In China, you can enjoy convenient cashless payment services with just a mobile phone. Mobile payment services such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are the most commonly used payment methods among Chinese people.
Travelers from around the world share their go-to apps for navigating Guangdong, particularly Alipay and WeChat, and enjoying all that China has to offer.
Step 1: Download the apps from the App Store
Search for the apps in the App Store, Google Play, or on the official Alipay and WeChat websites. Install the version with English support. Once opened, switch the interface to English.
Step 2: Register with your phone number
Change the country code, and enter your mobile number. Input the SMS code you receive and set a password. You may get a notification asking you to upload a copy of your passport.
Step 3: Link a credit or debit card
For Alipay, tap "Add now" and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the process. You can enter your bank card number by scanning.
For WeChat, tap [Me] > [Services] > [Wallet] > [Bank Cards], and add your card to WeChat.
Visa, Mastercard, and other international cards are supported. Please refer to the latest information in the app for specific eligibility criteria.
Step 4: Enjoy cashless payments in China.
You can scan the merchant's QR code to pay, or show your own payment code for them to scan. It can be used in most consumption scenarios in Chinese cities, including public transportation, supermarkets, shops, and restaurants.
For Alipay
For WeChat
Travel Tip:
Keep your phone charged and connected; offline apps won't scan. You can find free Wi-Fi at airports, cafés, and malls, and prepaid SIMs can be purchased at the airport and other transit points.
Carry some cash as backup in case individual merchants are unable to accept mobile payments or if there are technical issues with the network or international accounts.
You can also use these two apps to scan QR codes to order food at restaurants, translate content, use shared bikes, hail a ride, and more. Welcome to explore China's mobile lifestyle.
