China Payment Setup: Alipay, WeChat Pay, Cards and Cash: Where card or cash may still matter
A linked international card, a physical card terminal and cash are separate payment options. Check the merchant’s checkout before assuming that one substitutes for another.
Updated · Editorial approach
What to do
- 1
Look for your card network’s acceptance logo at the checkout and ask the cashier if unsure. A hotel accepting one card does not establish that a small shop accepts it.
- 2
Check the amount, currency and any displayed charge before approving a card or wallet payment. Ask your issuer about conversion costs.
- 3
Use an ATM displaying your card network’s logo, check the withdrawal terms and keep the issuer contact available if a transaction fails.
- 4
Keep suitable small notes for the expenses you have planned, and keep the rest of your cash secure.
- 5
Retain receipts and compare an uncertain payment with transaction history before paying again.
Double-check before you rely on this
You have checked the hotel’s deposit rules separately from everyday purchases.
Your cash budget is based on the journey you will actually make.
You know the difference between a declined, pending and completed payment.