China accommodation options are endless: hostel beds 30-80 yuan a night, homestays 150-400, budget chain hotels 100-250 - something for every budget.
Hostels: international YHA hostels and local ones cluster in tourist cities with great social vibes; filter beds on Ctrip or Meituan. Bring an ID card or passport to check in.
Homestays: Beijing courtyard houses, Shanghai lane houses, Yunnan lakeside rooms and riverfront houses in water towns are all special. Book via Tujia or Airbnb China; read reviews and cancellation policies.
Hotels: Ctrip, Meituan and Feizhu are mainstream and take international cards; chains like Hanting, Home Inn and Atour are reliable, and app member prices beat the front desk.
Details: breakfast is rarely included; hostels and homestays may lack toiletries; confirm hot water and Wi-Fi; prices double in peak season (summer, Spring Festival, National Day) - book early.
Reminder: staying in a homestay or with friends means accommodation registration within 24 hours (see the "first 24 hours" guide); hotels do it for you.
