Travel Shopping & Payment Tips in China

Online Shopping
Many online platforms in China, like Tmall and JD.com, offer international shipping, making it easier for tourists to buy products while traveling.

Popular Chinese E-commerce Websites:

• Taobao – www.taobao.com
• JD.com – www.jd.com
• Pinduoduo – www.pinduoduo.com
• Amazon China – www.amazon.cn

Tips for Non-Chinese Speakers:

• Most Chinese platforms are in Chinese, which can be tricky for foreign users. Use translation tools like Google Translate or Baidu Translate to navigate.
• Choose websites with English interfaces, like Amazon China.
• Payment is mainly via WeChat Pay, Alipay, or Chinese bank cards. International credit card acceptance is limited. Some platforms, like Amazon China, do accept Visa or MasterCard.
• Chinese logistics can be complicated. Make sure your delivery address is accurate, written in Chinese, and consider asking a local friend for help.
• Avoid clicking unknown links or paying through unofficial channels like private WeChat transfers.

Beware of Counterfeit Goods:
In some tourist areas or markets, fake or low-quality items may appear. For branded products, shop at large malls or certified stores to ensure authenticity.

Convenience Stores & Vending Machines

• Many convenience stores, such as 7-Eleven or FamilyMart, are open 24/7. You can easily buy snacks, drinks, or daily necessities at any time.
• Vending machines are common in subway stations, malls, and tourist spots, offering drinks, snacks, and essential items.

Currency Exchange & ATMs

• Exchange money at airports, banks, hotels, or official exchange points.
• Major banks: Bank of China (BOC), Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), China Construction Bank (CCB).
• Most ATMs support UnionPay cards, and some accept Visa/MasterCard. Look for ATMs with an “English” option.
• Bank hours are usually 9:00–17:00 on weekdays for personal services.

International Credit Cards:

• Accepted mainly in high-end hotels, large malls, and airports.
• Smaller restaurants, street vendors, and taxis usually do not accept cards.
• Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal have limited or no support.
• WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used and recommended for daily payments.

Currency in China:

• The official currency is Renminbi (RMB / CNY), also called Yuan (¥).
• Common banknotes: ¥100, ¥50, ¥20, ¥10, ¥5, ¥1; coins: ¥1, ¥0.5, ¥0.1.
• Carry some cash for small vendors, remote areas, or traditional markets.
• Be careful to recognize counterfeit or damaged notes.

China has almost gone cashless. Installing Alipay or WeChat Pay on your smartphone will make shopping, dining, and transportation much easier.