We're arranging accommodation for our guests in the West Lake area of Hangzhou for October 26-28. You don't need to book your own hotel. We'll take care of it and send details closer to the date.

Many guests are spending the weekend before in Shanghai. We'll recommend hotels to stay at in the coming weeks for those interested.

International flights to Shanghai (PVG or SHA). If you're coming from Iceland, we recommend flying through Germany or Finland.

There will be a shuttle from Shanghai to Hangzhou on the 26th. It is approximately a 90-minute drive.

ICELAND & CANADA passports. If you have an Icelandic or Canadian passport, you do NOT need a visa. You can enter mainland China visa-free for up to 30 days through Dec 31, 2026. Just make sure the passport is valid for 6+ months

US passports. If you have a US passport you have 2 options:

• Tourist (L) visa — apply in advance at a Chinese consulate; plan a few weeks ahead.

• 240-hour visa-free transit — only if you continue onward to a third country/region (e.g. SF → Shanghai → Tokyo or Hong Kong), not a round trip.

Weather:

Daytime around 18–22°C (mid-60s°F)

Evenings cooler 10–13°C (low 50s°F)

Water:

It is not recommended to drink the tap water. Drink bottled, filtered, or boiled water.

Vaccinations:

Vaccinations are not legally required.

Safety:

Both Shanghai and Hangzhou are incredibly safe. Many streets are well-lit with CCTV. Just be aware of pickpocketing in high tourist areas.

Plug Types:

Type A & Type I. Common power voltage is 220V/50Hz.

Currency:

Chinese Yuan.

100 CNY ≈ 1850 ISK, $15 USD, $20 CAD

Apps to download beforehand:

Payments: WeChat 

Car rides: Didi

VPN: Many Western apps (Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Uber) are blocked. Get a VPN before you arrive (they can't be downloaded once you're there)