When you first visit China, you’ll be amazed by how widespread digital payments are. From street food to souvenirs, hardly anyone accepts cash anymore! They simply don’t have change for you.
When I returned from the US to settle down in Shanghai nine years ago, I felt like a fish out of water. After enjoying a delicious meal at a restaurant, I pulled out my credit card (the American way, right?). The waitress’s eyes widened in surprise. “Oh, okay… please come to the counter with me,” she said. My friend just laughed and quipped, “Are you living in the last century?” She then took out her phone, scanned the QR code on the table, and paid within seconds.
I was shocked and impressed. Was it really that easy? No need to wait for anyone to process the payment?
Later, I learned that China bypassed the credit card era and jumped straight into the digital payment age.
So, what are these magical digital payment methods that have taken China by storm? Let me introduce you to the two main players:
- WeChat Pay: Integrated within the ubiquitous WeChat messaging app, WeChat Pay is incredibly popular among locals. It’s used for everything from splitting bills with friends to paying for groceries and even hailing a taxi.
- Alipay: While not as deeply ingrained in daily life as WeChat Pay, Alipay still boasts a massive user base. It’s a standalone app, known for its user-friendly interface and wide range of features, including bill payments, investments, and even buying travel insurance.
For foreign tourists, I’d recommend Alipay. Why? It has a dedicated “Tour Pass” feature designed specifically for visitors. You can easily link your international credit or debit card to the Tour Pass and preload it with Chinese currency. This makes it super convenient to pay for things without needing a Chinese bank account.
How to Register for Alipay and WeChat Pay
Alipay
- Download and Install: Download the Alipay app from your app store. Ensure you’re getting the mainland China version, not the global or Hong Kong versions.
- Register:
- Open the app and select “Register.”
- You can register using either your phone number or email address. If you use your phone number, make sure to select the correct country code (+86 for mainland China).
- Follow the prompts to verify your phone number or email.
- Link a Payment Method:
- Once registered, you’ll need to link a payment method. You can link a major international credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) for Tour Pass.
- Verify Your Identity:
- To use Alipay fully, you’ll need to verify your identity. You can usually do this within the app by providing your passport information and a photo of your passport.
WeChat Pay
- Download and Install: Download the WeChat app from your app store. Look for the international version if you’re outside of China.
- Register:
- Open the app and tap “Sign Up.”
- Provide your phone number and follow the prompts to verify it.
- Link a Payment Method:
- Go to “Me” > “Wallet” > “Cards.”
- Tap “Add a Card” and follow the instructions to link your international credit or debit card.
- Verify Your Identity (Optional):
- While not always required, verifying your identity can unlock additional features and higher transaction limits. You’ll need your passport to complete this step.
Of course, WeChat Pay is still a viable option if you’re planning on using WeChat for communication anyway. However, Alipay’s Tour Pass and generally more straightforward interface give it a slight edge for travelers.
Whichever app you choose, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can go cashless in China. Just remember to have your passport handy for verification, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you get stuck. Most young people in China are happy to lend a hand and show you the ropes of digital payments.
So, embrace the future of payments and leave your wallet at home! With WeChat Pay or Alipay, you’ll be paying like a local in no time.
Yin, Jeffrey