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7 GUIDES

Paying in China: Money & Payment Guides

Most daily payments in China are made by phone with Alipay or WeChat Pay, and both apps can now link many international cards. Set up at least one app before you travel, and carry a physical card and a small amount of RMB as a backup.

  • Alipay and WeChat Pay for foreigners
  • International cards and ATMs
  • Cash and currency exchange
  • Tipping and everyday prices
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Payments · Step-by-step setup

Alipay for Foreigners: Step-by-Step Setup and Error Fixes

Set up Alipay before you fly: sign up with your home number, link a foreign card, verify your passport and learn the fixes for common card errors.

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Payments · Cards and ATMs

Can I Use My Credit Card in China? Visa, Mastercard and Amex

Foreign cards work at hotels, big sights and chains, but not at most small shops. Link your card to Alipay or WeChat, bring two cards and some cash.

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Payments · Step-by-step setup

WeChat Pay for Foreigners: Setup, Verification, Fees and Limits

Register WeChat with your home number, link a foreign card, verify your passport and pay by QR code. Fees, limits and fixes for failed payments.

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Money · Failed payments

Payment Failed in China? How to Fix Alipay, WeChat Pay and Card Declines

Why Alipay, WeChat Pay and foreign cards fail in China, and the order to try fixes in when a payment is declined at the counter.

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Payments · Comparison

Alipay vs WeChat Pay for Foreigners: Which One Should You Use?

Setup, fees, limits, English support and built-in services compared, and why most visitors should set up both wallets.

Lujiazui skyline in Shanghai with the Oriental Pearl TowerPayments
Payments · Cash and ATMs

Cash in China: ATMs, Exchange and How Much to Bring

Cash is legal tender and a useful backup. How to get yuan from ATMs and exchange counters, how much to carry and how to change it back.

Shanghai Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River on a clear dayPayments
Payments · Etiquette

Tipping in China: Do You Tip, and How Much?

Where tipping is and is not expected in China, how much to give guides and drivers, and how to tip when you pay everything by phone.

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Explore other China travel topics.

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