After landing, follow the "Arrivals / 入境" signs. First go to the immigration counter, presenting your passport and completed arrival card (many ports are digital now, no paper card needed). The officer may ask: what is your purpose? Where will you stay? Answer honestly.
After immigration, collect your luggage, then take the "red channel" (goods to declare) or "green channel" (nothing to declare). When unsure, choose red — declaring at most costs some tax, while failing to declare can mean a fine if caught.
After leaving the airport, consider getting a Chinese SIM or roaming. Remember: within 24 hours of checking in you must complete accommodation registration (hotels do it for you; for apartments or homestays, you report it yourself).
