A Guide to Payment in China: Pay with Ease, Travel with Confidence

For many travelers, knowing how to pay is one of the first questions upon arrival. Today, China offers a welcoming and flexible payment environment—from mobile payments to cash and bankcards, multiple options are available to suit your needs.

1. Three Main Payment Methods

Mobile Payment (Most Widely Used)

WeChat Pay and Alipay are the two most popular mobile payment platforms in China. They are accepted almost everywhere, from high‑end department stores to street‑side food stalls.

How to set up:

• WeChat Pay: Download the WeChat app, sign up using your overseas mobile number, and link an international credit card (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, etc.).

• Alipay: Download the Alipay app. It also supports registration with an overseas mobile number and linking of international cards.

How to use:
You can scan the merchant’s QR code and enter the amount to pay, or present your own payment QR code for the merchant to scan.

What’s new in 2026:
Both platforms now allow you to link overseas bank cards without needing a local Chinese bank account. Small‑value transactions may be free of service fees—check the app for details.

Bankcard Payments

UnionPay cards are accepted at virtually all POS terminals across China. International cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, Diners Club, etc.) are also accepted in large shopping malls, star‑rated hotels, international brand stores, and many restaurants.

Cash withdrawal:
Overseas bankcards bearing the UnionPay, Visa, Mastercard, or other accepted logos can be used at corresponding ATMs to withdraw RMB cash. Your home bank may charge a cross‑border withdrawal fee—check with your card issuer in advance.

RMB cash remains a valid and widely accepted payment method in China. It is particularly useful at small vendors, farmers’ markets, some tourist sites, or in areas with weak internet connectivity.

Recommendation:
Carry a modest amount of cash (e.g., RMB 500–1,000) for incidental expenses. For larger purchases, mobile payment or bankcards are generally more convenient

2. Foreign Currency Exchange

Airport Currency Exchange Counters

After landing, you can find currency exchange counters or bank service desks in the international arrivals hall. This is the most convenient option for obtaining a small amount of cash to cover immediate needs like transport and light purchases.

Bank Branches

Major Chinese banks (Bank of China, ICBC, Agricultural Bank of China, China Construction Bank, etc.) offer foreign currency exchange services. Banks typically provide better exchange rates than airport counters. You will need to present your passport, and some banks may charge a small service fee. Business hours are generally 9:00–17:00 on weekdays; selected branches are open on weekends.

Hotels and Authorized Exchange Outlets

Four‑star and five‑star hotels often provide currency exchange services. Authorized exchange operators (such as Travelex) can also be found in major commercial areas and tourist attractions. Rates may be slightly less favorable than banks, but the service is convenient.

Acceptable currencies:
Major currencies such as USD, EUR, GBP, JPY, HKD, AUD, and CAD can be exchanged for RMB. It is advisable to bring newer, undamaged banknotes—some outlets may decline old or heavily worn notes.

Prepare your payment options in advance and enjoy a smooth, worry‑free journey across China!