requirements & Expert Tips

Traveling from the United States to China has never been more exciting—or easier—with YellowBirdTour’s expert packages for 2025. Whether you dream of walking the Great Wall, witnessing Tibet’s mystic peaks, or exploring modern Shanghai, our curated group and custom tours deliver authentic travel with transparent pricing, top-rated guides, and personal service.

Why Choose YellowBirdTour for Your China Adventure?

• Expert Guidance: Our multilingual team delivers personal, attentive service from planning until your journey’s end.
• Small Groups & Custom Itineraries: Enjoy intimate tours, flexibility, and the chance to truly connect with local culture.
• Inclusive Packages: Transparent pricing—most activities, entrances, and meals included.

Discover more about our philosophy and happy travelers here: Why Yellow Bird Tour

Top China Tours for US Travelers in 2025

YellowBird offers a variety of tours to private and small groups, covering China’s most iconic destinations:

• The Great Wall, Beijing & Forbidden City
• Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an
• Chengdu’s panda sanctuaries
• Yunnan & Guilin’s landscapes
• Harbin, Snow Town to
• Tibet & Mt. Kailash Kora (April–October; advance booking required)

View all China tours here: China Destinations

Visa Requirements for US Citizens (as of October 2025)

Most US travelers to mainland China need a visa.

Key requirements:

• Passport: Valid at least 6 months beyond travel dates, with at least 2 blank visa pages.
• Tourist (L) Visa: Required for entry; not needed for visits to Hong Kong (<3 months) or Macau (<30 days).
• Application: Complete China’s Online Visa Application (COVA) plus required documents and possible invitation letter (provided by YellowBirdTour for booked tours).
• Visa-Free Transit: US passport holders may visit for up to 10 days without a visa under the 2025 expanded visa-free transit policy, but only if transiting to a third country and using eligible entry points.

Always reconfirm requirements with your nearest Chinese consulate, as policies can update.

When to Travel & Why Book Early

• Peak Season: Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–November) are ideal for most regions.
• Mt. Kailash Treks: Only possible from April to October—must reserve well in advance due to permit and group limitations.
• National Holidays: Avoid Chinese New Year and Golden Week for smaller crowds.

Additional Tips for Your Trip

• Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended for all trips.
• Packing: Match clothing to climate and altitude on your itinerary. Prepare for both urban and remote experiences.
• Booking: Secure your spot early—especially for Tibet and Mt. Kailash tours which have permit limits.
• Solo, Group, or Custom: All traveler types are welcome. Solo and custom itineraries available.

View FAQs: YellowBird FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions: Traveling from the USA to China with YellowBird

Do I need a visa to travel to China from the USA?

Yes, US citizens must obtain a tourist visa before arrival to mainland China. You will need a valid passport (at least 6 months’ validity and two blank pages), a completed online visa application (COVA), a photograph, and possibly an invitation letter if requested. Note: US citizens can enter Hong Kong (up to 90 days) and Macau (up to 30 days) without a visa, but a China visa is required to enter mainland China.

Can I visit China without a visa if I am transiting?

Yes, China’s visa-free transit policy allows US passengers to visit select cities for up to 10 days (depending on circumstances) if they have confirmed onward travel to a third country. Confirm your eligibility and entry port before travel.

How do I apply for the China tourist visa?

Complete the China Online Visa Application (COVA) and submit all necessary documentation to your nearest Chinese consulate/embassy or a Visa Application Service Center. YellowBirdTour provides guidance and can issue supporting invitation letters for our booked travelers.

Is it safe to travel in China as an American?

China is generally safe for tourists. Petty theft can happen in crowded areas, so use normal precautions. Follow local laws and be aware of any U.S. travel advisories for China before departure. Keep your passport/Visa with you at all times.

What are the best places to visit in China?

Top destinations include:

• The Great Wall, Forbidden City, and hutongs of Beijing
• Terracotta Army in Xi’an
• Pandas and spicy cuisine in Chengdu
• Lijiang, Guilin, and the karst landscapes of Yunnan
• Modern Shanghai’s Bund and Old Town
• Scenic Zhangjiajie (Avatar Mountains)
• Mt Kailash (open April–October), for trekkers and spiritual travelers

Explore YellowBird China Destinations

When is the best time to visit China?

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) for most destinations. Avoid Chinese New Year (January/February) and Golden Week (October) if you want to escape crowds.

What forms of payment are used in China?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are the norm, even for small expenses. International credit cards are accepted in high-end hotels and tourist shops, but less so elsewhere. Carry some Chinese yuan (RMB) in cash for markets and smaller vendors. YellowBirdTour can pre-arrange help with payment, SIM cards, and exchanging money.

Can I use my credit or debit cards in China?

Visa and MasterCard are accepted in some hotels, tourist restaurants, and stores in major cities. Cash or mobile payment apps (with a Chinese bank setup) are still more widely used for day-to-day costs.

Do I need travel insurance for a YellowBirdTour China trip?

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is compulsory for all YellowBirdTour packages. Purchase additional medical or enhanced coverage as needed.

What should I pack for my trip?

Pack according to the season and destinations: layers, comfortable shoes, sun/rain protection, personal medicines, electrical adapters, and consider altitude/heat for places like Tibet or southern China. Don’t overpack for comfort during the tour.

Are YellowBirdTour packages good for solo travelers and families?

Absolutely! YellowBirdTour specializes in small group travel and can create custom or private tours for families, couples, groups of friends, and solo travelers. See more: YellowBird FAQ

Can I customize my itinerary or add extra destinations?

Yes, all tours are fully customizable—add days, special activities, or off-the-beaten-path stops. Contact us to plan your dream trip.

What’s included in a YellowBirdTour China trip?

• Airport/train station transfers
• English-speaking local guides
• 4-star accommodations and most meals
• Main attraction entrance fees
• All local transport,
• Bottled water and lots of fun

Is tipping customary in China?

Tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated by guides and drivers, especially on private or group tours.

Do I need any vaccinations for China?

No specific vaccinations are required, but make sure your routine immunizations are up-to-date. Prepare for altitude if traveling to Tibet.

Can I use the internet and social media in China?

Many Western sites (Facebook, Google, WhatsApp) are blocked in China. Set up a VPN before arrival for unrestricted access and download local apps (WeChat is essential for communication and payments).

How do I stay connected in China?

Buy a Chinese SIM card (YellowBirdTour can assist) or rent a portable Wi-Fi device. Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and some cafes/restaurants.

What languages are spoken in China?

Mandarin is the official language; English is widely spoken in major tourist areas. Local guides bridge the language gap and help you navigate.

Ready to Start Your China Adventure?

Join the many American travelers who choose YellowBirdTour for quality, authenticity, and hassle-free discovery in China and Asia.
Contact us | All China Tours

Internal Links Used:

• Why Yellow Bird 
• China Destinations
• Tibet: A Traveler’s Guide
• YellowBird FAQ