Visas
China offers various visa-free policies for nationals of certain countries, allowing stays of up to 30 days or more under specific conditions.
Participants who require a visa to enter China should submit the necessary application as soon as possible to the nearest diplomatic or consular representative of China.
Insurance Requirement
While organizers furnish basic accident coverage for in-country transportation, all participants must independently procure comprehensive insurance encompassing:
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Medical emergencies;
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Personal accidents;
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Liability arising from activities.
Upload policy documentation with application (see Required Documents above).
Visa Requirements
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Check if you need a visa to enter China based on your nationality.
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Official website for visa information: China Online VISA Application
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Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Currency
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The local currency is the Chinese Yuan, so called Renminbi (CNY, ¥).
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Currency exchange services are widely available at international airports, such as Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX), Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU), Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU), and throughout the city (banks, licensed money changers).
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Credit/debit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to set up Alipay or WeChat Pay and link to your international cards for convenient cashless payment.
Power Adapters & Voltage
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China uses Type A and Type I power sockets.
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The standard voltage is 220V, and the frequency is 50Hz.
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Please bring a universal adapter if your devices use different plug types.
Weather, Attire, and Caution
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For Beijing and Chengdu:
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Beijing and Chengdu have a continental climate, with hot, sultry, and occasionally rainy summers.
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Typical daytime temperatures range from 21.5°C to 32.2°C (70.7°F to 90°F) in August.
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Light, breathable clothing is recommended.
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The main venue of the summer school and most indoor places are air-conditioned, so a light jacket might be useful.
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For Daocheng (LHAASO):
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Please sleep early the night before the trip. Stay in good condition, and keep warm.
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Daocheng is located on the plateau, with dry weather, strong ultraviolet rays, and a large temperature difference between morning and evening. The temperature feels low, please prepare winter/cold-proof clothing and hats.
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Try to avoid getting cold. (Cold could be very serious on the plateau.)
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There may be rain and snow during the trip, so please bring rain gear.
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When you first arrive at the plateau, eat more vegetables and fruits, drink more water, and avoid overeating to avoid increasing the burden on the digestive organs.
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Avoid squatting, walk slowly, breathe deeply.
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It is strictly forbidden to take a shower or bath on the day of arriving at the plateau.
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Connectivity
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Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX), Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU), and Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU). The world-wide education roaming wireless access service (eduroam) is available at IHEP, Beijing and Tiafu CRRC, Chengdu. IHEP and Tiafu CRRC also have guest Wi-Fi, details for which will be provided. Many cafes and public areas offer free Wi-Fi.
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SIM Cards: You can purchase SIM cards from major Chinese carriers at the airport or local branches throughout the city from providers like China Mobile, China Telecom, or China Unicom.
Useful Apps
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Alipay: E-payment for shopping and public transport.
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WeChat: Instant messaging and e-payment.
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12306 China Railway: Train information and ticketing service.
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DiDi: Ride-hailing services.
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AMap Global: For navigation.
For more useful tips, please visit the official website of IHEP: Visiting IHEP
