Travel Tips

Visa
Will I need a visa to travel to Shanghai, China?
Good news - citizens of certain countries can visit China visa-free! Check below to see if you need to obtain a visa. If you plan on staying longer than the days noted below, you must apply for a visa.
U.S. Citizens
- Eligible for 10 days of visa-free travel to China
Canadian Citizens
- Eligible for 10 days of visa-free travel to China
Australian Citizens
- Eligible for 30 days of visa-free travel to China
New Zealand Citizens
- Eligible for 30 days of visa-free travel to China
How do I obtain a visa for China?
If you plan to stay in China longer than the visa-free period, you'll need to apply for a visa in advance. Here's how:
1. Start Your Application
Begin the process preferably at least 2 months before your trip to allow time for approval. Apply online here: China Visa Application Portal
2. Choose the Right Visa
- We recommend the Tourist Visa (Category L)
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You may choose a 1-year, 2-year, or 10-year multiple-entry visa (depending on eligibility and your nationality)
3. Prepare Your Documents
- A passport-style portrait photo with a white background
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Additional documents as required in the online form
4. Submit Your Application
After completing the online form, submit your application at your nearest Chinese consulate.You can find consulate locations through the visa portal link above.
Shanghai
What is so cool about Shanghai?
Our favorite part about Shanghai is the way it blends modern innovation with timeless charm. From strolling through tree-lined, historic streets to discovering hidden specialty shops, every corner offers something unique. Check the bottom for a photo gallery of our recent trip to Shanghai!
A few of our favorite restaurants...
1. Shanghai Tang - Classier vibes and fancier spins on Shanghainese classics.

2. Fu 1039 - Michelin-starred Shanghainese restaurant hidden in an old villa that serves cozy food.

3. Hefeng Mizzle - Upscale local dishes with just the right amount of flair.

4. FeiDaChu - The best cozy home-style cooking from Hunan.

5. Long Time Ago Mutton Shashlik - Described by Kevin as an absolute revelation in culinary technology -- best skewers ever.

6. Kentucky Fried Chicken - You may think we're crazy, but the egg tarts are heaven (we went ten times in 2 weeks).

7. Pho Thin - Northern-style Vietnamese Pho -- one of our favorites out of the many Vietnamese restaurants in Shanghai.
Some sights to explore...
1. The Bund - You haven’t really been to Shanghai if you haven’t seen the Bund. Super touristy, but worth a quick stroll for the views -- snap a pic, then keep it moving.

2. Xintiandi / Huaihai Road - Trendy and stylish. Cute cafes, historic alleyways, and high-end shopping all in one spot. Perfect for a chill afternoon.

3. MaoMing Road - A fun mix of old-school bars and cool new spots. Great for casual drinks and late-night hangs.

4. Wukang Building / Former French Concession - The surrounding area is the most Instagrammable or RedNoteable corner of the city. Cute architecture, leafy streets -- ideal for some wandering.