Tour-to-China is a small travel service company. We do not aim to compete for market share. Instead, we focus on providing simple, affordable, and reliable travel services within our capabilities.

Our services are mainly designed for people with ordinary incomes. We are committed to making travel to China accessible and affordable for this group. We believe that traveling to China should not be a financial burden. It should not be something exclusive to high-income travelers, but an experience that more people can afford.

To achieve this, we do our best to help our clients save costs at every step. Even with a limited budget, we want our clients to fully experience the scenery and culture of China.

Based on this philosophy, we have designed a complete service process with clear and transparent pricing. At the same time, we try to give as much choice as possible back to our clients, so that each traveler can freely decide how their journey should be arranged according to their own needs.

The founder of Tour-to-China, Enley, also spent many years as an ordinary income earner and understands how hard-earned every dollar can be. Traveling to China is a considerable expense, and for many people, it may be a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Therefore, within each client's budget, we aim to provide cost-effective travel solutions based on their interests, schedule, budget, and personal preferences. This includes helping clients make better decisions in areas such as transportation, accommodation, and itinerary planning.

We sincerely hope that every traveler who chooses Tour-to-China will feel the care and sincerity behind our service.

Today, we introduce our Travel Service Model 1: Fixed Itinerary Tours. 

Fixed Itinerary Tours Explained

A fixed itinerary tour is based on your chosen destination. According to the length of your trip, we will provide you with 1 to 5 different fixed travel routes for you to choose from. The number of available routes may vary depending on the destination: popular destinations usually offer more route options, while less popular destinations may have fewer choices.

For example, if you choose Beijing for a 5-day trip, we will provide several itinerary options within those 5 days based in Beijing. If you choose Xi’an for a 7-day trip, we will offer corresponding travel plans within that timeframe. If you choose Yunnan for an 8-day trip, we will likewise design multiple route options based on those 8 days. And so on.

This is the basic concept of fixed itinerary tours. The itinerary may include paid attractions, free attractions, or a combination of both. For each attraction, we will clearly indicate whether it requires an entrance fee and list all related costs in detail, ensuring transparency in travel expenses and flexibility in route selection.

In addition to this,there are also several other modes are available.

Tourism Service Model 2: Name-Your-Price Model 

Tourism Service Model 3: Lowest Price Local Life Experience Model

Tourism Service Model 4: Free-Attraction Route Model 

Tourism Service Model 5: Rural Tourism Model

Tourism Service Model 6: Fully Customized Travel Model

Tourism Service Model 7: Assisted Guidance Model 

In the following, we will introduce the processes and services related to this travel model.

The First Step to International Travel: Getting Your Passport

If you do not have a passport, the first step is to apply for one. A passport is an essential document for international travel. You can bring identification and other required materials to your country’s immigration or passport authority to submit your application. After a certain processing period, you will be able to collect it.

For example, if you are a U.S. citizen in New York, you will need to bring your birth certificate, a valid form of identification (such as a driver’s license), a recent passport photo, and a completed passport application form (Form DS-11) to a local passport acceptance facility or post office. Generally, standard processing takes about 6–8 weeks, while expedited service may take around 2–3 weeks.

Please note that the required documents and application locations may vary depending on the country and region. Therefore, you should check your local passport application procedures to ensure you are fully prepared and able to complete the process smoothly.

What to Do If You Lose Your Passport While Traveling in China

The Next Step: Confirming Your Travel Dates and Destination

After obtaining your passport, the next step is to confirm your travel dates and destination. This is a crucial part of travel planning, as your visa application, flight bookings, and coordination with us for travel services will all be arranged based on your schedule and destination.

This also affects whether we can secure more favorable flight prices for you. At the same time, we will coordinate suitable accommodation based on your travel dates and destination to help reduce your lodging costs, while making necessary preparations for the entire itinerary in advance.

Although this is a fixed itinerary tour, we still carry out thorough preparations beforehand. For example, we check the weather during your travel period so we can advise you on appropriate clothing. We also verify whether any attractions at your destination are temporarily closed or undergoing adjustments, so we can make timely changes to the itinerary if needed. In addition, this includes ticket reservations and transportation arrangements.

Therefore, our company will communicate with you in advance to confirm your destination and travel dates, ensuring a smooth and well-organized trip.

Step Three: Applying for Your Visa

After that, it’s time to apply for your visa. You can either apply on your own or entrust a travel agency or a professional service to handle it for you. Whether you are traveling alone, in a small group of 2–5 people, or with your family, a personal tourist visa is generally sufficient. You can prepare your own documents and submit them to the Chinese embassy, consulate, or visa center, or you can have a travel agency assist in organizing your documents and submitting the application on your behalf. However, the agency cannot attend the interview or provide fingerprinting for you, unless you meet the conditions for fingerprint exemption. Only fully organized tour groups require the travel agency to handle a group tourist visa collectively.

Visa requirements vary slightly by country, so you should choose the appropriate method based on your travel situation. We will provide guidance and reminders according to your travel dates and visa type to ensure a smooth application process. Whether you are traveling alone, in a small group, or as a family, this will help you take the first step toward your international journey.

Important Points to Note When Applying for a Visa

Factors That May Affect the Success of Your Visa Application

Step Four: Booking Your Flights

After completing the visa application, the next step is to book your flights. There are generally two ways to do this: you can either book the tickets yourself or entrust a travel agency to handle the booking on your behalf.

It is important to note that we do not guarantee that flights booked through us will always be cheaper than those you book on your own. Therefore, we typically compare both options and choose the one that offers the better price.

As we have always emphasized, we are committed to providing affordable travel services for everyone. Throughout the process, we maintain close communication with our clients to ensure that they get the lowest possible price for every service.

Compared with other travel agencies that focus on promoting packaged deals, one of our most distinctive features is flexibility. Our business philosophy has never been to pursue market share. Instead, we aim to complement the current travel service market by offering services that many travel agencies are unwilling to provide or have chosen to overlook.

When Not to Travel to China: A Complete Guide

China Travel Guide: How to Find Cheap Flights

China Travel Flight Booking: Pros, Cons, and Best Choice

Step Five: Packing for Your Trip to China

Next comes packing your luggage. Among all the items you bring, clothing and shoes usually take up the most space. Depending on the season you travel to China, the clothing you need may vary. As a reliable travel service provider, we will check the weather during your travel dates in advance and give you practical packing suggestions, helping you avoid bringing unsuitable clothing and wasting luggage space. Even in case of sudden weather changes, there is no need to worry—cities across China have well-developed shopping centers where you can easily find clothing at various price ranges.

In addition to clothing, you should also prepare your communication devices, such as your phone, tablet, or camera, along with their chargers. It is also recommended to bring a power bank and a plug adapter. For daily expenses, prepare cash and bank cards. As for personal items, men may need to bring a razor, while women may wish to carry a handbag and travel-sized cosmetics that comply with airline regulations. Toiletries can be brought if you prefer to use your own, but if not, most hotels or our accommodations will provide basic disposable items. Most importantly, do not forget your passport and Chinese visa.

Some travelers may be concerned about food differences, so you may bring a small amount of snacks if needed—it depends on personal preference.

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, please be sure to bring your regular medication and inform us in advance. There is no need to hesitate in sharing this information. On one hand, it allows us to make necessary preparations, such as medical support if needed; on the other hand, we can adjust the itinerary to avoid activities that may be too physically demanding, ensuring your safety. Your safety is always our top priority.

Additionally, items such as an eye mask, earplugs, and a blanket can be brought based on your needs (some flights may provide them, so they are optional). If you are unsure whether to bring certain items or whether they are allowed, feel free to contact us for confirmation.

China Travel Essentials: What to Pack in Your Luggage

How to Travel to China with Your Pet: A Complete Guide

Traveling to China? Avoid These Restricted and Banned Items

Step Six: Setting Up Mobile Payment Apps

Some travelers may want to experience the convenience of mobile payments in China in advance. Therefore, before boarding your flight, you can download Alipay or WeChat. Please note that at this stage, the payment functions of these apps will be limited.

However, beyond payments, both apps offer a variety of useful features, such as messaging, voice and video calls, Moments (social feed), and other in-app services. This means that even before entering China, you can start exploring their social functions—for example, adding our service staff on WeChat and getting familiar with how the apps work. These features will continue to be available even after your trip.

The reason payment functions are not yet available is that identity verification has not been completed. To activate payment features, you must upload your passport and have an official record of entry into China—both are required. Therefore, payment verification can only be completed after you arrive in China.

Once you have entered the country, our staff will guide you through the verification process, as well as help you link your bank card or top up your account. There is no need to worry—we will assist you every step of the way.

For repeat visits, you do not need to upload your passport again, but you will need to update your latest entry record.

Step Seven: Staying Connected in China

In addition to mobile payments, you may also be concerned about communication and internet access after entering China. There are several options to solve this:

The first option is to activate international roaming with your home country’s mobile number. This allows you to make calls, receive messages, and use mobile data. However, the cost of data and calls is relatively high, so it is more suitable for travelers with a higher budget.

The second option is to purchase a local Chinese SIM card using your passport. This option offers lower call costs, larger data allowances, and faster internet speeds. However, this SIM card is generally only usable within China and will not be useful after you return to your home country.

The third option, if you do not need to make phone calls, is to use a VPN along with a portable WiFi device provided by us. While this option does not support calling, it allows you to access your social media accounts and use your usual apps without issues.

In general, the most cost-effective solution is to combine the lowest-cost international roaming plan (mainly for receiving messages) with a portable WiFi device. This way, you can handle essential communication needs while also ensuring smooth internet access and social media usage.

China Travel Internet Guide: Access Wi-Fi, Mobile Data, and VPN

Step Eight: Final Check Before Departure

Once all preparations are complete, you are ready to board your flight to China on your scheduled date. Before departure, make sure to double-check that you have the following essential items: your passport (with sufficient validity), your Chinese visa (or entry permit), your flight tickets and itinerary (electronic or printed), and your payment methods (cash and bank cards).

These items are absolutely essential. Other belongings can be replaced or purchased after you arrive in China if forgotten or lost, but these key documents and items must be carried with you to ensure a smooth journey and entry process.

Step Nine: Immigration and Border Control

After arriving at the airport in China, you will need to complete entry declaration and border inspection procedures. There are several ways to do this, and here we recommend the most convenient and efficient option:

After disembarking, you can go directly to a self-service arrival card machine. Follow the instructions to fill in the required information and complete the necessary steps, then print your arrival card. After that, bring your passport and arrival card to the border control checkpoint for identity verification. Once approved, your passport will be stamped, and you will be cleared to enter. You can then proceed to baggage claim to collect your luggage and exit the airport.

Alternatively, you may also complete the entry declaration through your mobile phone if you are familiar with the process. In most cases, there will be announcements on the plane before landing to guide you.

If you are unsure about any part of the process, you can always ask airport staff or volunteers for assistance—they will be happy to guide you.

Step Ten: Airport Pickup and Transportation Options

After you exit the airport, our staff will be there to pick you up, regardless of your arrival time. We provide round-trip airport transfer services. This means that when you arrive in China, we will pick you up from the airport and take you to your accommodation (hotel or our directly provided lodging). When you depart, we will also arrange transportation to take you back to the airport.

For airport transfers, we do not fix a single transportation method. Instead, we leave all options open for you to choose based on your needs and budget. Available options include, but are not limited to, the subway, taxis, ride-hailing services, and our private car service.

In major cities in China, taking the subway to and from the airport is very convenient and cost-effective. Therefore, if your destination is a large city, we usually recommend taking the subway, and we do not charge any additional service fees—you only need to pay the subway fare yourself. The subway is punctual and avoids traffic congestion. However, it does not operate late at night, so if your flight is outside operating hours, this option will not be available.

Taxis are also a common and reliable option. Taxi services in China are generally well-regulated, so you do not need to worry about being overcharged or asked for tips. Ride-hailing services are another convenient choice. You can book a ride through apps such as WeChat or Alipay by entering your pickup and drop-off locations, and you will see the estimated fare in advance, ensuring full price transparency.

Of course, our company also offers private car transfer services. In less popular cities, our private car service may be a more convenient option. Overall, we provide flexible choices and do not require you to use our company’s transfer service—we respect your preferences.

Step Eleven: Accommodation Options

When it comes to accommodation, you have two options: staying in a hotel or choosing our directly provided accommodations. Generally, our accommodations are more affordable. The money you save can be used to visit more attractions, buy more items,enjoy additional activities or reduce other consumption activities.

As we have emphasized before, our services are designed mainly for travelers with a moderate budget. If a large portion of your expenses is spent on flights and accommodation, it may limit your ability to fully enjoy other aspects of the trip. This could mean shortening your travel duration, giving up certain attractions you wish to visit, or skipping souvenirs you would like to buy.

Of course, we always respect your freedom of choice. You are welcome to compare options and decide whether to stay in a hotel or choose our accommodations. With us, comparing prices and options is fully encouraged.

Typically, we will provide you with photos and videos of the accommodation for your confirmation. Please note that our accommodations are not fixed in one location, as they may also be used by other teams within our company. Therefore, once your booking is confirmed, changes may be difficult. Due to the lower cost, these accommodations are often in high demand.

In addition to being affordable, our accommodations offer a unique advantage: they provide a more authentic experience of everyday life in China. This is different from hotels, which tend to offer a more standardized and business-oriented environment. All of our accommodations are equipped with surveillance cameras, so you do not need to worry about safety. For your information, installing cameras in public areas is very common and considered normal in China.

Additionally, some accommodations are equipped with kitchens and allow cooking. If you are lucky, you may even have the chance to enjoy homemade local dishes prepared by our staff. Generally, the more you dine out, the higher your overall food expenses will be. Of course, there are plenty of dining options available outside, ranging from simple meals to more elaborate dining experiences, allowing you to choose based on your preferences.

Step Twelve: Arrival, Rest, and Getting Settled

After arriving at your accommodation, if it is nighttime, it is recommended to have a simple meal first—such as takeout or a light meal (if it's not too late)—and then get some rest to adjust to the time difference. It is not recommended to go for a large or heavy meal right after arrival, as you will have plenty of opportunities to enjoy more elaborate dining during your trip.

Another consideration is that some travelers may experience mild discomfort or difficulty adjusting to a new environment when they first arrive. For this reason, we suggest giving yourself some time to gradually adapt, so it does not affect the rest of your itinerary. After all, making this trip is not easy, and our goal is to provide thoughtful arrangements that minimize unexpected issues and ensure your journey goes smoothly without unnecessary disruptions.

If you arrive during the daytime and feel well-rested and willing, you can also choose to go out for a meal or begin light sightseeing.

There is no need to worry too much about food expenses. China offers a wide range of dining options, from budget-friendly meals to high-end restaurants, allowing you to choose based on your preferences and budget.

Step Thirteen: Itinerary Planning and Flexibility

In a fixed itinerary tour, the overall schedule is usually arranged in a structured order. This arrangement is based on several key considerations.

First, we aim to avoid unnecessary backtracking. Attractions in the same direction are typically grouped within the same day and arranged either from near to far or from far to near, helping to reduce travel time and improve overall efficiency.

Second, we plan the itinerary with a balanced level of physical activity. For example, if the morning includes more physically demanding activities, the afternoon will be arranged with lighter and more relaxing attractions to ensure a comfortable experience.

Third, we take into account the characteristics of the group. If there are elderly travelers, we will prioritize flatter and less physically demanding locations. If there are children, we will recommend more engaging and child-friendly attractions.

Of course, if you have your own preferences regarding the order of visits—such as wanting to see a specific attraction first—you are welcome to let us know. We are flexible and will make adjustments whenever possible. However, some attractions require advance reservations, which may limit the ability to change the order. For attractions that do not require reservations or are free to enter, adjustments are generally easier to make.

When it comes to travel style, we consistently advocate for a more relaxed pace. Rather than rushing to check off every attraction, we focus on providing a more immersive and enjoyable experience. As a result, our schedules are designed with more flexibility and breathing room. Under normal circumstances, you should be able to visit all the attractions included in your selected itinerary.

That said, no itinerary can completely avoid unexpected situations. For example, you may find a particular place especially interesting and spend more time there than planned, which could delay your next stop. Traffic congestion may also affect your schedule, or unforeseen circumstances such as illness or minor injuries may require adjustments.

If any unexpected situation arises, we will communicate with you promptly and make flexible adjustments based on the situation—such as shortening certain parts of the itinerary, skipping specific attractions, or replacing them with closer or more suitable alternatives—to ensure your trip continues as smoothly as possible.

Step Fourteen: Transportation Planning Principles

When arranging transportation during your trip, we generally follow three key principles: convenience, cost-efficiency, and respect for the traveler's preferences.

The principle of convenience means prioritizing the most efficient and time-saving mode of transportation. For example, in some major cities in China, driving is not always faster than taking the subway or bus. In such cases, we usually recommend public transportation to save time and allow for more sightseeing. From a cost perspective, these options are often more economical as well. However, this is only a common scenario and does not apply to all situations.

For longer distances, options such as self-driving, ride-hailing services, or buses may be more convenient and are therefore recommended when appropriate. For cross-city travel, such as visiting destinations that are farther apart, trains, high-speed rail, or short-haul flights are often necessary, as other transportation methods may not be practical. In some major cities, there is also the option of "air taxis" (helicopter services), which can enable faster cross-regional travel, although at a significantly higher cost.

In addition, some travelers may wish to experience unique or local transportation methods, such as boats, rickshaws, multi-person bicycles, sleds, or cable cars. These options can also be arranged when available and suitable for the itinerary.

It is important to note that we do not always prioritize the lowest-cost option when planning transportation. Some budget options may require significantly more time, which can reduce the overall travel experience. In such cases, the quality of the travel experience takes priority over cost savings, as the primary purpose of the trip is to travel and enjoy the journey. This approach differs from other parts of the planning process where cost-saving may be emphasized.

At the same time, we always respect the traveler's preferences. The final choice of transportation will be discussed and confirmed with you in advance, provided that the option is feasible and suitable for the itinerary. If you have a clear preference and understand the associated costs and trade-offs, we will do our best to accommodate your request. Overall, transportation planning takes into account time, convenience, and budget in order to provide the most suitable solution.

Please also note that certain transportation methods—especially for cross-city travel—require advance booking, such as trains, high-speed rail, flights, and air taxis. In practice, travel often involves a combination of different transportation methods rather than a single one. For example, a journey may include self-driving + high-speed rail + self-driving, or ride-hailing + shared bicycles, depending on what is most efficient and practical.

Step Fifteen: Dining Arrangements

There is no fixed standard for dining arrangements. This is mainly because China offers an incredible diversity of cuisine, and each region has its own signature dishes. For example, Beijing is known for Peking Duck, Wuhan for Hot Dry Noodles, Guangdong for White Cut Chicken, Chongqing for Hot Pot, and Xinjiang for Big Plate Chicken. Even within different scenic areas, you may encounter unique local specialties.

In addition, food in China comes in many forms, including full meals, light meals, street food, breakfast, late-night snacks, as well as a wide range of snacks and beverages. Some specialties are only available during certain traditional festivals, which vary by region and time of year, making them somewhat seasonal and not always guaranteed during your trip. In more remote areas, you may also discover distinctive local flavors.

Travel is not only about exploring destinations and enjoying scenic views, but also about experiencing diverse food cultures. For this reason, dining arrangements cannot be fully standardized. However, we will provide recommendations based on your destinations to help you enjoy authentic, local, and reasonably priced cuisine. For instance, we may suggest trying local snacks while visiting scenic spots, or arrange visits to night markets (where available), allowing you to experience the local atmosphere and sample a variety of foods.

Please inform us in advance if you have any food allergies, dietary restrictions (such as vegetarian or religious requirements), pre-existing medical conditions, or any special health needs. This will help us avoid recommending unsuitable foods and ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience throughout your trip.

Step Sixteen: Travel Insurance Essentials

Travel insurance is one expense that should never be overlooked when planning a trip to China. No one can guarantee that unexpected situations won't occur during the journey. Without insurance, accidents or emergencies can lead to significant financial burdens, or even pose serious risks to personal safety. Therefore, we strongly recommend that all travelers purchase appropriate travel insurance before departure to effectively protect themselves against potential risks.

When selecting a policy, the key focus should be on coverage. First and foremost, ensure that the medical coverage is sufficient. In addition, the policy should include 24-hour multilingual emergency assistance, medical evacuation services, and support for situations such as lost passports and baggage protection. The coverage period should span the entire trip, and it is advisable to extend it by an extra 1–2 days to account for possible delays or itinerary changes.

To purchase travel insurance, travelers typically need to prepare a valid passport, visa information, and a detailed travel itinerary (including duration and destinations). Although most providers offer electronic policies, we still recommend downloading and printing a hard copy for use in case of emergencies.

As for purchasing methods, travelers can either buy insurance independently or include it as part of a travel agency package. Our agency also provides assistance with the insurance application process. Based on our experience, a larger proportion of travelers prefer to purchase insurance independently. This is mainly because it offers a greater sense of trust and familiarity with their home country's claims process. In the event of an emergency, they can respond more quickly without needing to rely on third-party assistance.

Overall, there is no clear advantage or disadvantage between these two approaches. Travelers can choose the method that best suits their preferences. The most important thing is to ensure adequate coverage, providing peace of mind throughout the journey.

Travel Insurance for China: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors

Step Seventeen: Souvenirs and Shipping Services

China offers a wide variety of unique and interesting products, and shopping for souvenirs is an enjoyable part of the travel experience. When it comes to souvenirs, we do not impose any restrictions. Travelers are free to decide whether to buy or not, as well as what to buy, as long as the decision is voluntary and within their budget. Before making a purchase, you are also welcome to consult us for general price guidance to help avoid overpaying for overpriced items. As a travel agency committed to providing affordable travel experiences for everyday people, we also hope that you are able to purchase souvenirs that truly offer good value for money. 

To make your journey more convenient, we provide a souvenir packing and shipping service. For smaller items, you may choose to carry them with you. However, if you purchase larger quantities or bulky items that are inconvenient to carry, you can entrust us to ship them back to your home, helping you avoid heavy and cumbersome luggage during your trip.

Whether or not to use this service is entirely up to your personal needs. Shipping costs will be covered by the traveler, and you may choose your preferred shipping method—such as sea, land, or air—based on your timeline and budget. We only charge a small service fee for packing and coordination.

Please note that shipping contraband or items prohibited under Chinese laws and regulations is illegal. We are unable to assist with the shipment of such items. We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the relevant regulations before purchasing and shipping to ensure a smooth and safe process.

What to Buy in China: Most Popular Souvenirs for Tourists

Step Eighteen: Handling Unexpected Situations During Your Trip

No itinerary can completely prevent unexpected events, such as sudden weather changes, traffic congestion, Journey delay, sudden illness, accidental injuries, and other unforeseen circumstances. During the trip, we will make flexible adjustments to the itinerary with your consent to ensure your safety and overall experience.

For example, before you depart from your home country, we provide weather forecasts for your travel dates. However, during the tour, if sudden weather changes prevent you from following the original plan, we will consult with you and adjust accordingly, such as replacing outdoor activities with indoor alternatives for that day.

Other possible measures in response to uncontrollable factors may include shortening parts of the itinerary, canceling specific attractions, substituting closer or more suitable destinations, changing transportation methods, or arranging medical assistance. All adjustments are made with the goal of ensuring a smooth, safe, and comfortable trip while minimizing the impact on your overall travel experience.

Final Remarks

This concludes the overall process and services for our Model 1: Fixed Itinerary Tours. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please feel free to contact us. If you notice any missing information, you are also welcome to let us know, and we will promptly update and improve our content.

In addition, we offer a special benefit for our previous clients: if you refer colleagues, friends, or acquaintances to purchase our travel services, they can enjoy a 5% discount with your email referral.