Payment Methods in China

Navigate China's digital payment landscape with confidence

Payment Landscape Overview

China has become largely cashless, with mobile payments dominating daily transactions. While this offers convenience, it can be challenging for international visitors. Here's everything you need to know to pay like a local.

Quick Facts

  • • Over 80% of transactions in major cities are cashless
  • • QR code payments are accepted almost everywhere
  • • International cards have limited acceptance
  • • Mobile payment apps now support foreign cards
  • • Cash is still accepted but less convenient
Mobile Payment Platforms
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WeChat Pay

Integrated with WeChat messaging app, used by over 1 billion people

  • • Built into WeChat messaging app
  • • Supports international cards (Visa, Mastercard)
  • • Widely accepted in restaurants, shops, taxis
  • • Can send money to friends
  • • Mini-programs for various services
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Alipay

Standalone payment app by Alibaba, popular for online and offline payments

  • • Dedicated payment and lifestyle app
  • • International version available
  • • Extensive merchant network
  • • Integrated with Taobao/Tmall shopping
  • • Travel and utility services

Setting Up Mobile Payments for Tourists

WeChat Pay Setup

  1. Download WeChat app and create account
  2. Go to "Me" → "Services" → "Wallet"
  3. Add international card (Visa/Mastercard)
  4. Verify with SMS and card details
  5. Start using QR code payments

Alipay Setup

  1. Download Alipay app (international version)
  2. Register with phone number
  3. Add international payment method
  4. Complete identity verification
  5. Enable "Tour Pass" for tourists
International Credit & Debit Cards

While international cards are accepted at many establishments, coverage is limited compared to mobile payments. It's best to have multiple payment options.

Where Cards Are Accepted

  • • International hotels and luxury accommodations
  • • Upscale restaurants and fine dining
  • • Major tourist attractions and museums
  • • International brand stores and malls
  • • Airports and some train stations
  • • Car rental agencies

Limited Acceptance

  • • Local restaurants and street food
  • • Small shops and convenience stores
  • • Taxis and ride-sharing
  • • Public transportation
  • • Markets and local vendors
  • • Budget accommodations

Card Usage Tips

  • • Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid blocks
  • • Bring multiple cards from different networks
  • • Visa and Mastercard have better acceptance than Amex
  • • Some merchants may add surcharges for card payments
  • • Keep receipts for expense tracking and disputes
Cash (Chinese Yuan/RMB)

While China is increasingly cashless, having some cash is still important, especially for emergencies, tips, and situations where digital payments aren't available.

Getting Cash

  • • ATMs are widely available in cities
  • • Bank of China, ICBC, and CCB accept foreign cards
  • • Airport and hotel ATMs often have English options
  • • Exchange money at banks or authorized dealers
  • • Avoid street money changers
  • • Keep receipts for currency exchange

Cash Usage Tips

  • • Carry small denominations (¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥20)
  • • Useful for street food and local markets
  • • Required for some public restrooms
  • • Tipping is not customary but appreciated
  • • Keep cash secure in money belt or hidden pocket
  • • Check bills for authenticity at exchange

Chinese Currency Denominations

Bills (纸币)

  • ¥100 (red)
  • ¥50 (green)
  • ¥20 (brown)
  • ¥10 (blue)
  • ¥5 (purple)
  • ¥1 (green)

Coins (硬币)

  • ¥1 (silver)
  • ¥0.5 (gold)
  • ¥0.1 (silver)
How to Use QR Code Payments

QR code payments are the most common payment method in China. Understanding how they work will make your trip much smoother.

Scan to Pay (扫码付款)

  1. Open WeChat Pay or Alipay
  2. Tap "Scan" or camera icon
  3. Point camera at merchant's QR code
  4. Enter payment amount if required
  5. Confirm payment with password/fingerprint
  6. Show success screen to merchant

Show to Pay (出示付款码)

  1. Open WeChat Pay or Alipay
  2. Tap "Money" or "Pay" button
  3. Show your QR code to merchant
  4. Merchant scans your code
  5. Confirm amount on your screen
  6. Payment completed automatically

QR Payment Tips

  • • Always check the amount before confirming payment
  • • Keep your phone charged - carry a power bank
  • • Screenshot your payment QR code for offline use
  • • Learn basic numbers in Chinese for amount confirmation
  • • Some merchants prefer specific apps (WeChat vs Alipay)
  • • Payment history is saved in the app for reference
Typical Costs and Budgeting

Understanding typical costs in China will help you budget appropriately and choose the right payment methods for different situations.

Budget Range

  • • Hostel bed: ¥30-80/night
  • • Street food meal: ¥10-25
  • • Local restaurant: ¥25-50
  • • Metro/bus ride: ¥2-6
  • • Attraction entry: ¥20-100
  • • Daily budget: ¥150-300

Mid-Range

  • • 3-star hotel: ¥200-400/night
  • • Restaurant meal: ¥50-120
  • • Taxi ride: ¥15-50
  • • Coffee: ¥20-35
  • • Museum entry: ¥30-80
  • • Daily budget: ¥400-800

Luxury

  • • 5-star hotel: ¥800-2000+/night
  • • Fine dining: ¥200-500+
  • • Private car: ¥300-600/day
  • • Spa treatment: ¥300-800
  • • Private tours: ¥500-1500
  • • Daily budget: ¥1000-3000+