China travel answer · Accommodation
Do hotels in China require a deposit at check-in?
Reviewed 2026-09-19 · Conditions and policies can change
Direct answer
Many hotels request a room deposit or card authorization at check-in, although the amount and payment method vary. The unused balance is normally released or returned after checkout.
What to know
- ●Ask whether the hotel accepts your international card for the deposit.
- ●Keep the deposit receipt if you pay in cash.
- ●Card authorization releases can take additional time depending on the issuing bank.
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