When traveling in China, choosing appropriate accommodation and smoothly completing the booking and check-in process is essential for an enjoyable journey. This guide provides detailed information on various hotel booking channels in China, price differences, check-in procedures, precautions, and solutions to common issues, helping you avoid unnecessary麻烦 and enjoy a comfortable stay.
Booking Tip: Booking 1-2 weeks in advance can get you better prices, especially during peak tourist seasons (May Day, National Day, Spring Festival) when booking 1 month in advance is recommended. Prices for the same hotel may vary significantly across different platforms, so it's advisable to compare prices across multiple platforms before booking.
I. Hotel Types & Selection
China offers a rich variety of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury five-star hotels, from chain brands to characteristic homestays, meeting different budgets and needs:
Main Hotel Types
- Budget Hotels: Affordable (200-400 CNY/night), clean and tidy
- Mid-range Hotels: Well-equipped (400-800 CNY/night), good service
- Luxury Hotels: Luxurious and comfortable (800-2000+ CNY/night)
- Homestays/Guesthouses: Unique experiences, suitable for in-depth travel
- Apart-hotels: Suitable for family travel, with kitchen facilities
Selection Considerations
- Location: Close to attractions or transportation hubs saves time
- Facilities: Free WiFi, breakfast, parking, etc., choose according to needs
- Reviews: Pay attention to recent reviews, especially feedback from foreign tourists
- Policies: Cancellation policy, check-in/check-out times, extra bed services
- Special Needs: Accessibility facilities, pet-friendly, etc.
| Hotel Type | Price Range (CNY/night) | Suitable For | Representative Brands |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Hotels | 150-400 CNY | Budget-conscious tourists | Home Inn, 7 Days, Hanting |
| Mid-range Hotels | 400-800 CNY | Most tourists | Vienna, Ji Hotel, Orange Hotel |
| Luxury Hotels | 800-2000+ CNY | Tourists seeking comfort | Marriott, Hilton, InterContinental |
| Characteristics Homestays | 300-1500+ CNY | Tourists experiencing local culture | Airbnb, Tujia, Xiaozhu |
II. Booking Channels & Methods
There are various hotel booking channels in China, each with its advantages and considerations. Choosing the right booking method can lead to better prices and services:
Online Booking Platforms
- Domestic Platforms: Ctrip, Meituan, Fliggy
- International Platforms: Booking.com, Agoda
- Advantages: Wide selection, easy price comparison
- Note: Pay attention to cancellation policies and hidden fees
- Payment: Supports multiple payment methods
Hotel Website/Phone
- Book directly through the hotel's official website
- Call the hotel front desk to book (requires Chinese ability)
- Advantages: May have member exclusive discounts
- Advantages: Can communicate special needs directly
- Note: Prices may not be as competitive as platforms
Travel Agency/Agent
- Book accommodation-included packages through travel agencies
- Suitable for group travel or complex itineraries
- Advantages: One-stop service, convenient
- Disadvantages: Prices may be higher
- Note: Clarify included service content
Booking Tips: Registering as a member can enjoy more discounts and benefits; use the platform's "price protection" feature to avoid price drops after booking; pay attention to limited-time promotions on platforms; choose free cancellation bookings for increased itinerary flexibility.
III. Check-in Process & Procedures
China's hotel check-in process is standardized but has specific requirements. Understanding these processes can help you check in smoothly:
Required Documents & Materials
Chinese law requires all hotel guests to present valid identification documents, which is a very strict requirement:
Standard Check-in Process
Following standard procedures can speed up check-in and reduce unnecessary hassle:
Important Regulation: China implements a strict accommodation registration system. All occupants (including children) must present valid identification documents. It is not permitted for one person to register for multiple guests. If you do not have your documents with you, the hotel may require you to obtain a temporary ID from a nearby police station.
IV. Deposit & Payment Methods
Understanding a hotel's payment methods and deposit policy can prevent inconvenience during check-in:
Deposit Policy
- Most hotels charge a deposit, typically 1-2 times the room rate
- The deposit is used to cover possible additional charges (minibar, paid services, etc.)
- The deposit will be fully refunded upon checkout if there are no additional charges
- Some high-end hotels or homestays may not charge a deposit
- Even if you book through a third-party platform and pay in full, you may still need to pay a deposit
Payment Methods
- Mobile Payment: WeChat Pay and Alipay are the most commonly used methods, accepted by almost all hotels
- Credit Card: International credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in mid-to-high-end hotels
- Cash: All hotels accept cash payment, but it's inconvenient to carry
- Debit Card: Chinese domestic bank cards can be used for payment, international debit card support is limited
- Note: Deposits usually need to be paid with credit card authorization or cash
Precautions: Don't leave valuables in the room. Confirm prices before using the hotel minibar or paid services. Some hotels may charge fees for early check-out, please check relevant policies when booking.
V. Hotel Facilities & Services
Chinese hotels offer various facilities and services. Understanding this information can help you make better use of hotel resources:
Common Free Facilities
- High-speed WiFi (provided by most hotels, some require password from reception)
- Breakfast (check if included when booking, usually served 7:00-10:00)
- Parking (some city center hotels may charge)
- Fitness center (commonly provided in mid-to-high-end hotels)
- Swimming pool (provided by some mid-to-high-end hotels)
- Toiletries, towels, slippers (provided by most hotels)
- Drinking water, electric kettle, hair dryer
Common Paid Services
- Minibar (snacks, beverages, etc., usually at higher prices)
- Laundry service (some provide self-service laundry rooms)
- Airport/train station transfer service
- Meeting rooms or banquet halls (require advance reservation)
- SPA and massage services
- Extra bed service (allowed in some hotels, need to inquire in advance)
- Long-distance calls (recommend using mobile phones instead)
Useful Tips: Upon check-in, you can ask the front desk for recommended restaurants or attractions nearby; if you need late check-out, negotiate with the front desk in advance, some hotels may allow free late check-out until 14:00-16:00 during non-peak hours; avoid sensitive operations when using hotel WiFi; if you're not satisfied with the room, politely request a change.
VI. Check-out Process & Notes
Smooth check-out is the final step in an enjoyable stay. Understanding the relevant processes and notes is important:
Standard Check-out Process
- Organize personal belongings, check for any items left behind (especially small items like chargers, documents, etc.)
- Return room card/key to the front desk (some hotels have self-service check-out boxes)
- Front desk verifies consumption (minibar, paid services, etc.)
- Settle additional charges (if any)
- Deposit refund (usually returned via the original payment method, credit card authorizations take 1-7 business days to release)
- Request invoice (if needed for reimbursement)
Check-out Notes
- Pay attention to the hotel's check-out time (usually before 12:00 noon)
- If you need late check-out, communicate with the front desk in advance, additional fees may apply
- Check if any items are left in wardrobes, bathrooms, or drawers
- If hotel items are damaged, compensation is required according to regulations
- If you need an invoice, inform the front desk in advance and provide accurate information
- Large luggage can be stored at the hotel front desk after check-out (usually free)
VII. Common Issues & Solutions
You may encounter some issues during your stay. Understanding solutions can help you respond quickly:
| Common Issues | Solutions |
|---|---|
| No room available after booking | Request hotel to upgrade room type or arrange another hotel of the same level, and bear the price difference |
| Room facilities malfunction | Immediately contact the front desk, request repair or room change |
| Poor service attitude | Can complain to hotel manager or leave a truthful review on the booking platform |
| Does not match booking description | Take photos as evidence, contact booking platform customer service for assistance |
| Delayed deposit refund at check-out | Keep deposit receipt, if it hasn't been returned for a long time, contact the hotel's financial department |
Conclusion
Choosing appropriate accommodation and smoothly completing the booking and check-in process is an important foundation for an enjoyable journey. China's hotel industry is mature, offering a diverse range of choices from budget to luxury, capable of meeting the needs of different tourists. As long as you prepare in advance and understand relevant policies and procedures, you can enjoy a comfortable and convenient accommodation experience. We hope this guide helps make your travels in China more relaxed and enjoyable!
