China Travel Guide for Adoptees: How to Prepare for Your Visit

Visiting China as an adoptee can be an emotional and transformative experience. Whether you're going to explore your heritage, visit your orphanage, or simply experience the country for the first time, preparation is key. From visas and immigration to cultural differences and must-visit destinations, here’s everything you need to know to make your trip smoother.

1. Get Your Visa Before You Fly

I strongly recommend securing your visa before you leave your home country. While you may have heard of people getting visas in Hong Kong or other cities upon arrival, the scrutiny for adoptees can be much tougher. Many have faced long delays, extra questioning, or even denial at the border.

To avoid unnecessary stress, apply through your local Chinese embassy or consulate. Processing times vary, so start early. Make sure to gather all necessary documents, including proof of your itinerary, hotel bookings, and a return ticket.

2. Prepare for Cultural Differences

Even if you’ve grown up in an environment surrounded by Chinese culture, nothing fully prepares you for experiencing it firsthand. The biggest culture shocks for most travelers include:

🚽 Toilets: Many public restrooms are squat toilets, and toilet paper isn’t always provided. ALWAYS carry tissues and hand sanitizer.

🤧 Spitting: It’s common to hear loud throat clearing and spitting, especially among older generations.

🚬 Smoking: Smoking indoors is still widely accepted, even in restaurants.

💳 Cashless Society: China operates almost entirely through mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay). As a foreigner, getting these set up can be tricky, so carry cash or use a UnionPay-compatible card.

🗣 Language Barrier: Unless you're in major international hubs like Shanghai or Beijing, don’t expect many people to speak English. Translation apps like Google Translate will be lifesavers.

3. What to Expect at Immigration

Immigration can feel intimidating, but don’t stress too much. You’ll likely be asked:

• Why are you visiting?

• Where are you going?

• Do you speak Chinese?

• Are your parents Chinese?

• Do you have a Chinese name?

💡 Tip: If you have a Chinese name (even if you don’t use it), add it to your documents. If you can’t write the characters, Pinyin is fine. If you get asked something you don’t know how to answer, just look confused—it usually works.

4. Have All Your Documents Ready

Immigration officers love paperwork, so be prepared. Keep multiple copies of everything, including:
✅ Passport and visa
✅ Adoption paperwork (if relevant)
✅ Any Chinese ID or passport you might have had
✅ Travel itinerary and hotel confirmations
✅ Parent’s passports (some offices weirdly request these)

The first time I went, I was so flustered I just shoved my entire folder at them—don’t do that. Hand over only what’s necessary, and keep your originals safe (e.g. don’t bring them with you, except obviously your passport).

If you decide to get your visa in China (which I don’t recommend), do your research carefully. The required documents can be oddly specific and you don’t want to get all the way there only to then be denied entry.

5. Register with Your Government (Just in Case)

Check if your government offers travel registration programs. For example, the U.S. has the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which notifies you of local embassy contacts and any emergencies.

While nothing is likely to happen, it’s always good to have embassy details on hand—especially since Google Maps won’t work in China.

6. What to Do & Where to Visit

Of course, if you're visiting your orphanage or birth city, that will be a priority. But don't forget to explore beyond that! Treat this as an adventure and make the most of your time.

If this is your first (or maybe only) visit to China, here are some must-see places:

• Shanghai – A mix of modern skyscrapers and colonial history, plus the iconic Bund.

• Beijing – The Great Wall, Forbidden City, and all the must-see historical sites.

• Xi’an – Home of the Terracotta Warriors and rich ancient history.

• Chengdu – Pandas, spicy hot pot, and a laid-back vibe.

• Zhangjiajie or Guilin – Stunning natural landscapes that will take your breath away.

China is massive, and each region has something unique to offer. If time allows, try to experience both the urban and rural sides of the country.

Final Thoughts

Visiting China as an adoptee is a deeply personal journey, and preparation can make all the difference. While there may be challenges—whether at immigration, with cultural differences, or even just emotionally—it’s worth it.

Approach the experience with an open mind, allow yourself to take it all in, and most importantly, enjoy the journey.

Thinking about making the trip? Let me know if you have any questions!