How to Book a Hotel Room in China

A complete guide to booking hotels in China, from popular platforms to payment tips and cancellation policies.

Popular Hotel Booking Platforms for Foreign Tourists

When booking hotels in China, foreign tourists have several reliable platforms to choose from. These websites offer a wide variety of hotels and allow you to compare prices, read reviews, and check availability. Below are some of the most popular and widely used hotel booking platforms for international visitors.

Trip.com
Trip.com (formerly Ctrip) is a Chinese travel agency that caters heavily to international tourists. It’s especially popular among travelers coming to China from abroad. The platform offers hotel booking services in English and often has good deals, particularly for business and mid-range hotels.
Website: www.trip.com
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Booking.com
Booking.com is one of the most well-known hotel booking websites worldwide and is widely used in China. It supports multiple languages, including English, and features an extensive list of hotels across the country. It is known for its user-friendly interface and transparent pricing.
Website: www.booking.com
Agoda
Agoda is another highly popular platform for booking hotels in China, especially in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. It often offers competitive prices and special deals for international travelers. Agoda is particularly beneficial for booking hotels in smaller cities and regions that may not be as well-known to foreign tourists.
Website: www.agoda.com
Expedia
Expedia is another global platform where you can book hotels in China. While it may not be as widely used as Booking.com or Agoda in China, it still offers competitive pricing and a wide selection of hotels, with the added convenience of booking flights and car rentals as well.
Website: www.expedia.com

These platforms are not only convenient, but they also offer English-language support, which is essential for foreign tourists. However, always compare prices across multiple platforms to ensure you get the best deal.

General Steps for Booking Hotels in China

Once you’ve chosen your booking platform, here’s what you’ll need to do to complete your reservation.

Choosing a Hotel
Your first step is to decide on the type of hotel that suits your needs. When selecting a hotel, consider your budget, preferred location, and any special amenities you may need. If you’re visiting for tourism, staying in a central area with easy access to public transportation and famous landmarks is a good choice. For business trips, opt for hotels near business districts or your meeting locations.

Booking in Advance
It’s highly recommended to book your hotel 7 to 15 days in advance to secure availability, especially during China’s peak tourist seasons, from April to October. Early booking allows you to choose from a wider selection of hotels, as some may be fully booked if you wait until the last minute.
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Required Information
When booking a hotel in China, you will need to provide the following details:

Your full name
Passport number
Contact information
Check-in and check-out dates
Special requests (e.g., non-smoking room, bed type)

Hotel Deposit
Some hotels may ask for a deposit when booking. If you reserve through an online platform, the payment method will usually be linked to your card, and the deposit is often automatically deducted. Upon check-in, a refundable deposit of 100-300 RMB is common, covering any incidental charges during your stay. If there are no extra charges, the deposit is returned when you check out.

Confirmation
After completing the reservation, you should receive a confirmation email or message. Keep this confirmation with you when you check into the hotel, as it will be required at the front desk.

How to Modify or Cancel Your Hotel Reservation

Travel plans can change, and sometimes you might need to adjust or cancel your hotel booking. Here’s how you can manage changes or cancellations:

Modifying a Reservation
If you need to change the dates or other details of your reservation, contact the booking platform or the hotel directly. Modifications are not always guaranteed, as they depend on availability and hotel policies. If the change results in a price difference, you will either have to pay the additional cost or receive a refund if the new rate is lower.
Cancellation Policies
Many hotels in China allow free cancellation up to 10 days before your planned check-in date. However, cancellation policies vary from hotel to hotel.
- Free cancellation is usually available if you cancel at least 10 days before check-in.
- If you cancel between 10 days and the day of check-in but before 18:00, a small fee (usually around 10% of the total price) may apply.
- If you cancel after 18:00 on the check-in day, you may lose your entire deposit, or the hotel may charge a cancellation fee.

Check the specific cancellation policy of the hotel during the booking process to avoid unexpected fees.

Important Tips to Keep in Mind

Language Barrier
While many hotels in major cities have English-speaking staff, it’s still advisable to use a translation app or carry a phrasebook if you’re staying in smaller cities. Communication could be difficult if the staff does not speak English fluently.
Hotel Reviews
Always read hotel reviews on the booking platform or other travel forums. Previous guests’ experiences can give you insights into the hotel’s service quality, cleanliness, and location.
Location and Transportation
When selecting a hotel, consider the ease of access to transportation options such as subway stations, bus stops, and airports. This will save you time and money during your trip.
Special Deals and Discounts
Some booking platforms offer special promotions, discounts, or loyalty programs for members. Be sure to check for any ongoing deals before confirming your booking to save on costs.
Hotel Stars and Facilities
Chinese hotels are typically rated with stars, from 1-star to 5-star. Be sure to check the hotel’s star rating and the facilities available to ensure it meets your expectations. Hotels with higher ratings generally offer better services and amenities.

Conclusion

Booking a hotel in China doesn’t have to be stressful if you know which platforms to use, the correct steps to follow, and what to expect during the process. By booking in advance, providing the necessary information, and understanding the cancellation policies, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay during your travels in China.
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