Shopping & Markets

Three honest paths: (1) Add to trip — save stops into Travel Planner and shape a draft. (2) Check availability — open partner/official links when shown; booking and payment stay with that provider. (3) Request planning help — leave a contact when you want human assist preparing questions (not a confirmed reservation).

For most local partners — hair salons, nail bars, foot spas, hotpot, night markets — Alipay or WeChat Pay is the default. Link a foreign Visa/Mastercard to Alipay Tour Card before you go. Some hotels and international clinics take cards; street food and small shops usually do not. Keep ¥500–1000 cash as backup.

Yes. Prefer partners that accept cash, foreign cards, or Alipay only — use Prep guides and listing notes. WeChat Pay is helpful but not required for every experience. For card acceptance and daily limits, see the traveler Q&A and payment overview.

Hanfu shoots, popular TCM clinics, and peak-hour hotpot: often 3–7 days ahead (2+ weeks around National Day / Spring Festival). Hair and nails: often 1–2 days or same-day walk-in. Great Wall / panda morning slots: reserve early in peak season via official or partner channels — ChinaPie listings help you compare, not hold inventory.

Tipping is not expected in China and is often politely refused at salons, spas, and restaurants. Optional exceptions: private guides (~¥50–100/day for excellent service) and sometimes spa therapists (~¥20–50). Never tip at hotpot spots, night markets, or metro — it can feel awkward.

Prefer licensed venues. Tuina uses firmer acupoint pressure than Western massage — tell them about injuries, pregnancy, or conditions, and start with 30 minutes. Say qīng yì diǎn (lighter) if needed. Use Prep safety notes and verify the venue yourself; ChinaPie does not operate clinics.