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Money & Payments

China is basically cashless. Here's how to pay for things without a Chinese bank account.

The Reality: China Is Cashless

Here's the thing most guidebooks won't tell you: cash is almost useless in China now. Even street food vendors and taxi drivers prefer mobile payments. Foreign credit cards are accepted at major hotels and some large restaurants, but that's about it.

The good news? There are workarounds. Here's what actually works for foreign travelers in 2024.

Option 1: WeChat Pay (Best for Most People)

WeChat Pay now accepts foreign credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Diners Club, Discover, JCB). You can link your card directly in the app.

How to Set It Up:

  1. Download WeChat and create an account before you arrive
  2. Go to Me → Services → Wallet → Bank Cards
  3. Add your foreign credit card
  4. Verify your identity with passport details
  5. You can now pay by showing your QR code or scanning merchant codes

Note: Foreign card-linked WeChat Pay has a 5,000 RMB (~$700 USD) monthly spending limit. For longer trips, you'll want Option 2 or 3.

Option 2: Alipay (Higher Limits)

Alipay also accepts foreign cards and has higher spending limits than WeChat Pay for tourists. It's the preferred payment method for many international visitors.

How to Set It Up:

  1. Download the Alipay app
  2. Sign up with your phone number
  3. Go to "Bank Cards" and add your foreign credit card
  4. Verify with passport
  5. Start paying with QR codes everywhere

Pro tip: Alipay has a "Tour Pass" feature specifically designed for foreign visitors, allowing you to preload money without a Chinese bank account.

Option 3: Cash as Backup

While cash is increasingly rare, it's still worth carrying some Chinese Yuan (RMB) as a backup. Here's where cash still works:

  • Some small restaurants and street food stalls
  • Public buses (exact change needed)
  • Taxis (though most prefer mobile pay)
  • Emergency situations when your phone dies

Where to get cash: ATMs at airports, major banks (Bank of China, ICBC), and some hotels. Notify your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks.

Tipping in China

Tipping is not expected in China. It's not part of the culture and can even make people uncomfortable. The only exceptions are high-end international hotels and some tour guides who work with Western tourists. Don't tip at restaurants, taxis, or regular services — it's not necessary.