China Travel Guide 2026 -Your Comprehensive Guide to China’s e-Wallets!

Step 1: Download a Digital Wallet

Opt for WeChat Pay or Alipay – China’s digital wallet giants.

Download your chosen app from your device’s app store.

WeChat Pay and Alipay both accept Visa, Mastercard, Diners Club, Discover, and JCB cards, while American Express only works with WeChat Pay.

Important!

Both WeChat Pay and Alipay support transactions using credit and debit cards.


Step 2: Registration

Sign up using your phone number and follow the app’s verification process. Your data will be secure.


Step 3: Link Your Preferred Payment Method

Link an international credit card to your preferred digital wallet, and you should be good to go!


Step 4: Use QR Codes

Get ready to scan and pay!

Scan QR codes using the app's built-in scanner to make instant payments while shopping, dining, visiting street stalls, or taking public transportation (buses, subways, and even bike rentals).


Quick Tips

Download the app before traveling to get a feel for the app's layout and interface!

Use Wi-Fi when registering to avoid any data charges.

Connect Alipay with Visa, Mastercard etc. for easy digital payments.

While e-wallets are widely used in China, always bring some emergency cash!

For Malaysian travelers, Touch’n Go (TNG) eWallet has partnered with Alipay. It can be accepted by over 10 million merchants in China - however, the payment process may take around 1 minute.

For any questions related with Alipay and WeChat Pay, you may contact the customer service call via WeChat (+86 57195017) and Alipay (+86 57126886000).