You might be surprised to learn that cash and cards aren't the go-to payment methods in China—mobile payments are! While first-time visitors may find the system a bit confusing at first, apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are how most locals pay for everything, from street food to shopping. Want to pay like a true local? This quick guide will help you navigate China's cashless payment scene with ease.
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Popular Payment Methods: WeChat Pay, Alipay & More
Thanks to super apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay, China has embraced a cashless lifestyle. In fact, around 80% of daily transactions happen through mobile payments—just a quick tap or scan away! Whether you're grabbing street food, shopping at a mall, or dining at a restaurant, simply scan a QR code or show your payment code to complete the transaction.
The good news? Foreign visitors can now link their international bank cards to these apps, and the setup process has become much simpler than before. Below, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step registration to help you pay like a local.
Important Note:
While mobile payments are the easiest way to pay in China, your bank may charge transaction fees, and exchange rates can vary. For the best experience, check with your bank about overseas payment costs before your trip.
How to Use WeChat Pay for Tourists
China's cashless payment system is convenient, and as a visitor, you can easily use WeChat Pay—one of the country's most popular payment methods. Follow these simple steps to set it up and start paying like a local!
1: Download the WeChat App
- Available on the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android)—look for "WeChat" or "微信" (its Chinese name).
- WeChat isn't just for payments—it's also a messaging app (like WhatsApp), so you can chat with guides, hotels, and new friends in China.
2: Register for a WeChat Account
You can sign up in two ways:
(1) Using your phone number (most common):
- Enter your number and verify it with the SMS code sent to you.
(2) Via Facebook (if available in your region).
- Some users may need to provide passport details for verification.
3: Link Your International Card
(1) Go to Me → Services → Wallet → Bank Cards.
(2) Enter your Visa, Mastercard, Amex, JCB, Diners Club, or Discover card details.
(3) Complete verification (follow on-screen instructions).
Note:
- Most stores accept foreign cards, but small vendors may only accept Chinese cards or cash.
- Your bank may charge foreign transaction fees—check before traveling.
Instructions for WeChat Pay
4: Making Payments (Two Ways)
Show Your Payment Code (for cashiers to scan):
- Open Wallet → Payment Code → display for scanning.
Scan the Merchant's QR Code:
- Tap Scan in WeChat, scan the store's code, enter the amount, and confirm.
Now you're ready to pay seamlessly across China—from street food stalls to luxury boutiques! If you run into issues, ask a local or your hotel for help.
Pro Tip: Carry a little cash as a backup for small vendors or rural areas.
Enjoy the convenience of mobile payments during your tour!
How to Use Ali Pay for Tourists
China's cashless payment system is incredibly convenient, and Alipay (along with WeChat Pay) is one of the best ways for travelers to make seamless transactions. Here's your step-by-step guide to setting up and using Alipay like a local!
1: Download the Alipay App
- Available on the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android)—search for "Alipay".
- Unlike WeChat (which is mainly a messaging app with payment features), Alipay is primarily a digital wallet, similar to PayPal but with more functions for daily use in China.
2: Register for an Alipay Account
- Sign up using your email address or phone number (any international number works—no need for a Chinese SIM).
- Make sure to select the international version of Alipay for smoother transactions.
3: Link Your International Card
1. Go to "Me" → "Bank Cards" and enter your card details.
2. Alipay accepts Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Diners Club, and Discover cards.
3. Complete verification (follow the app's instructions).
Instructions for Alipay
Important Notes:
- While most stores accept foreign cards, some small vendors may not.
- Your bank may charge foreign transaction fees—check before traveling.
4: Use TourCard for Wider Acceptance
If your card doesn't work or a merchant doesn't accept international cards, try TourCard—a prepaid digital wallet within Alipay.
How to Set Up TourCard:
1. Search "TourCard" in Alipay.
2. Verify your identity with your passport.
3. Load Chinese Yuan (CNY) into your TourCard balance.
TourCard in Alipay
Pros:
- Works at more merchants, including small shops that don't take foreign cards.
- Easy to top up as needed.
Cons:
- Charges a 5% service fee per top-up.
Making Payments with Alipay
Pay with Your Payment Code (for cashiers to scan):
- Open Alipay → Tap "Pay" → Show your QR code.
Scan the Merchant's QR Code:
- Tap "Scan" → Scan the store's code → Enter the amount → Confirm.
Pro Tips for Travelers:
Always carry some cash as a backup for small vendors or rural areas.
Check exchange rates and fees before loading money into TourCard.
Ask for help—hotel staff or locals can assist if you encounter issues.
Cash Is Frequently Used by Tourist
Currency exchange services are widely available at international airports, major hotels, and ports. You can exchange cash at these locations or visit a local bank with your passport for transactions.
While cash is no longer the primary payment method in China, it remains a convenient option for travelers. Paying with cash is common among tourists and older individuals who may not be accustomed to digital payment systems.
In smaller towns and rural areas, cash is still accepted, so carrying some can be useful in case of emergencies. However, be aware that many shops may not keep sufficient change, as mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are far more common. For a smoother experience, we recommend using digital payments where possible and keeping cash as a backup.
Bank Card: Debit Cards & Credit Cards
In major cities, credit and debit cards from major networks (UnionPay, Visa, Mastercard, etc.) are widely accepted. However, most locals rarely use physical cards for direct payments—instead, they link their cards to WeChat Pay or Alipay for seamless mobile transactions.
Even small vendors and street stalls proudly display QR codes, often preferring mobile payments over cash or cards. If you plan to use your card primarily for cash withdrawals, ATMs are readily available in cities and towns, making it easy to access local currency when needed.
For the smoothest experience, we recommend setting up a mobile payment option if possible, while keeping a card handy for ATM withdrawals.
Start Your China Adventure With Us
Still unsure after reviewing our complete guide to payment services in China? Don't worry—your personal travel consultant is happy to help! With us, simply relax and enjoy your unforgettable China tour. We take care of everything else.
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