🔌 Plugs & adapters
Yes. You'll need a universal travel adapter.
The voltage (220V) is close to the UK's 230V, so UK appliances work with just a plug adapter.
- Type A: Two flat parallel pins (no earth)
- Type C: Two round pins (the "Europlug")
- Type I: Two flat pins in a V, plus an earth pin
🕒 Time difference
China is 8 hours ahead of the UK in the UK winter and 7 hours ahead of the UK in the UK summer (the clocks change on different dates).
💶 Money & tipping
China uses the Chinese yuan (renminbi) (CNY).
Not expected in most places. Upmarket hotels may add a service charge.
🚗 Driving
Traffic drives on the right. Take extra care pulling out and at roundabouts, which go anticlockwise. Speed limits are signed in km/h. Convert km/h to mph →
🗣️ Language & phone
Main language: Mandarin Chinese. Dialling code: +86.
Quick answers for China
Places in China
Common questions
Do I need a plug adapter for China?
Yes. You'll need a universal travel adapter. The voltage (220V) is close to the UK's 230V, so UK appliances work with just a plug adapter.
What plug type does China use?
China uses type A, C, I: type A – Two flat parallel pins (no earth); type C – Two round pins (the "Europlug"); type I – Two flat pins in a V, plus an earth pin. The voltage is 220V at 50Hz.
What is the time difference between the UK and China?
China is 8 hours ahead of the UK in the UK winter and 7 hours ahead of the UK in the UK summer (the clocks change on different dates).
Which side of the road do they drive on in China?
On the right, unlike the UK. Take extra care at junctions and roundabouts, which go anticlockwise.
What currency is used in China?
The Chinese yuan (renminbi) (CNY).
Do you tip in China?
Not expected in most places. Upmarket hotels may add a service charge.
What is the dialling code for China?
+86. From a UK phone, dial +86 and drop the first 0 of the local number.
For passports, visas, entry requirements, health and safety advice, always check GOV.UK foreign travel advice before you travel.