China runs on mobile payments. As a foreign visitor you can join in — here is how it actually works in Hainan.
Set up before you fly
Download Alipay or WeChat, register with your phone number, and add your Visa/Mastercard/Amex card in the app's international section. Verification usually takes minutes.
How it works in Hainan
Scan the merchant's QR code or show your payment code. International cards are widely accepted at hotels, malls, restaurants and tourist sites.
When to expect trouble
Small street vendors and some taxi drivers may not accept international cards — and a fee of about 3% often applies to transactions above ¥200. Keep some cash as backup.
Cash and ATMs
ATMs at Bank of China and ICBC accept foreign cards. Merchants must accept cash by law, though change can be a problem — carry small notes.
Tips Bind your card before leaving home — hotel Wi-Fi can complicate verification. Add a second card if you have one. Ask "Alipay?" and show the app — staff usually understand.
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