Journey Through China
← Journal

How to pay in China as a foreign traveller

Oct 4, 2026

How to pay in China as a foreign traveller

Mobile payment is everywhere — here is how to set it up before you land.

Alipay and WeChat Pay both accept international cards now, so you can link a Visa or Mastercard before you arrive. Keep a little cash as a backup for small shops. Larger hotels, train stations and our own trips accept bank transfer, so you are never stuck.