Paying in China

This guide outlines the currency used in China, how to download and use the payment apps, alternative payment methods and how much you can expect to spend on a Wendy Wu tour in China.

Currency in China

In China, the local currency is known as the Renminbi (RMB), which is commonly referred to as yuan, and it is divided into smaller units called jiao and fen. The term "yuan" is commonly used when referring to the currency, whereas the terms "Renminbi" and "RMB" are more formal and encompass the entire currency system in China. The basic unit of currency is the yuan (¥), and it is equivalent to 10 jiao. Each jiao is further divided into 10 fen. Therefore, the hierarchy of the currency is as follows: 1 yuan = 10 jiao = 100 fen.

When representing amounts in currency, it is common to use the symbol ¥ before the numerical value. For example, ¥100 represents one hundred yuan. Additionally, the abbreviation RMB (standing for Renminbi) is often used alongside the numerical value, so you might see prices displayed as 100RMB. Here is a reference table of approximate exchange rates (for up-to-date exchange rates, please check xe.com before you travel):

1 unit of currency	Yuan
GBP £1	¥9.71
EUR €1	¥8.17
USD$1	¥7.20

Payment Methods in China

We recommend that you have access to more than one source of money – having access to a combination of payment methods will give the most security and flexibility while travelling.

On our fully inclusive Classic group tours, we recommend carrying enough cash to cover your tipping kitty and for smaller purchases such as drinks, and optional excursions which may be offered throughout your tour. You will be able to use a combination of cash and card on our fully inclusive tours, however, should you wish to shop at markets and some supermarkets, expect to pay using a mobile payment app.

Mobile Payment Apps - WeChat & Alipay

Tips for paying in China with WeChat or Alipay

• You will need to install and set up either WeChat or Alipay on your smartphone device prior to travelling to China due to internet restrictions within China.
• Depending on your smartphone device, you may not be able to install WeChat so we suggest you try Alipay instead.
• An online guide can be found here (please note this is not a Wendy Wu Tours application therefore we are unable to assist with installation).
• You will need an internet connection when in China to use the apps. We recommend checking with your phone provider for international data plans or purchase an E-Sim with providers such as Airalo or Holafly.
• Your Guide is happy to show you how to pay using these apps once in China.
• Check with your bank for any international transaction fees.
• You will need an internet connection when in China to utilise these apps. We recommend checking with your phone provider for international data plans or purchase an E-Sim with providers such as Airalo or Holafly.

Credit/debit card

Cash

In major cities like Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai, you'll find that cash is accepted, and most hotels, restaurants, and the shopping places/factories included in your travel itinerary also accept cash. However in some supermarkets and most local market stalls, cash may not be accepted and payment via Alipay or WeChat may be preferred.
 
We recommend carrying enough cash to cover your tipping kitty and for smaller purchases such as drinks, shopping, optional excursions which may be offered throughout your tour, and porterage if required.

Exchanging money

We recommend exchanging money prior to departure at banks, money exchanges, or at international airports in the UK and Ireland. It is possible to exchange money at your arrival airport and some banks in China and it's a good idea to have a small amount for when you arrive. Your National Escort or Local Guide will also be able to assist with exchanging money at reputable sites while on tour.

Counterfeit cash

This is a problem in China so shop owners and clerks at banks or exchange desks are very cautious and can refuse to accept notes in bad condition. When purchasing cash before you depart from home, or when exchanging cash during your holiday, it is a good idea to stand at the desk to count and check the condition of each note. Do not accept any notes which are torn, very faded, a different shade, have ink stamps or any writing on them. If you accept the notes and sign the exchange receipt, then later notice a problem, you will not be able to exchange them back.

ATMs

Unless you are in a major city, many ATMs only work with the Chinese Banking system. ATMs can be a good source of travel money, especially in major cities, but we strongly recommend that you do not rely on this method – although there appear to be many ATMs available in China, they often run out of cash, have different minimum withdrawal amounts, may not be in English and reject foreign cards. If you do need to use an ATM, we recommend you use the Bank of China machines as they are found in every major city. It is recommended that you visit the ATMs during the open hours of the associated Bank of China branch so that you can go to their staff if anything goes wrong. Try to withdraw as few times as possible because overseas withdrawal fees can be very high.
 
We strongly suggest you alert your bank of your travel plans and check any potential foreign transaction fees or ATM withdrawal limits imposed by your bank.

You can convert any unused notes at the international airport exchange desks when you depart. You will need to present your passport, airline ticket and some receipts of the money exchanged/withdrawn in China. Some banks in the UK may be able to convert your money back into, however please check before departing on your tour.

Spending money

On a two-week Classic Tour, we would recommend approximately GBP350.00/EUR400 per person spending money, although this depends greatly on your individual needs and shopping preferences. For Go Beyond tours, Short Stay/Extensions and your own independent arrangements before or after your tour, you will need to budget for additional meals, drinks, transportation, optional excursions, extra tipping, and anything not included in your tour price.

The price of a meal or drink will vary from city to city, and depending on where you choose to eat, with the cost of meals and drinks in major cities generally more expensive than rural areas.

As a guide on price, you can expect to pay:

Common snacks:

• Street food snacks (such as dumplings or baozi): ¥10-¥20 (approx. £1.08-£2.17 / €1.28-€2.56)
• Skewers (such as lamb skewers or grilled vegetables): ¥5-¥10 per skewer (approx. £0.54-£1.08 / €0.64-€1.28)

Drinks:

• Bottle of water (500ml): ¥12-¥15 (approx. £1.30-£1.63 / €1.54-€1.92
• Soft drink or soda (can or bottle): ¥12-¥15 (approx. £1.30-£1.63 / €1.54-€1.92)

Meals:

• Noodle or rice dishes (such as fried noodles or steamed rice with meat/vegetables): ¥20-¥40 (approx. £2.17-£4.33 / €2.56-€5.12)
• Fast food meal (at popular chains like McDonald's or KFC): ¥20-¥40 (approx. £2.17-£4.33 / €2.56-€5.12)
• Mid-range local restaurant: ¥80-¥150 per person (approx. £8.67-£16.26 / €10.25-€19.21
• Fine dining or upscale restaurant: ¥200-¥500+ per person (approx. £21.69-£54.23+ / €25.60-€64.25+)

Plan ahead

Once you have started your tour, you will quickly get a sense of how often or how much you need to exchange money. Try not to leave this to the last minute: exchange desks can close, ATMs can run out of cash and your group could be scheduled to leave your hotel at 7am tomorrow morning!

Paying in China - in conclusion

Paying in China can be simple and convenient when you’re prepared. By understanding the local currency and utilising mobile payment apps like WeChat and Alipay, you’ll find that most transactions are seamless. Always have a backup plan with cash and international credit or debit cards for added security. With these tips, you can focus on enjoying your travel experience without worrying about financial transactions. Safe travels and enjoy the wonders that China has to offer!