Preparations for Overseas Travelers
A practical checklist for overseas travelers before going to Xinjiang: visas and entry, linking mobile payments, internet plans, commonly used apps, and personal medications.
Documents and Entry
Foreign travelers can visit Xinjiang with a valid Chinese visa; some border areas (such as Taxkorgan) require a separate border permit, with regulations different from those for Chinese citizens, so confirm each stop with your host before departure. It is recommended that your passport be valid for more than six months, and hotels require the original passport for registration.
Payment
Alipay and WeChat Pay both support foreign card linking; link your card and do a small test upon arrival. Carry a small amount of RMB cash for night market stalls and remote gas stations. Credit cards can be used in city hotels and large shopping malls, while scenic spots and towns generally only accept QR code payments or cash.
Internet and Apps
International roaming works immediately, and local short-term SIM cards can be purchased with real-name registration using your passport; make sure to pre-install maps such as Gaode/Baidu (English interface available), ride-hailing Didi, translation apps, and train ticket 12306 apps. There is no time difference issue with Xinjiang and mainland China (officially using Beijing time, daily schedule roughly two hours later).
Personal Medications and Clothing
Dry climate + large temperature swings: bring your own moisturizer and lip balm, gastrointestinal medicine, and cold medicine; wear summer/autumn outdoor jackets, layered down in winter; sunscreen is needed year-round. Bring an adequate supply of your regular prescription medications and keep them in their original packaging.