How to Use Alipay and WeChat Pay as a Tourist in China (2025 Guide)

If you're planning a trip to China in 2025, here’s something you need to know upfront: China is almost entirely cashless. Forget about paying with your Visa at a corner store or counting coins for dumplings — QR code payments are king.

But don’t worry — even as a foreign traveler, you can use Alipay and WeChat Pay in China without a local bank account. In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to get started with both apps, so you can travel like a local — stress-free and cash-free.

🌟 Why You Need Mobile Payment in China

China’s mobile payment systems are fast, secure, and accepted everywhere — from luxury malls in Shanghai to food stalls in Xi’an. Here's why every traveler should set it up:

Most shops, restaurants, and taxis don’t accept foreign cards or cash

It’s safer than carrying large amounts of RMB

It makes you look like a local — and helps avoid awkward payment confusion

It’s the easiest way to pay for tickets, food, transportation, and shopping

📲 Setting Up Alipay as a Tourist (Step-by-Step)

Alipay is one of China’s top mobile payment apps. Thanks to the “Tour Pass” feature, it’s easy for tourists to use.

Here’s how to set it up:

Download Alipay
Get it from the App Store or Google Play. Look for the one by Ant Group.

Sign Up
Use your foreign phone number to register.

Search for “Tour Pass”
In the app, search “Tour Pass” — this feature allows you to add money via international cards.

Top Up Your Wallet
Add funds using Visa or Mastercard (minimum ¥100, valid for 90 days).

Start Paying
Just scan the merchant’s QR code or let them scan yours.

✅ Pro Tip: You can use Tour Pass at restaurants, shops, hotels, attractions — even street vendors!

💬 How to Use WeChat Pay as a Tourist

WeChat Pay is built into WeChat, China’s all-in-one messaging and lifestyle app. You don’t need a Chinese bank account to use it anymore — here's how:

Download WeChat
Available on the App Store or Google Play (by Tencent).

Create an Account
Sign up with your foreign phone number.

Add a Credit Card
Go to Me > Services > Wallet > Cards, and add your international Visa/Mastercard.

Verify Identity
You may be asked to upload your passport photo for verification.

You’re Ready to Pay!
Tap “Money” to show your personal QR code for merchants to scan.

🚖 Works for taxis, shops, cafes, and even ticket machines.

🧾 Alipay vs. WeChat Pay: Which Should You Use?

Our advice? Download both — some merchants only accept one.

🧭 Where Can You Use Alipay & WeChat Pay in China?

Basically... everywhere.
✅ Street food stalls
✅ Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart)
✅ Taxis & ride-hailing apps like DiDi
✅ Hotels & tourist attractions
✅ Train stations, buses, and even vending machines

Even tiny local noodle shops are likely to accept QR payments — and might not accept cash at all.

⚠️ Important Tips for Tourists

Set up your accounts before landing in China

Bring a few hundred yuan as backup cash, just in case

You’ll need Wi-Fi or mobile data to make payments (pocket Wi-Fi recommended)

Don’t rely solely on your international bank card — many places won’t take it

Update the apps regularly to access new features for tourists

🧳 Traveling to China in 2025? We Can Help!

At fanketravel.com, we help international travelers explore China through custom private tours and affordable group experiences. We’ll not only help you discover the Great Wall, Forbidden City, or pandas in Chengdu, but we’ll also guide you through using local apps, buying train tickets, and yes — setting up Alipay and WeChat Pay.

Whether you’re planning a family trip or joining one of our Beijing group tours, we make travel in China simple, smooth, and unforgettable.

📌 Final Thoughts

Using mobile payments in China may feel unfamiliar at first — but once you’re set up, you’ll wonder how you ever traveled without it. With just two apps and a little preparation, you’ll unlock the full convenience of traveling in one of the world’s most high-tech countries.