Street vendors, metro tickets, museum bookings, even temple donation boxes — in China almost everything is paid by scanning a QR code. The good news: foreign visitors can now use the same apps as locals.
1. Alipay (recommended)
Download Alipay before you travel, register with your international phone number and link a Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Diners or Discover card. You can then scan merchant QR codes or show your own payment code at the counter. The app also has a built-in translator, metro QR codes and taxi booking.
2. WeChat Pay
WeChat is China's all-in-one messaging app. Once you have an account, open Me → Services → Wallet and add a foreign card. WeChat is also how most Chinese people — including our guides — keep in touch, so it is worth installing.
3. Cash and bank cards
- Carry a small amount of Chinese yuan (RMB) for small shops and emergencies. ATMs at airports and major banks accept foreign cards.
- International credit cards are accepted at most upscale hotels, malls and large restaurants, but rarely at small businesses.
- Small transaction fees may apply when paying with a foreign card through the apps; check the current terms in each app.
Tips before you fly
- Set up and verify both apps at home — verification can take a day.
- Tell your bank you will be travelling to China to avoid blocked transactions.
- Make sure your phone has data on arrival: roaming or a travel eSIM bought before departure is simplest.
On our private tours, entrance tickets and included meals are prepaid, so you only need to pay for shopping and free-time extras.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in China?
Apple Pay works at some international hotels and chains, but acceptance is limited. Alipay and WeChat Pay are far more reliable.
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