A few years ago, China was a place digital nomads usually avoided, and they had good reasons for it. But today, China has become a very popular destination for any remote worker. Advantages like tech-driven cities (e.g., Shenzhen, Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Chengdu), probably one of the richest cultures, and a growing coworking scene are all drawing independent professionals around the world.
But, like anywhere else, it’s not all shine and glitter. Living and working in China comes with some challenges, and if you don’t know what to expect, it is most likely that you are going to be caught off guard.
The language barrier (honestly, how many people outside China speak their language, except if it was their chosen field of study in the university), very strict and uncommon internet regulations, and fast-paced lifestyle can be really overwhelming combined all together, if you come unprepared. It sounds like there’s a lot to take in, but it’s not. Preparation is key.
In this article, we’re focusing on 7 lessons that are going to help you adapt no matter where you want to live as a digital nomad in China.
1. Super‑Apps
Chinese existence revolves around ‘super‑apps’ WeChat and Alipay. These are not just messaging or payments apps; they are essentials for getting taxis, settling bills, and even ordering food or splitting dinner bills.
If you want to stay ahead, here’s what to do:
- Download and install WeChat and Alipay before your arrival.
- Log in using a bank card (some international cards are now supported).
- Learn how to scan and pay with QR codes. They’re literally everywhere.
Adapting to this environment at an early stage spares you the embarrassment of being left behind and struggling over simple daily transactions.
2. Secure Internet + VPN
China’s ‘Great Firewall’ blocks most Western websites and apps, such as Google, Facebook, and most work tools you’re probably using.
So, in order to work normally, you need to:
- Register for a reputable paid VPN before arriving in the country.
- Have a backup VPN on hand in case one fails.
- Test out the coworking space and apartment connections to check for stability.
It’s pretty much a must if your work includes video calls or cloud-based apps, or even simple things such as Google Drive/Docs/Sheets, etc. If that’s the case, without a VPN, you’ll have trouble getting any work done.
3. Friends and Groups
The digital nomad lifestyle in China can be isolating, particularly because it’s a nation where not as many people speak English.
Having a support group is important:
- Large cities like Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Beijing have top-notch coworking spaces.
- Most cafes welcome laptop workers and longer stays without having to reorder.
- WeChat nomad/expat communities easily connect you to like-minded people.
The groups are a hidden blessing for socialising, networking, and even exchanging tips on visas or apartments. But if you just have general questions, this is probably the best way to get a detailed answer s to your FAQs.
4. Blend in
Choose local etiquette to facilitate day-to-day interactions.
Here are three very useful tips that will go a long way:
- Learn some Mandarin basics – greetings and numbers come in handy.
- Respect personal space and queue properly in public places.
- Understand indirect communication – locals may avoid saying “no” outright.
A little bit of connecting with the culture of the place you’re currently in helps avoid misunderstandings and builds better relationships. Plus, for locals to see a foreigner immersed into their culture is always a welcome experience.
5. Work-life Balance
The urban pace in China can be intense, especially if you come from a smaller place with a slower pace. Coworking (like cafe’s) spaces are buzzing all day, which can lead to burnout if you aren’t careful. Plan breaks and downtime to keep your energy up.
Many nomads take weekend getaways to local mountains or rural areas. Others take longer getaways overseas to unwind between tasks.
And this isn’t only specific to China.
For example, digital nomads working in a cozy village/town near the Alps (Italy, Switzerland, France, or Austria) will also go and visit the beautiful and captivating nature when they aren’t working (or when you are; just be sure you get enough reception where you work, especially if your work heavily relies on a stable internet connection).
U.S.-based nomads release work stress at laid-back locations such as a Pier Park vacation rental in Panama City Beach, which gives that work on a beach with an ice-cold cocktail at hands reach.
The world is full of great places to work – besides your home or your office. And this is especially true if you work remotely. All you really need today is an internet connection and a laptop.
And China? China is a HUGE country (it’s almost as big as the U.S.) and it covers several geological landscapes (mountains, highlands, forests, grasslands, rivers, lakes, coastal areas, tropical areas, even deserts) which gives you more things to discover than what you’re realistically covering in a lifetime. Well, almost.
China provides you with a lot of much-needed change in scenery that can be pure magic for work (or off-work). Just get a nice rental as basecamp where you can recoup, and let the world be your office.
6. Manage Money
Finance management in China requires planning. While most of the nomads bank overseas, having an understanding of local systems will come in handy if you’re planning to stay long-term.
- Check currency exchange rates before making large transactions.
- Avoid using multiple banking apps without checking their fees.
- If local home loans or business loans are an option, check terms and repayment schedules closely.
When you live abroad, it’s super important to manage your money well. You don’t want to be stuck without a roof over your head or without food, or without a way to at least buy a one way ticket home if things go south – especially in a country where systems are very different from ones that you are used to.
7. Explore!
As we’ve already mentioned, living in China as a digital nomad isn’t just about work.
This rule applies to any country, but when you are living in one with such a rich culture, it’d be a waste of time not to explore it. Take time to enjoy and visit places from the Terracotta Army in Xi’an to bamboo rafting in Yangshuo, Macau, Hong Kong, Beijing, there’s really too many to count; and make them a weekend adventure.
Even tier‑2 cities like Chengdu or Hangzhou offer a more relaxed pace that’s perfect for calming and making it less stressful between deadlines.
Conclusion
China offers a unique experience for digital nomads who are ready to go beyond their comfort zone.
With learning all you need to know about local tech, a good VPN, community, and work-life balance, you can build a sustainable and satisfying life in one of the world’s most fascinating countries.
