Pay in Cash — the Most Valid Option Paying in cash is the most common payment method for travelers and is accepted in every corner of China. Making mobile payments is popular in most Chinese cities; however, if you want to explore rural areas, cash is the main way to pay.

In 2026, paying for things in China as a tourist is almost entirely digital, centered on Alipay and WeChat Pay. China is a "QR code economy," where even street vendors prefer mobile scans over cash. Tourists can now easily download these apps and link their foreign Visa or Mastercard directly, allowing them to pay like a local. While cash (RMB) is still legally required to be accepted, many small shops may not have change, making it a backup option only. High-end hotels and large shopping malls in cities like Beijing and Shanghai will accept physical foreign credit cards, but for taxis, food stalls, and entry tickets, the mobile apps are essential. In 2026, some tourists also use the "e-CNY" (Digital Yuan) app, but Alipay’s "International Version" remains the most user-friendly and widely adopted method for foreigners navigating the country.