How to Make Payment in China & Currency Exchange

Traveling in China is now highly convenient thanks to the rapid development of mobile payments, modern banking systems, and widespread cash acceptance. While China is often described as a “cashless society,” in reality, international travelers still have multiple reliable payment options. At Yaso Trip, we help travelers understand how payments work so they can travel confidently across China and Indochina without confusion or inconvenience.

Overview: Payment System in China

China operates a multi-layer payment system, which includes:

• Cash (RMB) – still universally accepted
• Bank cards (Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay, etc.) – accepted in many urban businesses
• Mobile payments (Alipay & WeChat Pay) – most commonly used in daily life

In major tourist cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xi’an, Guilin, and Kunming, payment is easy and flexible. In rural areas, cash remains more important.

1. Cash in China (RMB – Renminbi)

Cash is still widely used and remains an essential backup payment method for travelers.

Where cash is useful:

• Street food stalls and local markets
• Rural towns and scenic areas
• Small restaurants and family-run shops
• Taxis and short-distance transport
• Small entrance fees or local services

Chinese currency basics:

• Currency name: Renminbi (RMB / 人民币)
• Unit: Yuan (¥ / CNY)
• Common banknotes: ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥20, ¥50, ¥100
• Smaller units: Jiao (角), rarely used today

💡 Local usage tip: Chinese people often say “kuai (块)” instead of yuan.

2. Credit & Debit Cards in China

International cards such as Visa, Mastercard, JCB, and Discover are accepted in selected locations.

Where cards are commonly accepted:

• International hotels
• High-end restaurants
• Shopping malls in big cities
• Airports and major attractions

Limitations:

• Many small businesses do not accept foreign cards
• Some POS systems only support Chinese domestic cards
• Rural and local shops rarely accept card payments
• Foreign transaction fees may apply depending on your bank

💡 Recommendation: Cards are useful, but should not be your primary payment method in China.

3. Mobile Payments in China (Alipay & WeChat Pay)

Mobile payment is the dominant payment method in China and is used for almost everything.

Main platforms:

• Alipay (Zhifubao / 支付宝)
• WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay / 微信支付)

What you can pay with mobile apps:

• Restaurants and cafes
• Hotels and transport
• Supermarkets and convenience stores
• Taxi rides and ride-hailing services
• Tourist attractions and tickets

For international travelers:

Since recent updates, many visitors can now:

• Link international Visa/Mastercard to Alipay or WeChat Pay
• Use QR code payments in major cities
• Access simplified verification systems

⚠️ However, compatibility may vary depending on your country and bank, so setup before travel is recommended.

4. Airport & Tourist Payment Support Services

Major international airports in China provide Foreign Guest Service Centers, especially in:

• Beijing
• Shanghai
• Chengdu
• Xi’an
• Kunming
• Zhangjiajie

Services available:

• Currency exchange assistance
• Mobile payment setup guidance
• SIM card support
• Cash withdrawal help
• Payment consultation for tourists

These centers are especially helpful for first-time visitors.

5. Currency Exchange in China

Foreign currency exchange is easy in China, and multiple options are available.

1. Banks (Best Exchange Rate)

Banks provide the most reliable and official exchange service.

• Safe and regulated
• Competitive exchange rates
• Requires passport identification
• May involve waiting time

2. Airports & Hotels (Most Convenient)

• Available immediately upon arrival
• Faster service
• Slightly less favorable exchange rates
• Ideal for small initial cash needs

3. ATMs (Fastest Daily Option)

ATMs are widely available in cities and support international cards.

Advantages:

• Quick and convenient
• Often better exchange rates than hotels
• Available 24/7 in cities

Important notes:

• ATMs usually dispense cash first, then return the card
• Foreign bank withdrawal fees may apply
• Visa and Mastercard are widely supported in major cities

6. Important Cash Regulations

Travelers should be aware of basic customs rules:

• Recommended cash limit when entering China: up to RMB 20,000 or equivalent foreign currency
• Larger amounts must be declared at customs
• It is advisable to carry a mix of RMB and foreign currency (USD, EUR, GBP) as backup

7. Credit Card Usage Limitations

Even though credit cards are available in China, usage is still limited compared to Western countries.

Best usage locations:

• International hotel chains
• Large retail stores
• Airports
• High-end restaurants

Not commonly accepted:

• Street vendors
• Small family restaurants
• Rural tourist areas
• Local transportation services

8. How to Avoid Counterfeit Money

Although rare, travelers should know basic RMB security features:

Key verification points:

• Watermark visible when held against light
• Raised texture on Mao portrait area
• Color-changing numbers (especially ¥50 and ¥100 notes)
• Hidden denomination patterns under light
• Security thread embedded in banknotes

If you receive suspicious notes, report them to a bank immediately.

9. Recommended Payment Strategy by Yaso Trip

For a smooth travel experience across China and Indochina (Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar), we recommend combining all payment methods:

Best combination:

• Small amount of RMB cash for daily use
• Mobile payment (Alipay/WeChat Pay) for convenience
• International credit card for hotels and backup
• Emergency foreign currency (USD/EUR)

This ensures you are fully prepared in both urban and rural areas.

Final Note from Yaso Trip

Payment in China is simple, modern, and highly efficient, especially in major tourist destinations. With proper preparation, travelers can enjoy a seamless experience without financial stress, allowing full focus on culture, landscapes, and adventure across China and Southeast Asia.