Is cash still widely used?
For locals, no — WeChat Pay and Alipay have made China one of the world’s most cashless societies. Street vendors, taxis, restaurants, and even small market stalls primarily accept QR code payments.
For foreign visitors, cash remains essential. Foreign credit cards are widely rejected, and setting up WeChat Pay or Alipay as a foreigner requires a Chinese bank account. Carry yuan in cash as a backup at all times.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
UnionPay ATMs are the most common, but many don’t accept foreign Visa or Mastercard. Bank of China and ICBC ATMs in major cities are your best bet.
- Look for ATMs displaying the Visa, Mastercard, or Plus/Cirrus logos
- ATM fees for foreign cards are typically around 25 CNY per withdrawal
- Withdraw enough cash before leaving major cities, as rural ATMs rarely accept foreign cards
Card acceptance
Foreign cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at international hotels and some upscale restaurants, but rejected almost everywhere else. UnionPay cards work broadly. American Express acceptance is very limited.
Tips for travelers
- Exchange currency at Bank of China branches for the best rates
- Carry small denomination notes for markets and street food
- Consider setting up Alipay’s international version before travel — it now allows some foreign card linking
- Always have backup cash, especially outside major cities