8th · Ningbo 2026
Practical Information
Practical notes for participants arriving in Ningbo, and especially for those visiting China for the first time.
Before you come
Visa
Participants from outside China who need an invitation letter should tick the relevant box when registering; the secretariat will then be in touch by e-mail. Please allow ample time for the application.
Paying for things in China
Everyday payments in China run almost entirely through mobile apps. International visitors can link a Visa or Mastercard inside Alipay or WeChat and then pay by QR code at nearly any merchant; setting this up and testing it before you travel is strongly recommended. Cash can be exchanged at the airport and major bank branches, and most taxis and small shops still accept it.
Internet
Wireless internet is available at the venue. Foreign mobile numbers roaming in mainland China generally retain access to their home network services.
Weather
Ningbo in November averages roughly 12–20°C and sees frequent rain. Bring a jacket and an umbrella.
Electricity
Mainland China uses 220V / 50Hz with type A, C and I sockets. Please bring an adaptor.
Emergency numbers
Police 110 Ambulance 120 Fire 119
A tip worth acting on before you fly: link your international card inside Alipay or WeChat and make one test payment while still at home. Setting this up after arrival often requires a Chinese mobile number, which is hard to obtain on day one.