How to Pay in China - Alipay 支付宝, Wechat 微信, QR Code, NFC

When traveling in China, the most convenient way to make payments is through mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay.

0:13 - Functions
They can be used for public transport, example for train and bus, Select transport, activate card for first time user, generate the QR code, scan, and the fare will be deducted automatically.

They can also be used for bicycle rentals, and even booking rides through the Mini Didi app which is China’s Uber equivalent.

Users can get discounts on entrance fees to attractions, meals, and other services for participating merchants, often purchasing them directly within the app.

Selected restaurants allow users to view menus, order food, and pay via the app, making dining more convenient.

Both apps support linking an international bank card, allowing overseas travelers to easily start their mobile payment journey in China.

1:02 - WeChat vs Alipay
WeChat Pay is more commonly used in certain cases, such as some suburban areas, attraction bookings, exclusive discounts, menu browsing, and at shops that may only support WeChat payments.

Complex Verification Process – Activating WeChat Pay may require multiple verification steps, including approval from an active user friend. Security & blocking issues – Some users face suspensions or freezes if WeChat detects suspicious activity, such as logging in from a different country.

For a better experience, Alipay is generally easier for foreigners due to its simpler verification process and broader international payment card support. Alipay may ask users to scan their identity document such as passport and face photo for verification.

Both apps include built-in translation options to help navigate the interface.

Without a China bank account, you can't send or receive money using the app

You’ll need internet access to use the app, so ensure you have a local SIM card, eSIM or roaming setup for mobile data.

Cash
While cash is still accepted in China, some vendors may not have exact change, and it's definitely a less convenient option. If you prefer to use cash, there are counters or kiosks where you can purchase transport or attraction tickets.

For online shopping, example Taobao and Tmall, Alipay is the default due to its integration with Alibaba. For quick peer-to-peer transfers or small purchases, people often prefer WeChat Pay. Unlike Alipay, which is primarily a payment platform, WeChat is a social and messaging app with built-in payment features. WeChat does not have end-to-end encryption, hence messages can be accessed by the company or authorities if required.

3:26 - NFC Payment
Apple Pay, Google Pay, and NFC-enabled Android phones support transit cards in China but only China Union Pay card is accepted.

NFC-based mobile wallets offer a better payment experience compared to QR code-based systems. With NFC, users simply tap their phone to pay—no need to open an app, select a payment mode, or scan a QR code, which can be cumbersome in low-light conditions. NFC is also considered more secure.

Both Alipay and Wechat pay support NFC payments, allowing users to make payments by simply tapping their NFC-enabled smartphones on compatible readers. Implementing NFC payments requires merchants to invest in specialized point-of-sale terminals, which can be expensive. In contrast, QR code systems are more affordable and easier to set up, making them more appealing to small and medium-sized businesses. NFC payment adoption in China remains low.

QR code payments dominate in China because many low-cost Android phones lack NFC chips. Recognizing this, Alibaba and WeChat designed their payment systems around universally available hardware—cameras, screens, and WiFi—allowing rapid adoption across China’s massive population.

You can use Apple Pay in selected shopping malls, supermarkets, restaurants and stores. However Some shop staff may not know how to handle Apple Pay even though the shops adopt the system.

4:46 - How to Pay Using QR Code
1. To make payment, scan the merchant’s QR code. Verify the merchant's name, enter the amount and tap 'Pay' or
2. Show your QR code if the casher has a scanner

In China, biometric payment systems have evolved to include palm recognition technology, offering users the ability to make transactions by simply scanning their palms. This innovation is primarily spearheaded by Tencent through its Weixin (WeChat) Palm Payment system.

7:01 - International Partner e-Wallets
No additional setup is required for cross-border payments.

mPay (Macao, China)
Hipay (Mongolia)
Changi Pay and OCBC (Singapore)
Naver Pay, Toss Pay, Kakao Pay (South Korea)
TrueMoney (Thailand)
AlipayHK (Hong Kong, China)
Touch and Go (Malaysia)

Transactions are processed using Alipay+ foreign exchange rates, which are updated and transparently displayed each business day, with no extra fees charged by Alipay+.