Paying in China as a tourist: Alipay and WeChat Pay setup

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In China almost everything is paid by scanning a QR code with Alipay or WeChat Pay, from street snacks to train tickets. Both apps now accept foreign cards, so you can pay like a local if you set them up before you leave Singapore.

Set up Alipay

1. Download Alipay and sign up with your Singapore mobile number.
2. Add a Visa or Mastercard under Bank Cards.
3. Verify your identity with your passport when prompted.
4. Make a small test payment if you can, or check that the card shows as active.

Set up WeChat Pay

1. Download WeChat and register with your mobile number.
2. Go to Me, then Services (or Pay), and add a card.
3. Complete identity verification with your passport.

Set up both: some merchants only take one, and a backup helps if a card is declined.

Fees

Small payments are usually free; larger single payments with a foreign card can carry a small fee. Check the current terms in each app before a big purchase like a hotel bill.

Getting around with Alipay

• Taxis: open the Didi mini-program inside Alipay to book rides in English.
• Metro and buses: many cities let you generate a transport QR code inside Alipay.
• Trains: book on Trip.com or the 12306 app; you'll need your passport number.

If payment fails

Try the other app, then a different card. Keep some yuan in cash, withdraw from a Bank of China or ICBC ATM if needed, and ask your bank in Singapore to allow overseas transactions before you fly.

Questions people ask

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