The Ultimate Guide to Payments in China (2025/2026): Cash, Card, or Code?

Introduction: Navigating China's Cashless Frontier

Traveling to China in 2025/2026 is an experience unlike any other, but one challenge consistently faces international visitors: how to pay. China has sprinted far ahead in the digital payment revolution, making mobile wallets like Alipay and WeChat Pay the default for nearly all daily transactions—from bustling city malls to small street food vendors. While cash is legally accepted, it’s often an inconvenience for merchants who rarely carry change.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the essential payment methods for tourists, focusing on how to set up and use the digital giants with your international cards, ensuring a seamless, stress-free trip.

1. The Digital Dominators: Alipay and WeChat Pay

For any tourist, mastering these two apps is the key to paying like a local. Both platforms have significantly improved their support for international users.

Alipay (Recommended Primary App)

Alipay is generally considered the most straightforward option for foreign visitors due to its dedicated "international version" and features. Search and download from Apple App Store.

Details for Tourists (2025)

Step By Step Setup
Download the Alipay app and register using your international phone number. Complete identity verification with your passport.

Card Linking:
Directly link major international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Discover, Diners Club).

Transaction Limits:
Single Transaction Limit: Up to $5,000 USD. Annual Cumulative Limit: Up to $50,000 USD. Note: Unverified accounts have lower limits.

Payment Method:
Most transactions deduct directly from your linked international card. Scan the merchant's QR code or show your payment code.

TourCard (Alternative):
A prepaid digital debit card option within the app (valid for 180 days). Max top-up of CNY 10,000, but usually incurs a 5% service fee per top-up.

WeChat Pay (Recommended Backup/Social App)

WeChat is primarily a social media platform, with WeChat Pay integrated as its wallet service. It's essential for social interactions and accessing many in-app services (mini-programs).

Details for Tourists (2025)

Step by Step Setup
Download the international version of the WeChat app from Apple App store and register. Verify your identity with your passport.

Card Linking:
Supports binding major international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.)

Transaction Fees:
NO fee for transactions under RMB 200 (approx. $28 USD). A 3% fee applies to transactions over RMB 200.

Transaction Limits:
Single Transaction Limit: Up to RMB 6,000 (approx. $835 USD). Annual Cumulative Limit: Up to RMB 60,000 (approx. $8,350 USD).

Payment Method:
Similar to Alipay, pay by scanning or showing your code. The fees make it more suited for smaller, daily purchases.

Pro-Tip: Set up your Alipay and WeChat Pay accounts and link your cards BEFORE you arrive in China to bypass potential sign-up challenges due to local network restrictions.

2. The Traditional Trio: Cash, Cards, and ATMs

While digital is king, don't write off the old ways entirely.

Cash (Chinese Yuan - RMB/CNY)

It is advisable to carry small denominations (¥20, ¥10, ¥5) of cash for a few specific situations:

• Small, independent vendors (especially food stalls or rural shops) that might use a personal QR code which international cards sometimes can't process, or simply prefer cash.

• Public transport in certain smaller cities or older bus routes.

• Emergencies where mobile service or battery might fail.

Legally, Chinese merchants cannot refuse cash. However, be prepared for some minor reluctance or lack of change.

International Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.)

Direct card acceptance is limited. Your international card is primarily useful in:

• Large, international hotels (for booking and check-in).

• Major department stores and international brand outlets.

• Airport duty-free shops.

For everything else, you will be using your card through Alipay or WeChat Pay.

ATMs

ATMs that accept international cards (look for Visa, Mastercard, or Plus logos) are widely available, especially at major banks like the Bank of China (BoC) or ICBC. This is your most reliable way to get cash in China. Be mindful of potential fees from both the Chinese bank and your home bank.

3. The Verdict: Your Ideal Payment Strategy

Your best approach is a layered strategy:

1. Primary: Alipay with your international credit card linked (for all major and large-sum city purchases like hotels, train tickets, and larger shopping).

2. Secondary: WeChat Pay with your international credit card linked (for small, daily expenses like coffee, snacks, or transit where transactions are under the RMB 200 free-fee threshold).

3. Backup: ¥500–¥1,000 in small denomination cash (for taxis, street food, and rural areas).

By utilizing the power and convenience of China’s mobile wallets, backed up by some cash, you will be well-prepared to enjoy your journey without payment hiccups.

Disclaimer: This article is based on the latest available information and policies for international travelers in China as of late 2024/early 2025. Payment regulations, app features, and transaction limits are subject to change by local financial institutions and government policy without prior notice. Always check the official app details and with your bank before your trip for the most current information and foreign transaction fees.