👓️How to Get Eyeglasses in China: A Step-by-Step Guide for Foreigners

Troy Chen
3 days ago
2 min read

Whether you need prescription glasses or stylish frames, China offers two main options: hospital eye clinics and optical chain stores. Here’s how they compare:

Option 1: Hospital Eye Clinics

Best for accurate prescriptions and complex eye conditions

Process, Time, and Cost

Step	Description	Time Required	Cost (USD)
1. Registration	Visit ophthalmology department (眼科) with passport. Queue via WeChat/on-site.	15–30 mins	$3–7
2. Eye Exam	Includes: visual acuity, refraction (验光), intraocular pressure, fundus exam.	30–60 mins	$15–30
3. Prescription	Printed prescription with Sphere/Cylinder/Axis, PD, and doctor’s stamp.	5 mins	Included
4. Order Glasses	Specif frames/lenses available.	30–60 mins	$50–1000
TOTAL		2–3 hours	$66–1200

Key Features:

Prescriptions valid nationwide.
Insurance-friendly (keep red-stamped receipts).
Ideal for astigmatism >200 degrees or eye diseases.

Option 2: Optical Chain Stores

Best for fashion frames and quick service

Process, Time, and Cost

Step	Description	Time Required	Cost (USD)
1. In-Store Exam	Basic refraction test (may lack precision for complex prescriptions).	15–20 mins	Free
2. Frame Selection	Choose trendy brands (Ray-Ban, local designs).	30–60 mins	$20–300
3. Lens Options	Upsell on coatings (anti-blue light, anti-fog) and refractive index (1.56–1.74).	10 mins	$30–400
4. Production	Same-day service for standard prescriptions.	1–2 hours	Included
TOTAL		1.5–3 hours	$50–700+

Popular Chains:

Baodao Glasses (宝岛眼镜): Mid-range, negotiable discounts.
JINS: Japanese brand, fixed pricing.
MuJiuShi: Fashion-forward, frequent promotions.

Comparison Table: Hospital vs. Optical Stores

Factor	Hospital	Optical Chain
Prescription Accuracy	Gold standard (full PD measurement).	May skip parts of PD measurement.
Frame Quality	Basic functional designs.	Trendy/styles updated weekly.
Insurance Coverage	✔️ Usually accepted.	❌ Rarely accepted.
English Support	Limited (bring a translator).	Basic English common in urban stores.
Follow-up Service	Free adjustments within 7 days.	Free cleaning/repairs

Pro Tips

Vocabulary Essentials:
- 验光单 (yànguāng dān): Prescription
- 瞳距 (tóngjù): Pupillary Distance
- 折射率 (zhéshè lǜ): Refractive index
Cost-Saving Strategies:
- At chains, ask for 30% off non-branded frames.
- Bundle lens coatings (e.g., anti-reflective + anti-scratch).
Emergency Backup:
- Use Meituan for 2-hour delivery of cheap temporary glasses (~$25).