Payment Landscape in China
China is the country with the highest mobile payment penetration in the world. In major cities, **over 95%** of daily purchases can be completed with a phone. From upscale restaurants to street stalls, from the subway and buses to taxis, mobile payment is everywhere.
Main Payment Methods
1. WeChat Pay
WeChat Pay is one of the most popular payment methods in China, built on the super app WeChat.
Advantages:
- Widest coverage
- Can send red packets and transfer money
- Integrated with WeChat's social features
How foreign tourists can use it:
- Download the WeChat app
- Register with an overseas phone number
- Link an overseas credit card (Visa/Mastercard)
- Activate WeChat Pay
2. Alipay
Alipay is a payment platform under Alibaba with powerful features.
Advantages:
- Rich payment scenarios
- Has a dedicated international version (Alipay+)
- Can buy attraction tickets, train tickets, and more
How foreign tourists can use it:
- Download the international version of Alipay
- Register with an overseas phone number
- Link an overseas credit card
- Or use the Tour Pass feature to top up
3. Bank Cards
Although mobile payment is widespread, bank cards are still widely accepted.
VISA/Mastercard:
- Accepted at large shopping malls, hotels, and restaurants
- Some ATMs allow cash withdrawals (note the fees)
- Small merchants may not accept them
UnionPay cards:
- If you have a UnionPay card, it is more convenient to use
- Supported by almost all POS machines
- Lower ATM withdrawal fees
4. Cash
Although mobile payment is widespread, cash is still necessary.
Recommended situations to carry it:
- Remote areas or small towns
- Some old-style shops
- Emergency backup
Notes:
- Check the authenticity of RMB notes
- Large amounts need to be exchanged at a bank
- Denominations of 100 yuan and below are more practical
Payment Guide for Foreign Tourists
Option 1: Link an Overseas Credit Card
This is the most recommended method:
- WeChat Pay: Settings → Wallet → Bank Cards → Add an overseas card
- Alipay: Me → Bank Cards → Add an overseas card
Supported card types:
- Visa
- Mastercard
- JCB
- Diners Club
- Discover
Option 2: Alipay Tour Pass
Designed specifically for short-term tourists:
- Open the international version of Alipay
- Select "Tour Pass"
- Top up in RMB (minimum 100 yuan)
- Valid for 90 days
- The balance can be refunded to the original card
Option 3: Digital RMB
Some cities already support the digital RMB (e-CNY):
- No Chinese bank account required
- Activate it in the designated app
- Coverage continues to expand
Practical Tips
Scan-to-Pay
There are two ways to scan and pay in China:
- The merchant scans you: show your payment code for the merchant to scan
- You scan the merchant: scan the merchant's QR code and enter the amount
Small-Amount Password-Free Payment
You can enable password-free payment for small amounts (usually under 1,000 yuan) to speed up payment.
Viewing Bills
You can view all transaction records through WeChat/Alipay, making reconciliation easy.
Notes
Important: When traveling in China, it is recommended to prepare both mobile payment and a small amount of cash
Important: When traveling in China, it is recommended to prepare both mobile payment and a small amount of cash
- Network required: Mobile payment requires a network connection, so it is recommended to buy a Chinese SIM card or activate international roaming
- Battery management: If your phone is out of power, you cannot pay, so it is recommended to carry a power bank
- Exchange rate: Payments with overseas cards are converted at the real-time exchange rate, so pay attention to exchange rate fluctuations
- Fees: Some credit cards may charge overseas transaction fees
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use mobile payment without a Chinese bank card?
Yes! WeChat Pay and Alipay both support linking overseas credit cards or using Tour Pass top-ups.
Q: Where might only cash be accepted?
- Some old-style taxis
- Small shops in rural areas
- Individual vendors at certain scenic spots
- Old vending machines
Q: What should I do if a payment fails?
- Check the network connection
- Confirm the card balance/credit limit
- Try another payment method
- Contact the card-issuing bank to confirm there are no overseas transaction restrictions
Prepare your payment methods well to make your trip to China smoother!
Related Destinations
Beijing
An ancient capital of a thousand years, the heart of modernity
Shanghai
The Oriental Pearl, the charm of the magic city
Xi'an
An ancient capital of thirteen dynasties, the starting point of the Silk Road
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