Start here: Read the China Travel Essentials guide first for internet, payment, maps, apps, transport, reservations, and foreign-guest hotel check-in.
Shanghai works well as a 3–5 day first city because its main sights are connected by metro and riverfront walks. The complete Shanghai guide groups attractions by district, ticket rules, weather, food, and traveller profile, then provides several same-day route combinations.
For step-by-step help with Meituan hotels, takeaway, car rental, DiDi, Amap, and QR payments, read the China Travel Apps guide before arrival.