Mobile payment matters
Mobile payment is extremely common in mainland China, from hotels and restaurants to convenience stores and transportation. Chinese government guidance for overseas visitors explains that foreign users can register for Alipay or WeChat Pay and link eligible international cards such as Visa and Mastercard.
Set it up before the trip
- Install the payment app before departure.
- Register with your mobile number and complete any identity steps requested.
- Link an eligible international bank card.
- Tell the issuing bank you are traveling and be prepared for a verification request.
- Keep another card and some RMB cash as backup.
Cards and cash still matter
Official guidance says overseas visitors can also use bank cards where the appropriate card-network logo is displayed and can withdraw RMB cash at compatible ATMs. Cash acceptance remains part of the payment system, but mobile payment is often the smoothest everyday option.
Watch fees and limits
Payment platforms can impose transaction limits and service fees for some international-card payments. These rules can change, so check the current app terms rather than relying on an old threshold copied from a travel forum.
Hotel deposits
Ask whether the hotel requires a deposit or pre-authorization and whether it can be handled with your chosen card or mobile-payment method. A low room rate is less useful if a deposit unexpectedly ties up a large part of your available credit.