A Visa or Mastercard will work in some places in China and not in others, so plan on a mix: the card, a wallet app that the card funds, and a little cash. That mix answers most of the anxious questions travellers ask before they leave.
You are not behind if you are used to tapping a card at home. China simply runs on QR codes, and the card fits in as a helper.
Where is a card worth trying first?
Everyday payment in China runs on QR codes, so card terminals are fewer. ICBC reported equipping 130,000 merchants with POS terminals that accept international credit cards as of March 2024[1]. That shows progress, though it is a small share of all shops.
| Where | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Hotel front desks | Worth trying for deposits and bills; ask when you check in |
| Larger shops and malls in big cities | Try the card, with a wallet app ready |
| Restaurants in tourist areas | Ask before you order |
| Street food, wet markets, small shops | Expect QR or cash |
| Taxis and small ticket counters | Expect QR or cash |
How should you carry the mix?
Link the card to a wallet, because Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, Discover and Diners Club cards can be bound to Alipay and Weixin Pay without a Chinese bank account[2]. Our guides explain Alipay setup and WeChat Pay with a Malaysian card.
Add a small amount of RMB, because renminbi cash is legal tender and merchants should display a cash-accepted sign[3]. See how much to bring in our cash and exchange guide.
What should you tell your bank?
Before you fly, ask your bank to allow overseas use and check your limits. Ask how it charges for foreign currency, and keep its overseas contact number saved offline.
Carry two cards if you can, kept in different bags. If one is declined, the other keeps you moving.
What if the card is refused?
Stay calm and ask whether they take Alipay, WeChat Pay or cash. Pay with the option that works and carry on. A refused card is an inconvenience, not a sign that something has gone wrong with your trip.
If you need cash, see ATM withdrawals with a Malaysian card. Then check the wider list in what to verify about payment methods or browse the prep topic hub.