Install and Test BEFORE You Travel
Here's why you MUST set up and test your Alipay and WeChat Pay before departing for China:
Essential companion:
You'll also need reliable internet access in China. We visit China regularly—here's our pick for the best eSIM for Chinato ensure seamless connectivity throughout your trip.
Digital Payments Dominate China
China leads the world in mobile payments. From remote villages to luxury malls, cash and foreign credit cards are increasingly obsolete.
Ubiquity
95% of merchants accept only mobile payments
Speed
Transactions complete in seconds
Security
Encrypted payments tied to your device
Convenience
No currency conversion or cash handling
Mobile Payment Adoption Rates
The Two Major Platforms
Alipay (支付宝)
Owned by Ant Group (Alibaba affiliate)
Best for: Shopping, dining, transportation
Tourist feature: Dedicated "Tour Pass" for visitors
WeChat Pay (微信支付)
Integrated into WeChat by Tencent
Best for: Peer-to-peer transfers, small businesses, social payments
Social integration: Built into China's top messaging app
Bottom line: AliPay is the most convenient for tourists and more widely accepted by merchants in Chinas. For most tourists, it is recommended to setup AliPay.
What You'll Need
Huawei warning: Chinese phones may restrict app stores. Install apps before arrival.
Alipay Setup Guide
Step-by-Step Process
- Download Alipay from your app store
- Language: Settings → General → Language → English
- Sign up with international mobile number
- Select "Tour Pass" (visitor feature)
- Verify identity with passport
- Add foreign bank card
Tour Pass Details
WeChat Pay Setup Guide
Step-by-Step Process
- Download WeChat from app store
- Register with international number
- Navigate: Me → Services → Wallet
- Add card: Tap "Cards" → Add foreign bank card
- Verify passport and accept terms
Key Differences
How to Pay
QR Code Payment Flow
Scan Merchant Code
Point your phone at the merchant's QR code
Show Your Code
Display your QR code for merchant to scan
Retail/Restaurants
- 1. Open app
- 2. Tap "Scan"
- 3. Point at merchant's QR code
- 4. Enter amount if prompted
- 5. Confirm payment
Public Transport
- • Scan QR codes at metro gates
- • Mobile transit cards
- • Major cities support
Taxis/Ride-hailing
- • Show your code to taxi drivers
- • Add foreign card in DiDi app
- • Most drivers accept scan-to-pay
Acceptance Overview
| Category | Alipay | WeChat Pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supermarkets | Self-checkout may be scan-only | ||
| Restaurants | High-end venues may accept cards too | ||
| Street Food | Often QR-only, no cash | ||
| Public Transit | Major cities only | ||
| Hotels | International chains vary | ||
| Online Shopping | JD.com works; Taobao doesn't | ||
| Ride-hailing | Add foreign card in DiDi app |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
When Payments Fail
Most Common Causes:
- • Unsupported card type (AMEX often rejected)
- • Incomplete identity verification
- • Merchant has domestic-only account
- • Network connectivity issues
Solutions:
- • Keep ¥200-500 cash as backup
- • Try switching between apps
- • Ensure identity verification is complete
- • Install VPN before arrival
Platform Comparison
| Feature | Alipay | WeChat Pay |
|---|---|---|
| English Support | ✅ Full | ⚠️ Partial |
| Tourist Features | ✅ Tour Pass | ❌ None |
| Setup Difficulty | Easy | Moderate |
| Best Use Cases | Shopping, dining | Social, P2P transfers |
Recommendation: Alipay slightly easier for tourists; WeChat Pay essential for social interactions.
Security Best Practices
Enable biometrics
Fingerprint or Face ID for secure access
Guard your QR code
Never share payment codes publicly
Lost phone protocol
Freeze apps immediately via backup device
Official apps only
Download from Apple App Store or Google Play
Pre-Travel Checklist
Before Departure
Useful Phrase:
"我可以用支付宝或微信支付吗？我是外国人。"
"Can I use Alipay or WeChat Pay? I'm a foreigner."
Final Tips
China's digital payment ecosystem is incredibly convenient once set up properly. With advance preparation, you'll navigate transactions like a local from day one.
Remember: The key to success is testing everything before you travel. A working payment setup transforms your China experience from frustrating to seamless.
Ready to test your setup?
Visit our payment testing platform to verify your Alipay and WeChat Pay accounts work before you travel.
Test Your Payment Setup