EnjoyChina

分类： Payment

  • Your China Digital Survival Kit: Payments & Must-Have Apps

    Welcome to China’s digital ecosystem. It’s one of the most advanced in the world, and it runs on a handful of “super-apps” that do everything. The biggest hurdle for tourists used to be mobile payments. As of 2025, that problem is finally solved.

    Here is the essential toolkit you need to download and set up before you go.

    Part 1: The “Digital Wallet” (Alipay and WeChat Pay)

    In China, cash is rare and foreign credit cards are rarely accepted, except at high-end international hotels. The entire country—from street-food vendors to taxis to luxury malls—runs on two apps: Alipay and WeChat Pay.

    In the past, these apps required a Chinese bank account, making them useless for tourists. This has changed. Both platforms now allow you to link your foreign credit cards.

    Your Action Plan (Do This at Home):

    1. Download Alipay (支付宝)
      • This is the primary payment app from Alibaba.
      • Download the app and sign up with your home phone number.
      • Go through the identity verification (you may need to scan your passport).
      • Find the “Wallet” section and add your Visa, Mastercard, or other foreign credit card.
    2. Download WeChat (微信)
      • This is China’s “everything app”—primarily for messaging, but with a powerful payment wallet.
      • Download the app and sign up. (You may need a friend who already uses WeChat to verify you, which can be annoying but is a one-time step).
      • Once inside, find the “Wallet” or “Pay” section (it may be under “Me” > “Services”).
      • Add your foreign credit cards here as well.

    How to Use It: When you need to pay, you will do one of two things:

    1. Scan Theirs: The merchant shows you a QR code. You open Alipay or WeChat Pay, tap “Scan,” and scan their code.
    2. Show Yours: You open the app, tap “Pay” or “Money,” and show them your personal QR code. They scan you.

    That’s it. You can now pay for virtually everything in China.

    Part 2: The Must-Have Apps

    With payments and your VPN sorted, you just need the local replacement apps for your daily needs.

    Communication: WeChat (微信)

    Why you need it: This is not optional. It is the primary way everyone in China communicates. You will use it to contact your hotel, tour guides, and anyone you meet. It’s also a payment app and a social media platform.

    Pro-Tip: The built-in translator is excellent. Just long-press any Chinese message and tap “Translate.”

    Navigation: Amap (高德地图)

    Why you need it: Google Maps is blocked and, even with a VPN, has inaccurate and outdated data in China. Amap is the king. It’s the most accurate app for walking, public transit (subways, buses), and driving.

    Pro-Tip: It works in English. While some street names might be in Chinese, the routing and interface are perfectly usable.

    Ride-hailing & Bike-sharing: DiDi (滴滴出行)

    Why you need it: This is the “Uber of China.” It’s cheap, reliable, and covers every city. Didi also provides shared bicycle and electric motorcycle services in many cities, allowing you to roam easily.

    Pro-Tip: You can set it up with your foreign credit card, so you never need to worry about paying the driver. Just like Uber, it’s all handled in-app.

    Translation: Baidu Translate (百度翻译) or Pleco

    Why you need it: You will face a lot of Chinese text, especially on menus.

    Baidu Translate: Has a fantastic “photo” mode. Just point your camera at a menu, and it will translate it live on your screen.

    Pleco: This is more of a powerful dictionary, beloved by students. It’s excellent for looking up specific words and understanding their context.

    With this handful of apps on your phone, you are fully equipped to travel China with the same digital convenience as a local.

  • Navigating Tipping Culture: When (and When Not) to Tip in China

    For many international travelers, especially from North America, tipping is an automatic part of daily life. The question of “How much should I tip?” is a constant calculation.

    When you travel to mainland China, you can let go of that stress.

    The short and simple answer is: Tipping is not a standard practice or cultural expectation in mainland China.

    In most situations, your tip may be politely refused or even cause confusion. It is not considered rude to not leave a tip; in fact, it’s the norm. Excellent service is expected to be part of the job, and staff are paid a full wage, not a “tipped wage.”

    But is this rule absolute? Not quite. Here’s a clear guide on when you should (and shouldn’t) pull out that extra cash.

    Do NOT Tip in These Common Situations

    For 95% of your trip, you will not need to tip. This applies to:

    • Restaurants & Cafes: Whether it’s a local noodle house, a mid-range restaurant, or a coffee shop, tipping is not expected. In many upscale restaurants, a 10-15% “service charge” is already included in the bill, making an additional tip redundant.
    • Taxis & Ride-Hailing: For both taxis and app-based services (like DiDi), you pay the exact fare shown on the meter or the app. No extra amount is necessary.
    • Most Hotel Services: This includes the front desk staff, housekeeping, and the concierge. A polite “Thank You” (谢谢, Xièxie) is the only “tip” they expect.
    • Bars, Salons, and Spas: Tipping bartenders, hairdressers, or massage therapists is not customary.

    A quick note: If you attempt to leave a tip on the table in a restaurant, it’s very likely a waiter will chase you down to return the “forgotten” money. Don’t be offended; this is a common, honest gesture.

    The Few Exceptions: When a Tip Might Be Appreciated

    While not mandatory, there are a few specific, often tourist-focused, scenarios where a tip is a welcome gesture of appreciation for exceptional service.

    • Tour Guides & Private Drivers: This is the most common exception. If you hire a private guide or driver for a full day (or multiple days) and they provide outstanding, personalized service, a tip is a very kind way to show your gratitude. This is especially true for guides who are fluent in your language and go above and beyond.
    • Porters at High-End International Hotels: In 5-star, luxury international hotel chains (e.g., Marriott, Four Seasons, The Ritz-Carlton), porters who carry your bags to your room are often accustomed to receiving small tips from international guests. A small note (e.g., 10-20 RMB) is appropriate.
    • Exceptional Service in Fine-Dining: In some very high-end, Western-style fine-dining restaurants in major cities like Shanghai or Beijing, a small extra tip can be left for truly extraordinary service, but only if a service charge isn’t already on the bill.

    Your Tipping Takeaway

    When in doubt, just don’t tip.

    A genuine smile and a polite “thank you” are far more important and appreciated than a cash tip. Enjoy the freedom of a no-tipping culture and focus on enjoying your meals and experiences without the complex math!

  • Cash, Cards, or Code? Your Complete Guide to Paying in China

    So, you’re all set for your trip to China. You’ve probably heard it’s a “cashless” society, dominated by QR codes and smartphone apps. While that’s overwhelmingly true, it’s not the whole story. What happens if your phone dies? What about your trusty Visa or Mastercard? And is cash completely useless?

    While mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are king, you shouldn’t rely on them 100% of the time. Here’s your complete guide to the different payment methods you can use in China.

    💳 International Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)

    Let’s get this one out of the way first. In most of the world, your international credit card is your go-to travel companion. In mainland China, it’s a backup at best.

    The short answer: Your physical credit card will NOT be accepted in most places.

    Do not expect to tap your card at a coffee shop, local restaurant, or convenience store. Taxis, subways, and local markets will also not accept them.

    Where they might work:

    Major International Hotels: Chains like Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, etc., will almost always accept foreign credit cards at check-in.

    High-End, Tourist-Focused Venues: Some very expensive department stores or fancy restaurants in major cities like Shanghai and Beijing may accept them.

    Booking Online (in advance): You can use your card on international travel sites (like Trip.com or airline websites) to book flights and high-speed trains.

    The best way to use your card: Link it directly to your Alipay or WeChat Pay account. This way, your card’s spending power is channeled through the QR code system that everyone does accept.

    💵 The Importance of Cash (CNY / RMB)

    In a world of QR codes, it feels strange to talk about cash, but it remains essential for any traveler. We strongly recommend always carrying some yuan (also called renminbi or RMB) with you.

    Why you need cash:

    The Ultimate Backup: This is the most important reason. If your phone battery dies, your app freezes, your card gets declined, or the network is down, cash is the only thing that will pay for your taxi ride back to the hotel.

    Small or Rural Vendors: While rare in big cities, some smaller street food stalls, local markets, or vendors in more remote, rural areas may still operate in cash.

    Temporary SIM Cards: You may need cash to purchase a local SIM card at a small kiosk upon arrival (though airport counters often take cards).

    Deposits: Some smaller, independent hotels might prefer a cash deposit at check-in.

    Think of cash as your travel insurance—you hope you don’t need to use it, but you’ll be incredibly glad you have it if something goes wrong.

    🏦 How to Safely Withdraw Cash from ATMs

    So, how do you get this emergency cash? Forget exchanging large amounts of money at home; the rates are usually terrible. The easiest way is to withdraw from a local ATM once you arrive.

    It’s generally a very simple and safe process.

    Where to Withdraw: Stick to major, reputable Chinese banks. Their ATMs are reliable and most will have an English-language option. Look for:

    • Bank of China (BOC): Often the most reliable for international cards.
    • ICBC (Industrial and Commercial Bank of China)
    • China Construction Bank (CCB)
    • Agricultural Bank of China (ABC)

    Key Tips for a Smooth Withdrawal:

    1. Tell Your Bank You’re Traveling: Before you leave, notify your home bank of your travel dates. This prevents their fraud-detection system from blocking your card when it’s suddenly used in China.
    2. Use Bank ATMs: Avoid standalone, unbranded ATMs in convenience stores or remote areas. They have higher fees and are less secure. Use an ATM that is physically attached to a bank branch.
    3. Check for Network Logos: Look for the logos on the ATM that match your card (e.g., Visa, Mastercard, Plus, or Cirrus).
    4. Be Aware of Fees: You will likely be charged two fees for each withdrawal: a service fee from the local Chinese bank and a foreign transaction/withdrawal fee from your home bank. For this reason, it’s better to take out a larger amount once (like 1,000-2,000 RMB) rather than several small amounts.
    5. Basic Security: As always, cover the PIN pad with your hand when entering your code and be aware of your surroundings.

    Your Perfect Payment Strategy

    To navigate China like a pro, don’t rely on a single method. Use a layered approach:

    • Primary Payment (95% of the time): Alipay or WeChat Pay linked to your international credit card. This will cover everything from taxis and street food to shopping malls and subway rides.
    • Backup (Your “Just in Case”): A few hundred RMB in cash tucked away in your wallet for emergencies or for that rare vendor who doesn’t use an app.
    • Last Resort: Your physical credit card, kept securely at your hotel, to be used for hotel check-ins or major online bookings.

    With this setup, you’re ready to pay for anything China throws your way.

  • Go Cashless: Setting Up Alipay or WeChat Pay as a Foreigner

    Planning a trip to China? You’ve probably heard the stories: cash is rarely used, and your usual credit cards aren’t accepted in most places. Welcome to China’s near-cashless society, an ecosystem that runs almost entirely on two “super-apps”: Alipay and WeChat.

    For a long time, this system was a closed loop, accessible only to those with a Chinese bank account. Not anymore.

    Both Alipay and WeChat Pay have opened their doors to international visitors, allowing you to link your foreign credit cards (like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, etc.). This is no longer just a convenience; it’s an essential tool for your trip.

    This guide walks you through the simple process of setting up your account so you can pay for everything from taxis and subway rides to street food and souvenirs, just like a local.

    What You’ll Need Before You Start

    To ensure a smooth setup, gather these items before you fly. It’s much easier to do this from home where you have a stable internet connection and access to your home bank’s verification systems.

    • Your Smartphone: (Apple or Android)
    • Your Passport: For identity verification.
    • Your International Credit or Debit Card: Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover, etc.
    • Your Home Mobile Number: You’ll need it to receive a verification code during sign-up.

    Step 1: Download the App

    First, head to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

    • For Alipay: Search for and download the “Alipay” app. This is a dedicated payment and lifestyle app.
    • For WeChat: Search for and download “WeChat.” WeChat is primarily a messaging app, and “WeChat Pay” is a feature inside it, which you’ll activate.

    Step 2: Register Your Account

    Open your chosen app and begin the sign-up process.

    • You will be asked to register using your mobile phone number.
    • Select your country code (e.g., +1 for the US, +44 for the UK) and enter your home mobile number.
    • You will receive an SMS verification code to confirm your number.

    Step 3: Complete Identity Verification (Real-Name Authentication)

    This is the most critical step. Before you can add any money or cards, Chinese regulations require you to verify your identity.

    1 Find the Payment/Wallet Section:

    • In Alipay: This is usually straightforward. Look for “Wallet” or prompts on the main screen to add a bank card.
    • In WeChat: Tap the “Me” tab in the bottom corner. Then, tap “Services,” and then “Wallet.”

    2 Add a Card to Trigger Verification:

    In the “Wallet” section of either app, find the option to “Add Bank Card.”

    As you begin to add your international card, the app will automatically prompt you to complete “Real-Name Authentication.”

    3 Submit Your Details:

    You will be asked to provide your personal information.

    • Select “Passport” as your ID type.
    • Enter your name exactly as it appears on your passport.
    • Enter your passport number.
    • You will be required to take a photo of your passport’s information page and possibly a live selfie to verify you are a real person.

    This verification is often approved within minutes, but it can sometimes take a few hours. This is why you must do it before your trip!

    Step 4: Link Your International Credit Card

    Once your identity is verified, you can complete the process of adding your card.

    1. Return to the “Add Bank Card” section.
    2. Enter the card number of your Visa, Mastercard, or other supported international card.
    3. Fill in the expiration date, CVV, and any other required details (like your billing address).
    4. Your home bank will likely send you a verification code (via SMS or your banking app) to authorize this new link.

    Congratulations! Your international card is now linked.

    How to Pay: Master the QR Code

    Now for the easy part. In China, payments work in two ways.

    1 They Scan You (Most Common):

    In Alipay: Tap the “Pay/Collect” button on the home screen.

    In WeChat: In the “Wallet,” tap “Money” (or find it via the “+” icon on the main chat screen).

    This will bring up your personal QR code. The vendor scans your code with their gun or terminal, and the payment is deducted instantly. This is what you’ll use in supermarkets, restaurants, and taxis.

    2 You Scan Them:

    Tap the “Scan” button (on the home screen of either app).

    Point your camera at the merchant’s QR code (often a simple, laminated card at a street food stall or in a taxi).

    Enter the amount you need to pay, confirm, and enter your payment password.

    A Few Final Tips

    Fees and Limits: Transactions using an international card are generally free for small amounts (e.g., under 200 RMB). For larger transactions, a small processing fee (around 3%) may apply. This is far better than most currency exchange rates.

    Topping Up vs. Paying Directly: You are not “topping up” a digital wallet. The app simply charges your linked international card directly for each transaction.

    Backup Cash: While mobile payments are king, it’s always wise to carry a small amount of cash (a few hundred RMB) for the rare instance a system is down or a vendor’s machine can’t process foreign-linked accounts.

    You’re all set. By taking 15 minutes to set this up, you’ve unlocked the key to traveling effortlessly across China. Enjoy your trip!