What changed this month
Short, dated updates on reservation rules, seasonal hours, closures and events — the kind of changes that quietly break itineraries.
Most Visa-Free Entry Rules Run Out on Dec 31, 2026 — Check Yours Before Booking 2027
China's unilateral visa-free policy for nearly 50 countries expires Dec 31, 2026. No extension has been announced. Here is who is covered and what to do now.
Fake Arrival-Card Websites Are Charging Visitors — the Official One Is Free
China's online arrival card (live since Nov 2025) must be filed free via official NIA channels. Scam sites are charging fees. Here are the real channels.
The Forbidden City's ID Checks Are Getting Stricter — Photos and Copies Won't Pass
Face-recognition-assisted ID verification at the Meridian Gate means the passport you booked with must be the passport you carry. Plus the no-show penalties you should know.
The Forbidden City Switches to Winter Hours on Nov 1 — Gates Close an Hour Earlier
From Nov 1 the Palace Museum runs 08:30–16:30 with last entry at 15:30 and a ¥40 ticket. Yanxi Palace reopens Nov 1; Wuying Hall stays shut.
Badaling's North-Line Cableway Is Down Until Dec 25 — South-Line Funicular Still Runs
Badaling's north-line aerial cableway closed Oct 20 for maintenance until Dec 25. The south-line ground cable car operates normally and tickets are interchangeable. Winter wind rules explained.
Xiangshan Red-Leaf Festival Is On Through Nov 15 — But the Cableway Is Down
Beijing's Fragrant Hills red-leaf season runs Oct 16 – Nov 15, peaking late October. Entry is ¥10, weekend roads are controlled, and the summit cableway is suspended for upgrades.
Staying in an Apartment or a Friend's Home? Registration Can Now Be Done Online, Nationwide
Since Sep 21, 2026, foreigners staying anywhere other than a hotel can complete police registration online via NIA 12367 — no trip to the local station required.
Tax Refunds Went Fully Paperless on July 1 — One QR Code Now Covers Your Whole Trip
Departure tax refund 2.0 has been live for a quarter: scan once for a nationwide refund code, no paper forms, and random checks for claims under ¥10,000. How it works in practice.