Is China cashless? How do I pay for things?
An analysis of China's payment environment, covering Alipay, WeChat Pay, bank cards, cash and digital RMB, helping foreign tourists easily complete every payment in China.
7.1 Is China cashless? How do I pay for things?
Welcome to China! As you prepare to embark on an exciting journey, you may have heard the claim: "China has become a cashless society." This statement is largely true, but not entirely accurate. Mobile payments, especially Alipay and WeChat Pay, have been deeply integrated into every aspect of Chinese daily life. From large shopping malls to street food stalls, QR code payments are the absolute mainstream.
However, this doesn't mean you as a foreign tourist will be stuck. On the contrary, China's payment system is becoming increasingly friendly to international visitors. You don't need to worry at all – whether it's mobile payments, bank cards or cash, you have multiple options. This guide will break it all down for you, allowing you to complete every payment in China as easily and confidently as a local.
Mobile payments: Easily link foreign cards and travel worry-free
For tourists who want the most authentic and convenient payment experience, learning to use Alipay and WeChat Pay is your first choice. In the past, the process of linking overseas bank cards was cumbersome, but now both platforms have been fully optimized and support linking mainstream international bank cards such as Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Diners Club and Discover.
The entire process is very simple and usually takes only a few minutes to complete.
Alipay guide
Step 1: Download and register
Search for "Alipay" in your phone's app store (Google Play or App Store) and download it. You can register with an overseas phone number.
Step 2: Add a bank card
After successful registration, tap the bottom right corner "Me" → "Bank Cards," and follow the prompts to add an international bank card. You'll need to enter the card number, expiration date, security code, etc.
Step 3: Start paying
After linking, you can use it in two main ways:
- Scan to pay: Tap "Scan" on the homepage and scan the merchant's QR code.
- Show payment code: Tap "Pay/Collect" on the homepage and let the merchant scan your QR code.
Tips:
- Single transaction limit: $5,000 USD, annual cumulative limit: $50,000 USD.
- Transactions under ¥200 are usually fee-free.
WeChat Pay guide
Step 1: Download and register
Download "WeChat" from the app store and register with an overseas phone number.
Step 2: Activate payment and link bank card
After logging in, go to "Me" → "Services" → "Wallet," and add a bank card to activate the payment function.
Step 3: Start paying
The process is the same as Alipay: scan or show payment code.
Bank cards and cash: Traditional methods still work
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Card payments: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at hotels, large shopping malls and airports, but acceptance is low at small merchants.
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Cash payments: RMB is legal tender nationwide and merchants cannot refuse it. It's recommended to carry some cash for taxis, small stalls or situations with poor network connectivity.
You can withdraw cash at the airport or at ATMs that support international cards. Major banks like Bank of China, ICBC and China Construction Bank also allow withdrawals.
Digital RMB (e-CNY): An emerging convenient option
Download the "e-CNY" app, activate a wallet with an overseas phone number, and top up with Visa or Mastercard. Use it the same way as Alipay and WeChat – scan to pay.
Conclusion: The best strategy is a "combination approach"
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Primary recommendation: Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay before your trip and link an international card.
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Important backup: Carry a physical Visa or Mastercard.
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Essential safety net: Withdraw an appropriate amount of RMB cash for rare scenarios.
Once you master these payment methods, you can travel through China with peace of mind and enjoy a worry-free journey.