First-day helper · Updated 2026
Your First 24 Hours in Shenzhen
Heading to Shenzhen and not sure where to start? Payment, apps, border crossing, VPN — the stuff that actually breaks your first day, sorted into one checklist.
Start the checklistSort these out before you land
Check If You Need a Visa
Check visa-free rules for your passport — many countries now qualify for up to 30 days.
Check your visa status →
Pick Your Border Crossing
Six border crossings, different queues. We pick the calmest one based on live data.
Find your crossing →
Build Your Day-One Checklist
Payment apps, VPN, eSIM, registration — the checklist that covers your first 24 hours.
Start the checklist →Action guides for Shenzhen
Payment & Essentials8 guides
7 moreShow less
Hong Kong to Shenzhen Border Crossing Guide (2026)
9 min read
How to Get a Chinese Phone Number as a Foreigner (2026)
9 min read
Best VPN for China in 2026: Astrill, ExpressVPN, Surfshark
VPN & eSIM12 min read
Alipay Not Working in China? Fix It in Under 2 Minutes
7 min read
eSIM China 2026: Best Data Plans for Shenzhen & China Travel
VPN & eSIM11 min read
Apps to Download Before Going to China and Shenzhen (2026)
6 min read
When Things Go Wrong in Shenzhen: Emergency Fix Guide
10 min read
Border & Getting There1 guide
Food & Drink1 guide
Things To Do5 guides
Trip Planning7 guides
6 moreShow less
China Visa Free for Americans: 10-Day Transit (2026)
11 min read
Where to Stay in Shenzhen: Neighborhoods for Every Trip Type
9 min read
Chinese Slang Decoded: 50 Words You'll Actually Hear
26 min read
China's 24-Hour Hotel Registration Rule for Foreigners
7 min read
Dental Tourism in Shenzhen: Real Prices, Clinics, Risks
8 min read
Things to Know Before Visiting China — and Shenzhen
10 min read