Nowadays, mobile payments are particularly popular in China. Many people like me haven’t used cash for years. It's really handy because you can quickly and safely pay with just your phone.

It was difficult for foreign tourists, as a Chinese phone number, Chinese Bank card and a long verification process were required. Now, it is quite easy. Just with your local phone number and bank card, and only takes a few minutes.

Here, I'll explain step by step how to set up and use mobile payments. We promise your trip in China will be easy and smooth.

Alipay & WeChat: the Main Methods for Mobile Payment - How They Look Like? 

Alipay and WeChat Pay are the two dominant mobile payment platforms in China. Just like digital wallets, they allow you store money. You can use them for almost everything, like buying groceries or splitting the bill with friends.

Alipay is connected to a big online shopping website called Alibaba, you can use it to shop online too. While WeChat is more than just a payment app—it's also for chatting and sharing stuff with friends.

For foreigners, these two apps are perfect for traveling. Instead of carrying around cash or cards, you can just use your phone to pay. And don't worry about exchange rate—The apps automatically handles currency conversion, providing real-time exchange rates.

Next, we will proceed to learn the setup process for each of these two apps individually.

How to Use Alipay for Foreign Tourists when Traveling China?

First, you need to download the Alipay from your app store; Then open the app, tap “Sign Up”to register with your domestic cellphone number, please choose “international version”. Make sure that your phone can receive the verification code.

Second, add your bank card. Open the app and find the “Add now”button on the main screen. Tap “Add Now” and follow on-page prompts to complete the process.

Bank cards you could link to Alipay:

Now, you are ready for the payment! Please note that for the small amount payment (less than 2,000 USD), you are not required to upload your passport.

You can enjoy Alipay in the following ways:
The first option is tap “Scan”on the main screen, then scan the merchant-presented QR code. If you prefer this way, remember to ask for the right QR code and have your phone ready to scan it. It's helpful to practice a few times as well.

The second option is tap “Pay/Collect”, present your QR code on Alipay to the merchant. They will scan it with their machine to charge you the correct amount. Just hold out your phone, and you're done.

How to Use Wechat for Foreign Tourists when Traveling China?

Just like the Alipay, the steps are simple!

First, download the Wechat from the app store, then sign up with your domestic mobile phone number. Please make sure that your phone can receive the verification code.

Second, tap Me-Service-Wallet to add your bank card. In the Wallet section, tap Add Bank Card to fill in your info and link your foreign card. Agree to the terms, then follow the steps on the screen to finish adding your card.

Bank cards that you could link to WeChat Pay:

Now you are ready to make a payment. Please bear in mind you might need to upload a copy of your passport to verify your identification, just follow the instructions.

You can also enjoy the Wechat Pay in two ways:
The first one: tap“+ Scan”in the top right corner of the main page, scan the QR code provided by the merchant to pay.

The second one: tap “+ Money”in the top right corner of the main page, present Payment-code to the merchant to pay.

Besides mobile payment, other methods like bank card and cash payment are also available in China.

Is It Easy to Use the Bank/Visa Card When Traveling China Right Now?

Yes, using a bank card while traveling in China is generally easy and widely accepted. Many businesses, including big restaurants, supermarkets, and hotels, have card terminals where you can swipe or insert your card to make payments.

Just a friendly heads-up: some international transaction fees may apply. It's always a good idea to confirm with your bank beforehand to understand any potential charges.

Oh, and here's a handy tip: Keep an eye out for signs indicating which types of cards are accepted at each place you visit. While most places welcome card payments, some local eateries and small shops and vendors in remote areas might prefer mobile payment or cash.

Can I Still Use Cash When Traveling China Right Now?

Absolutely! Cash is still a popular and widely accepted way to pay in China. Whether you're dining at cozy local restaurants, browsing through bustling markets, or exploring other destinations, having cash on hand ensures you're always ready to make a purchase.

Most major banks offer currency exchange services or you can find currency exchange counters at airports, train stations, and tourist areas. Also, you can withdraw cash through your bank card at ATMs. Compare rates and fees across different options to ensure you get the best value.

How is the Payment When Traveling around Tibet, China?

Due to its location in the far west of China, Tibet was once considered remote. However, accessing it has become as easy and convenient as any other city in China. Similarly, mobile payment has become mainstream in Tibet, used for both daily life and visiting Tibet.

In major tourist destinations in Tibet, mobile payment is widely accepted, even at locations like Everest Base Camp and Mount Kailash. Only in some remote villages, particularly along hiking routes, poor signal reception may hinder the use of mobile payment.

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To ensure a seamless journey, prepare some cash before traveling to these remote areas. Also, you can tip the guide with cash along the way and donate to the monasteries in Tibet for good fortune.

More Tips for Mobile Payment in China

1. The Alipay app has just introduced a pilot program offering translation services in 14 more languages! Now, you can enjoy the convenience of other languages translations.

2. WeChat Pay has been increasingly accommodating for foreign tourists. This includes providing multilingual support and improving the registration process for non-Chinese users.

3. Alipay is recommended because it can generally cover all your purchase needs in Tibet. And the registration process is easier and no verification is required, compared with Wechat Pay.

4. If you just stay in China for a short period, there is no need for you to apply for a Chinese Bank card. The payment methods explained in this article are enough for a smooth trip.

5. Here are two English services lines. Alipay English Service: +86-571 2688 6000 and WeChat Pay English Service: +86 95017. You can contact them for more guidance and details.

Conclusion

In China, mobile payment for foreign tourists has become super simple, requiring only a phone number and bank card. You can choose mobile payment as your main payment and carry some cash as a backup. If you have any questions about payment methods for foreigners in China, feel free to contact us!