China Business Travel Guide for International Buyers
A Complete Guide to Transportation, Factory Visits, Payments, Shopping and Business Travel in China
Planning a business trip to China to find manufacturers, visit factories, attend trade fairs or purchase products? China has a highly developed transportation system, convenient digital payment services and a huge manufacturing industry.
However, traveling in China can be different from traveling in Europe, North America or other countries. Language barriers, mobile payment systems, transportation apps and local business practices may create challenges for first-time visitors.
This China Business Travel Guide for International Buyers explains how to travel between Chinese cities, visit suppliers, arrange factory inspections, pay for transportation, communicate with Chinese manufacturers and prepare for your business trip.
Whether you are looking for fitness equipment manufacturers, treadmill suppliers, walking pad factories, dumbbell manufacturers or other Chinese wholesale suppliers, this guide will help you prepare for your visit.
1. Transportation in China: A Complete Guide for International Business Travelers
China has several major transportation options, including airplanes, high-speed trains, ordinary trains, subways, public buses, taxis and online ride-hailing services.
Choosing the right transportation depends mainly on your travel distance and the number of places you plan to visit.
Traveling Between Different Factories in the Same City
If you need to visit several factories in one city, taxis and online ride-hailing services are usually the most convenient options.
Taxis are easy to find in most Chinese cities. However, online ride-hailing services are even more widely used.
You can download Amap (Gaode Maps) or Tencent Maps to search for destinations and arrange transportation. Depending on the app and your location, you may find several transportation options:
- Online ride-hailing services (Didi)
- Taxis
- Public transportation
- Driving directions
- Walking directions
Didi is one of the most widely used ride-hailing services in China. You can book a car directly through supported apps or services.
Ride-hailing services are generally convenient and affordable compared with private transportation in many other countries.
Foreign visitors can also download Alipay or WeChat Pay and link an international Visa or Mastercard to pay for supported services.
Traveling Between Nearby Cities
If you are traveling between two neighboring cities within approximately 70 km, a taxi or private car may be convenient, especially when visiting factories located outside city centers.
For longer distances, high-speed trains are usually a better choice.
China has an extensive railway network connecting major cities and manufacturing areas.
How to Buy Train Tickets in China
There are two recommended platforms for purchasing train tickets:
- China Railway 12306 – The official railway ticketing website and application.
- Trip.com – An international travel booking platform that offers train tickets, flights and hotel reservations.
Both platforms provide services for international travelers. Foreign visitors can purchase tickets using valid passports and supported international payment methods.
Different Types of Trains in China
China has several types of passenger trains:
- G trains: High-speed trains connecting major cities. Some services operate at speeds of up to 300–350 km/h.
- D trains: Electric multiple-unit trains, generally slower than G trains.
- T trains: Traditional express trains with fewer stops.
- K trains: Traditional fast trains with more stops and longer journey times.
For international business travelers, G trains are generally the recommended choice.
They offer comfortable seating, clean carriages, air conditioning, convenient luggage storage and reliable connections. Some trains provide free drinking water and paid meal services.
What If There Is No Direct Train?
If there is no direct train between your departure city and destination, you can search for a connecting train.
Many high-speed railway stations have convenient transfer facilities. However, transfer times depend on the station, ticket arrangement and train schedule. Always allow sufficient time to change trains.
How Far Should You Travel by High-Speed Train or Airplane?
As a general business travel planning guide:
Within 800 km
High-speed trains are usually a convenient option.
For example, an 800 km train journey may take approximately 3–4 hours, depending on the route and number of stops.
Between 800 km and 1,200 km
Both high-speed trains and airplanes are worth considering.
An airplane may only take 1–2 hours in the air, but you also need to consider transportation to the airport, airport security and check-in time.
High-speed railway stations are often located closer to city centers, and passengers generally need less advance arrival time than at airports.
Over 1,200 km
Air travel is usually worth considering because it can save considerable travel time.
However, always compare the actual routes, departure schedules and total door-to-door journey times.
Is China Safe for Business Travelers?
Most major Chinese business and tourist destinations have extensive public security facilities, including surveillance cameras and security checks at transportation hubs.
China is generally considered a convenient destination for business travel. However, visitors should still take normal precautions, protect their personal belongings and follow local laws.
Firearms and many types of knives are strictly controlled. Items that may be prohibited on trains or airplanes should be checked against the latest railway and aviation security regulations before traveling.
12306 website:https://www.12306.cn/en/index.html
How use visa in guangzhou trafic:https://www.eguangzhou.gov.cn/gzspecialreports/139thCantonFair/content/post_42667.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2. How to Travel from Guangzhou to Foshan, Shenzhen and Dongguan
Guangzhou, Foshan, Shenzhen and Dongguan are major cities in the Pearl River Delta region of southern China.
These cities are close to each other and form one of China’s most important manufacturing and industrial areas.
For international buyers visiting multiple Chinese suppliers, understanding transportation between these cities can save considerable time.
High-Speed Trains
High-speed trains are a convenient way to travel between major railway stations in the region.
You can search for train schedules and purchase tickets through the 12306 application or Trip.com.
Some routes have frequent services, and certain journeys can take approximately 30 minutes. Actual travel times depend on the departure and arrival stations.
Taxis and Private Cars
If you prefer not to use trains, you can book a taxi or private car.
For example, if you plan to visit two factories in different cities, a private car may save you the trouble of traveling to railway stations and arranging additional transportation.
However, Guangzhou, Foshan, Shenzhen and Dongguan are highly populated metropolitan areas. Traffic congestion can be significant, particularly during morning and evening rush hours.
Our recommendations:
- Visiting two locations between nearby railway stations: Consider taking a train.
- Visiting several factories in different industrial areas: Consider booking a private car.
- Visiting factories in industrial parks outside city centers: A private car may be more convenient.
Can Foreigners Rent a Car and Drive in China?
Foreign driving licenses are generally not directly valid for driving in mainland China.
Foreign visitors normally need to obtain a temporary Chinese driving permit or meet the applicable licensing requirements before driving.
If you are visiting China for business, using taxis or hiring a driver is usually more convenient.
What If You Miss Your Train?
If you miss your train, you may be able to change your ticket through 12306 or at a railway station, subject to the applicable railway rules and available seats.
Some changes are free, while others may involve fees depending on the departure time and the new ticket.
Always check the current change policy before confirming your new journey.
3. How to Travel from Guangzhou to Yiwu
Yiwu is one of China’s most famous wholesale trading cities. It attracts international buyers looking for household products, toys, accessories, gifts, textiles and many other wholesale goods.
Guangzhou and Yiwu are approximately 1,200 km apart in a straight line.
There are two main transportation options:
Option 1: Airplane
Flying is a convenient option if you want to save time. Check direct flights and airport transfer times before booking.
Option 2: High-Speed Train
You can also travel by high-speed railway.
Depending on the selected service, the journey may take several hours. Compare direct services and connecting routes through 12306 or Trip.com.
If you are planning to visit multiple suppliers in both Guangzhou and Yiwu, arranging your travel schedule in advance is highly recommended.
4. How to Visit Chinese Factories: A Guide for International Buyers
Visiting a Chinese factory is an important step when evaluating potential suppliers.
Whether you are purchasing fitness equipment, electronics, furniture, clothing or other products, a factory visit helps you understand the supplier’s production capabilities, quality control procedures and customization services.
How to Arrange a Factory Visit
Not every Chinese company is experienced in international business.
Some companies mainly serve the domestic Chinese market, and their representatives may not speak English fluently.
We recommend contacting the supplier before your visit.
Ask for:
- Company name
- Factory address
- Contact person’s telephone number
- WeChat contact information
- Available factory visiting dates
- Whether an English-speaking representative is available
Do not arrive at a factory without confirming your appointment.
How to Arrange Visits to Multiple Suppliers
If you plan to visit several factories, collect the addresses of all suppliers before traveling.
Then:
- Enter each factory address into your map application.
- Identify the cities and industrial areas where the factories are located.
- Calculate the distances between each location.
- Group nearby factories together.
- Choose suitable transportation for each journey.
- Prepare a daily factory visit schedule.
This will help you avoid unnecessary travel and save time.
What Should You Prepare Before Visiting a Factory?
We recommend preparing the following information:
- Confirm your factory appointment in advance.
- Obtain the supplier’s WeChat contact information.
- Confirm the exact factory address.
- Ask whether the supplier has an English-speaking sales representative.
- Prepare a translation application if necessary.
- Ask whether the supplier can arrange transportation from the railway station or airport.
- Prepare a list of products and technical specifications you want to discuss.
For example, if you are looking for a treadmill manufacturer, prepare your preferred running speed, running belt size, motor requirements, folding design, voltage and target purchasing quantity.
If you are looking for a wholesale gym equipment supplier, prepare a product list covering treadmills, walking pads, spin bikes, dumbbells, kettlebells, weight benches and gym accessories.
Having clear purchasing requirements makes factory visits more productive.
How to Communicate with Chinese Suppliers
WeChat is one of the most widely used communication applications in China.
It is particularly useful for communicating with factories, sales representatives and business contacts.
WeChat provides translation functions that can help international buyers communicate with Chinese suppliers.
For example, when a supplier sends you a message in Chinese, you can use the translation function to understand it in your preferred language.
Some Chinese suppliers also use WhatsApp, but WeChat is generally much more common for domestic business communication.
Many suppliers participating in the Canton Fair, China Sport Show and international B2B platforms such as Alibaba and Made-in-China.com have experience communicating with overseas customers.
However, English proficiency varies between companies.
It is always better to confirm language support before your visit.
5. How to Get to Canton Fair from Guangzhou Airport
The Canton Fair is one of China’s most important international trade exhibitions.
It attracts buyers and suppliers from all over the world.
The exhibition takes place at the China Import and Export Fair Complex in Guangzhou.
If you arrive at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, there are several ways to reach the exhibition center.
Option 1: Online Ride-Hailing Services
For first-time visitors, booking a car through Alipay or a supported ride-hailing application is a convenient option.
Download Alipay before or immediately after arriving in China, complete registration and add a supported international bank card.
You can then search for your destination and arrange a ride through the available services.
Option 2: Guangzhou Metro
Guangzhou has an extensive metro network connecting the airport, railway stations, hotels and major exhibition areas.
For the Canton Fair, Line 3 and Line 8 are commonly used.
One typical route is:
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport → Metro Line 3 → Transfer at Kecun Station → Line 8 → Pazhou or Xingangdong Station.
Choose your final station according to the exhibition hall and entrance you need.
You can use Amap to check the latest metro routes and transfers.
Google Maps may not provide the same level of local transportation information as Chinese map applications.
Metro ticket machines, service counters and supported international bank cards provide different payment options depending on the station.
Option 3: Taxi and Private Car
Taxis are available at the airport.
You can also use ride-hailing services through supported applications such as Alipay and Amap.
During major trade exhibitions, traffic congestion around the exhibition center can be heavy.
Allow extra travel time, especially during the morning rush hour.
Choosing a Hotel Near the Canton Fair
If you are attending the Canton Fair, choosing a hotel with convenient transportation to the exhibition complex is important.
You can search for hotels through:
- Trip.com
- Booking.com
- Fliggy (Feizhu)
Before booking, check whether the hotel provides a complimentary shuttle bus to the exhibition center.
Some hotels offer special transportation services during major exhibitions.
You can also use Amap to compare hotel locations and nearby transportation options.
6. How to Pay for Transportation in China as a Foreigner
China has a highly developed mobile payment system.
Many Chinese residents use mobile payments instead of cash for daily purchases, transportation, restaurants and shopping.
For international visitors, Alipay and WeChat Pay are the two most useful payment applications.
Can Foreigners Use Visa and Mastercard in China?
Yes. International visitors can link supported overseas Visa and Mastercard credit cards to Alipay or WeChat Pay.
After completing registration and any required identity verification, you can use these applications to pay participating merchants.
Depending on the service and location, you may use mobile payments for:
- Taxis and ride-hailing services
- Restaurants
- Shopping malls
- Supermarkets
- Public transportation
- Hotel bookings
- Tourist attractions
Not every merchant or transportation service accepts every international card.
Transaction limits, service fees and card restrictions may also apply.
We recommend setting up your payment applications before your business trip.
Can You Pay Directly with a Visa Card?
Some major commercial establishments and transportation systems accept international bank cards directly.
However, smaller shops, restaurants and independent merchants may primarily accept mobile payments.
For this reason, linking your Visa or Mastercard to Alipay or WeChat Pay is a practical solution.
It is also advisable to carry a small amount of RMB cash as a backup.
7. Can You Use Uber, Booking.com and Airbnb in China?
International visitors often wonder whether the applications they use at home will work in China.
Here is a practical overview.
Uber
Uber does not operate its regular ride-hailing service independently in mainland China.
Instead, Didi is one of the major ride-hailing platforms.
You can use supported Didi services or access ride-hailing functions through certain Chinese applications.
Booking.com
Booking.com can be used to search for and book accommodation in China, subject to the availability of individual hotels and payment options.
Trip.com is another convenient option, especially for international travelers.
Airbnb
Airbnb discontinued its domestic accommodation listing business in mainland China in 2022.
If you need accommodation in China, consider using Trip.com or other hotel booking platforms.
Which Applications Should You Download?
For a convenient business trip, we recommend:
- WeChat: Communication with Chinese suppliers.
- Alipay: Mobile payments and supported travel services.
- Amap (Gaode Maps): Navigation and transportation.
- Trip.com: Flights, hotels and train tickets.
- Didi: Ride-hailing services.
These applications can make traveling in China much easier.
8. Can You Use Google, Google Maps and WhatsApp in China?
Mainland China has internet access restrictions affecting several international websites, search engines and social media services.
Google Search, Google Maps, WhatsApp, Facebook and some other international services are generally inaccessible through ordinary mainland Chinese internet connections.
However, the actual accessibility of these services can depend on your network connection, SIM card, roaming arrangements and other factors.
Some international travelers continue using certain services through their home mobile operator’s international roaming service.
Do not assume that every application will work normally after arriving in China.
For business communication, we recommend installing WeChat before traveling.
For navigation, download Amap.
For payment, prepare Alipay or WeChat Pay.
Having alternative applications ready will help you avoid unnecessary difficulties.
9. Chinese Food: What Should International Visitors Know?
China has an extremely diverse food culture.
Different regions have different cooking styles, ingredients and flavors.
Four well-known regional cuisines that international visitors may encounter include Hunan, Guangdong, Zhejiang and Sichuan cuisine.
Guangdong Cuisine
Guangdong cuisine is popular in southern China.
It generally emphasizes fresh ingredients, natural flavors and relatively light seasoning.
Soups, steamed dishes, seafood and dim sum are particularly popular.
If you prefer food that is not too spicy, Guangdong cuisine is worth trying.
Hunan Cuisine
Hunan cuisine is famous for its spicy flavors.
Dishes often use fresh chili peppers and aromatic seasonings.
If you enjoy spicy food, Hunan cuisine is an excellent choice.
Zhejiang Cuisine
Zhejiang cuisine generally emphasizes freshness, seasonal ingredients and delicate flavors.
Some dishes have a slightly sweet taste.
Sichuan Cuisine
Sichuan cuisine is famous for its spicy and numbing flavors.
Chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns are commonly used.
Many dishes contain chili oil, spicy sauces or hot soup bases.
What If You Prefer Western Food?
Major cities such as Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing and Shenzhen have many international restaurants.
However, Western food options and restaurant styles may vary considerably between large cities and smaller manufacturing towns.
If you are staying in an industrial area, you may find fewer international restaurants nearby.
Food Options for Muslim Visitors
Pork is one of the most commonly consumed meats in China.
Muslim visitors should check restaurant ingredients and food preparation practices before ordering.
Lanzhou-style beef noodle restaurants are widely available in many Chinese cities and are often a convenient option for Muslim travelers.
However, always check the restaurant’s halal certification or status rather than assuming every restaurant with this name is halal.
Yiwu, in Zhejiang Province, is particularly well known for its international trading community.
The city has restaurants serving Turkish, Arabic, Indian, Bangladeshi and other international cuisines.
It is also home to the famous Yiwu International Trade Market, one of China’s major wholesale trading centers.
10. Where Can You Shop Online in China?
China has one of the world’s largest e-commerce markets.
Many products are easier to purchase online than in traditional physical stores.
Some specialized products may not be readily available in ordinary shopping malls or supermarkets.
For example, universal travel adapters and certain accessories are often easier to find through online shopping platforms.
Popular Chinese Online Shopping Platforms
Taobao
A large online shopping marketplace offering clothing, electronics, household products, accessories and many other consumer goods.
JD.com (Jingdong)
A major e-commerce platform known for electronics, appliances, household products and branded goods.
Pinduoduo
A popular online shopping platform offering competitive prices across many product categories.
1688.com
A major domestic wholesale marketplace.
It is particularly useful for buyers interested in sourcing products directly from Chinese factories and wholesalers.
International buyers should note that some domestic platforms require Chinese-language navigation, local delivery arrangements or additional payment and registration steps.
Amazon is not a mainstream domestic shopping platform in China.
For everyday shopping, Chinese platforms offer a much wider selection of locally available products.
Many domestic online orders can arrive within a few days, depending on the seller, destination and shipping method.
11. How to Discover Tourist Attractions in China
China has a large number of historical sites, modern cities, natural attractions and cultural destinations.
If you want to explore a city after visiting factories or attending a trade fair, several applications can help.
Xiaohongshu (RED)
A popular Chinese social media platform where users share travel experiences, restaurant recommendations, shopping guides and local attractions.
Douyin
The Chinese version of TikTok.
You can find many short videos introducing cities, tourist attractions, restaurants and local experiences.
Although much of the content is in Chinese, videos and pictures can help international visitors understand what to expect.
Trip.com
Trip.com offers English-language travel information, hotel reservations, attraction tickets and travel recommendations for many Chinese cities.
These platforms can help you discover places that may not appear in traditional international travel guides.
12. What Should You Prepare Before Traveling to China?
China is a very large country.
Weather conditions can differ considerably between cities at the same time of year.
For example, northern China may be cold while southern cities remain relatively warm.
Before departure, check the weather forecast for every city on your business itinerary.
We recommend preparing the following items.
1. Suitable Clothing
Check the weather conditions in each city you plan to visit.
If you are traveling between northern and southern China, prepare clothing for different temperatures.
2. Travel Adapter
China mainly uses Type A, Type C and Type I electrical sockets.
Bring a suitable universal travel adapter.
3. Cash and Bank Cards
Bring a Visa or Mastercard and a small amount of foreign currency.
You can exchange money for RMB at authorized exchange counters or financial institutions.
You should also prepare Alipay or WeChat Pay for daily payments.
4. Translation Applications
Download a translation application before departure.
This can help you communicate with taxi drivers, hotel staff, restaurant employees and local suppliers.
5. WeChat
WeChat is essential for communicating with many Chinese business contacts.
Install the application and complete registration before your trip.
6. Alipay
Set up Alipay and link a supported international bank card.
This will make it easier to pay for transportation, shopping and other services.
7. Amap (Gaode Maps)
Download Amap for local navigation, transportation searches and route planning.
An English-language version is available for international users.
8. Hotel and Travel Reservations
Prepare your hotel reservations, flight tickets, train tickets and factory appointment information.
Keep your passport and travel documents accessible.
9. Supplier Information
If you are visiting Chinese factories, prepare a list containing:
- Supplier company names
- Factory addresses
- Contact telephone numbers
- WeChat accounts
- Product requirements
- Planned visit dates
This information will help you organize your business trip efficiently.
13. Looking for Fitness Equipment Manufacturers in China?
China is an important manufacturing base for fitness equipment and gym products.
International buyers can find manufacturers and suppliers offering home fitness equipment, commercial gym equipment, strength training products and fitness accessories.
If you are planning to source fitness equipment from China, visiting suppliers in person can help you evaluate product quality, manufacturing capabilities, customization options and export experience.
What Fitness Equipment Can You Source from China?
Depending on your purchasing requirements, you may consider the following product categories:
Treadmills and Walking Pads
Home treadmills, foldable treadmills, under-desk walking pads and compact electric walking machines are popular products in the home fitness market.
Buyers can compare running speed, motor specifications, running belt dimensions, incline functions and folding designs.
If you are searching for a treadmill manufacturer in China or a walking pad supplier for wholesale and OEM business, comparing product specifications and factory capabilities is an important step.
Spin Bikes and Exercise Bikes
Spin bikes, magnetic exercise bikes, compact indoor cycling bikes and other home fitness bicycles are widely used in residential fitness markets.
International buyers can discuss flywheel weight, resistance systems, frame design, packaging and customized branding.
Dumbbells and Kettlebells
Dumbbells, rubber-coated dumbbells, fixed chrome dumbbells, kettlebells, rubber weight plates and other strength training products are important categories for fitness equipment distributors.
Buyers should compare available weight ranges, materials, surface finishes, packaging and order quantities.
Weight Benches and Strength Training Equipment
Adjustable weight benches, flat benches, multifunctional weight benches and other strength training equipment are suitable for home gyms and commercial fitness facilities.
Gym Accessories
Yoga mats, resistance bands, gym mats, dumbbell bars, fitness accessories and other small fitness products can also be included in a wholesale purchasing plan.
Combining different fitness equipment categories in one shipment may help buyers make better use of container capacity and manage international shipping costs.
Why Visit a Fitness Equipment Factory?
A factory visit gives buyers the opportunity to:
- Inspect product materials and construction.
- Compare different models and specifications.
- Discuss OEM and private-label customization.
- Understand minimum order quantities.
- Check packaging and export arrangements.
- Discuss quality control and production schedules.
- Build long-term business relationships.
Contact MEDEKY FITNESS
MEDEKY FITNESS and MDK GYM supply a range of fitness equipment for international wholesale buyers.
Our product categories include treadmills, walking pads, spin bikes, dumbbells, kettlebells, weight benches and gym accessories.
We welcome international distributors, importers, wholesalers and fitness equipment retailers who are interested in sourcing products from China.
If you are planning to visit China to find reliable fitness equipment suppliers, you are welcome to contact MEDEKY to discuss your product requirements and business cooperation.
Visit our website: https://medekyfitness.com/
Explore our fitness equipment products and contact us to discuss wholesale orders, OEM customization and sourcing requirements.
We look forward to welcoming international buyers and building long-term business partnerships.
