Payments, SIM and transport

Paying for things

Most everyday payments in China are made by scanning a QR code with Alipay or WeChat Pay. Both apps let foreign visitors link an international Visa or Mastercard. Set this up before you fly.

• Link a card and verify your identity in the app with your passport. Some features only unlock after verification.
• Fees: payments with a foreign card may carry a fee on larger amounts. Check the app's current terms before relying on it for rent or big purchases.
• Backups: keep a second card and some cash. International cards are accepted at many hotels, large stores and airports, but not everywhere.
• China's government announced in early 2026 that it is working to make payment and telecom services easier for overseas visitors, so expect improvements, and check what is current.

Staying connected

• Roaming eSIM: buy before you fly, works from landing. Your data routes through a foreign network. Good for short stays and first days.
• Local SIM: buy in person at China Mobile, China Unicom or China Telecom stores with your passport. Cheaper for longer stays and gives you a local number, which some apps and deliveries ask for.
• Many visitors use both: eSIM for the first days, a local SIM once settled.
• Local internet access follows Chinese rules. We do not advise on getting around them.

Getting around

• Metro: large cities have extensive metro networks with signs in English. Most riders pay with a QR code in Alipay or WeChat; some cities also accept contactless bank cards at selected gates.
• Taxis and ride-hailing: available inside Alipay and WeChat as mini-programs, some with English interfaces. Have your destination in Chinese characters.
• High-speed rail: book through the official China Railway 12306 service, which has an English version. Tickets are tied to your passport; bring it to the station.