China has become one of the world's most cashless societies, with mobile payments dominating daily transactions. Understanding how to use these apps is essential for a smooth visit.

Last updated: November 2025

Mobile Payment Apps

Alipay (支付宝)

Alipay is the most foreigner-friendly mobile payment option in China. It offers a built-in English interface (easily switchable) and supports international credit cards.

How to Set Up Alipay:

  1. Download the app: Available on international app stores (iOS App Store, Google Play)
  2. Register an account: Use your international phone number
  3. Verify identity: Choose from passport upload, facial recognition, or other supported verification methods (varies by region)
  4. Add payment method: Link your Visa, Mastercard, or other international credit/debit card
  5. Start paying: Scan QR codes at merchants or show your payment code

WeChat Pay (微信支付)

WeChat Pay is integrated into the WeChat messaging app. It's widely used across China and now offers improved support for foreign visitors.

Pros

Widely accepted, integrated with social features, useful for splitting bills with friends, supports international credit cards

Cons

Some functions require Chinese language navigation, occasional transaction limits for foreign card links, partial merchant restrictions

Important Tips:

  • Download and set up these apps before arriving in China – some functions may require in-China network activation
  • Transaction limits may apply to foreign card links (varies by user, typically ¥1,000-10,000 per transaction)
  • Ensure your phone has enough battery - mobile payments require your phone!
  • Some small merchants may only accept Chinese bank-linked accounts

International Credit & Debit Cards

While mobile payments dominate, international cards are still accepted in many places, especially tourist areas.

Card Acceptance

  • UnionPay: Most widely accepted - many international banks issue UnionPay cards
  • Visa & Mastercard: Accepted at hotels, major retailers, and tourist attractions
  • American Express: Acceptance has expanded beyond high-end establishments to some malls and restaurants
  • Discover/JCB: Rarely accepted outside major hotels

Where Cards Work Best

Commonly Accepted

International hotels, airports, major shopping malls, high-end restaurants, tourist attractions

Rarely Accepted

Local restaurants, street vendors, small shops, most public transportation (some subway/bus systems support UnionPay/Visa/Mastercard direct payment), markets

Before You Travel:

  • Notify your bank about your China travel dates to avoid card blocks
  • Bring at least 2 different cards from different networks
  • Know your PIN - chip-and-PIN is standard in China
  • Check your card's foreign transaction fees

Cash (Chinese Yuan/RMB)

Despite the prevalence of digital payments, cash remains essential, especially in smaller cities and rural areas.

Getting Cash in China

ATMs

Look for ATMs with Visa/Mastercard/Plus logos. Major banks: Bank of China, ICBC, China Construction Bank

Currency Exchange

Available at airports, banks, and hotels. Banks offer better rates than hotels.

Airport Exchange

Convenient but often higher fees. Exchange small amounts for immediate needs.

Requirements

Passport required for all currency exchanges and large ATM withdrawals.

Cash Tips

  • Denominations: Common bills are ¥100, ¥50, ¥20, ¥10, ¥5, and ¥1 (also coins)
  • Small bills: Keep smaller denominations (¥10, ¥20) for taxis, street food, and small purchases
  • Counterfeit awareness: Check security features on ¥100 and ¥50 bills
  • ATM fees: Typically ¥10-20 per withdrawal, varying by bank, plus your bank's fees

Exchange Rate Reference:

As of 2024, approximate rates: $1 USD ≈ ¥7.2 | €1 EUR ≈ ¥7.8 | £1 GBP ≈ ¥9.1

Note: Rates fluctuate daily. Check current rates before exchanging.

Payment Strategy for Visitors

The best approach is to use multiple payment methods:

Recommended Payment Mix:

  • Primary: Alipay with linked international card (for most daily purchases)
  • Backup 1: Cash in small denominations (¥500-1000 on hand)
  • Backup 2: International credit card (for hotels, emergencies)
  • Optional: WeChat Pay (if successfully set up)

Common Payment Scenarios

Restaurants

Mobile payment preferred, cash accepted, cards at upscale venues

Shopping Malls

All payment methods accepted

Street Food

Mobile payment or cash only

Taxis

Mobile payment preferred, cash accepted (have small bills)

Hotels

International cards accepted, mobile payment varies

Tourist Attractions

All methods usually accepted

Final Tips:

  • Always have a backup payment method available
  • Keep some cash for emergencies (¥200-500)
  • Mobile payments require internet connection
  • QR code payments are everywhere - learn how they work
  • Tipping is not customary in China