Traveling to China? What You Need to Know About Hotels

1. Legal & Policy Requirements

Passport registration is mandatory
By law, all foreigners staying at a hotel in China must register with their passport. Hotels are required to scan your passport information and upload it to the local Public Security Bureau (police system). If a hotel doesn’t complete this step, it’s not legally allowed to host foreign guests.

Hotels must be licensed to host foreigners
Only hotels with a special foreign guest license can legally accommodate international travelers. Most 4-star, 5-star, and international hotel chains (like Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, IHG) are authorized. Smaller guesthouses, hostels, and Airbnbs might not be.

Temporary accommodation (non-hotel stays)
If you’re staying with friends, family, or in an Airbnb-style rental, you must register your stay at the local police station within 24 hours. In some big cities, this can be done online. Failure to register may result in a fine.

2. Check-in & Check-out Process

Check-in requirements
You’ll need your passport (with valid visa or residence permit). Some hotels may also take a photo for their records. Major international credit cards are usually accepted for pre-authorization.

Deposit policy
Most hotels will ask for a cash or card deposit (usually between RMB 100–1000). Even if you prepaid on platforms like Booking.com, you may still need to leave a deposit. It’s refunded upon check-out.

Check-out time
Most hotels require guests to check out by 12:00 noon. Staying later could result in extra charges. Some hotels allow late check-out until 2:00 PM for loyal customers or high-tier members.

3. Choosing the Right Hotel

Stick to licensed foreign-friendly hotels
International chains (Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, etc.) almost always accept foreign guests. Some Chinese brands (Huazhu, Jinjiang, GreenTree) have branches that are licensed, but always double-check.

Confirm before booking
Always ask directly: “Do you accept foreign guests with passports?” Some smaller-city hotels might show availability online but still reject foreign passports upon arrival.

Location matters
In big cities, foreign-friendly hotels are usually near business districts or tourist attractions. In smaller cities, they may be limited, so booking in advance is highly recommended.

4. Cultural & Service Differences

• Bed sizes: A “double bed” in China may be smaller than Western standards. Book a King Bed or Twin Beds if you prefer more space.
• Smoking: Even in “non-smoking rooms,” smoke odor may linger in some local hotels. Sensitive guests should request international chains or confirm in advance.
• Drinking water: Tap water in China is not safe to drink. Use bottled water or boil water with the kettle provided.
• Payment methods: High-end hotels accept Visa/MasterCard/Amex. Budget hotels may only accept cash (RMB) or mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay.
• Amenities: Most hotels provide free toothbrushes, toothpaste, combs, and slippers—items often replaced daily by housekeeping.
• Wi-Fi & Internet: Wi-Fi is usually free, but international sites (Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, etc.) may be blocked. Consider setting up a legal VPN or cross-border internet solution before your trip.

5. Practical Tips for Foreign Travelers

• Always carry your passport – You’ll need it for hotel check-ins, entering scenic spots, taking high-speed trains, or banking services.
• Book early during peak holidays – During Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) and National Day, hotels—especially those licensed for foreigners—get fully booked fast.
• Keep your invoice (Fapiao) – This may be required for reimbursements or visa extensions.
• Language – Staff at high-end hotels usually speak English. At smaller hotels, use a translation app to communicate more smoothly.