China travel answer · Payments
How should tourists pay in China?
Updated 2026-09-14 · Conditions and policies can change
Applies to
International visitors preparing cards, mobile wallets, cash and payment backups.
Editorial status
Published and under review
Last checked 2026-09-14; corrections are applied without unpublishing useful guidance.
Direct answer
Prepare at least two methods: a mobile-payment wallet linked to an eligible card, plus a backup bank card or cash option. Do not depend on a single app.
Before you act on this answer
- ✓Test account verification before departure.
- ✓Keep a second payment method in case an app, card or merchant does not work.
What to know
- ●Complete identity and card verification before arrival.
- ●Tell your bank about travel where required.
- ●Keep some renminbi for situations where digital payment fails.
Primary sources to verify
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