Beijing
Local Services Beijing 5 min read
Paying in Beijing without AlPay
Cash is still king at small stalls, but the city runs on scan-to-pay. Here's how a visitor survives both worlds.
The reality
Beijing runs on scan-to-pay, but cash still works almost everywhere. The trick is carrying the right mix.
Set up before you arrive
- Alipay and WeChat Pay both accept foreign Visa/Mastercard now — link your card in the app and you're set for 90% of merchants
- You do not need a Chinese bank account
Cash
- Keep ¥500-1000 in small bills for markets, taxis and tiny noodle shops
- Break ¥100 notes at a 7-Eleven — small vendors rarely have change
Cards
Foreign credit cards work in big hotels, malls and DiDi, but not at street stalls. Treat cash as your backup, not your primary.
Locals' Tip
Break big bills at a 7-Eleven or convenience store — small vendors rarely have change for a ¥100 note.
Locals' Crowd