Electricity and sockets
You will need an adapter for Types A and I. Plugs from the UK do not fit the sockets in China.
Sockets at the destination
The grid in China works at 230 V and 50 Hz; the recorded sockets are Types A and I. A converter can stay at home; China supplies 230 V.
Travelling further to Kyrgyzstan, Indonesia and Hong Kong means a different adapter. Across Asia this setup is fairly rare: 1 of 50 countries.
Protective earth
Mixed supply: Type A without earth, Type I with earth. Which one is in your room only shows on arrival.
Quick check by home country
| From the UK | adapter for Types A and I | Check route → |
|---|---|---|
| From the US | Type A fits, Type B needs an adapter | Check route → |
Voltage and frequency in China match UK appliances, so only the plug shape matters. Check your own device →
Common questions
Yes, you need an adapter for Types A and I.
China uses Types A and I at 230 V and 50 Hz.
No. At 230 V the supply matches UK and European appliances.
If a socket gets hot, crackles or smells burnt, unplug the device straight away.
Data for China from IEC World Plugs and IEC TR 60083. Sources and method →