How to Pay in China
China is a nearly cashless society. Street vendors, taxis, and malls all rely on mobile apps. To survive, you must set up at least one of the apps below before you fly.
Alipay (Zhifubao)
The most foreigner-friendly app. It has a built-in English translation and allows you to link international credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) directly.
📱 How to Setup (Step-by-Step)
- Download the Alipay app from App Store/Google Play.
- Sign up with your international phone number.
- Go to "Me" -> "Bank Cards" -> "Add Card".
- Enter your Visa/Mastercard details.
- Crucial: Verify your identity (upload passport photo) to lift spending limits.
WeChat Pay (Weixin)
China's "Super App". You need WeChat for communication anyway. It also supports linking foreign cards now, though verification can be stricter.
📱 How to Setup (Step-by-Step)
- Download WeChat.
- Go to "Me" -> "Services" -> "Wallet".
- Select "Cards" -> "Add a Card".
- Follow the prompts to verify your identity (Passport required).
- Note: If you don't see "Wallet", ask a friend to send you a "Red Packet" (0.1 RMB) to activate it.
Visa & Mastercard
Physical cards are NOT accepted at most small shops, taxis, or restaurants. They only work in:
- 5-Star International Hotels
- Luxury Malls (e.g., selling LV/Gucci)
- High-end Western Restaurants
Always have Alipay ready as your primary method.
Cash (RMB/CNY)
Legally, merchants must accept cash, but they often don't have change.
Advice: Keep about 500 RMB in small bills (10s and 20s) for emergencies, like if your phone battery dies or internet fails.
When using Alipay or WeChat Pay linked to an international card (Visa/Mastercard):
✅ Under 200 RMB: Transaction is FREE.
💰 Over 200 RMB: A 3% service fee is charged by the platform.
Tip: If buying a 300 RMB souvenir, ask the merchant if you can split the payment into two (150 + 150) to avoid the fee!