China Payments (2026) — Topic Hub
The simplest “no-stress” setup is one working QR payment app + a card + a small cash backup.
Last updated: Apr 21, 2026
Quick answer
In many places, QR payments are the default. Set up WeChat Pay or Alipay before arrival, keep your phone charged, and carry a small cash backup for edge cases.
Best pages to start with
WeChat Pay & Alipay (complete guide)
Setup, linking cards, and how QR paying works.
Cash vs cards (what actually works)
What to expect in cities vs smaller towns.
ATMs & money exchange
Where to get cash and common ATM mistakes.
No Chinese phone number? (setup options)
Workarounds and what to do when verification is painful.
How QR payments work
Scan vs show-code, etiquette, and what to do at small stalls.
Payments not working (troubleshooting)
Common failure modes and quick fixes.
FAQ
Is cash still useful?
Yes—keep a small amount for rare edge cases and peace of mind.
What’s the #1 mistake?
Arriving without a working payment method. Fix it before landing day so food, transport, and tickets are easy.