One of the most common questions international travelers ask is: Do you still need cash in China?
The short answer is: not much—but you shouldn’t rely on zero cash either. This guide explains how cash works in China today, when you need it, and how to prepare.
Is China Still a Cash-Based Society?
No. China is one of the most cashless societies in the world.
In most cities, locals pay almost everything using mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay. You’ll see people paying with their phones at:
- Restaurants and cafés
- Taxis and ride-hailing services
- Convenience stores and supermarkets
- Tourist attractions and ticket counters
Many people rarely carry physical cash at all.
Is Cash Accepted in China?
Yes. By law, businesses in China must accept cash.
However, in real life:
- Some small vendors don’t regularly handle cash
- Cashiers may not have enough change
- Paying with cash can slow things down
So while cash is accepted, it is not the most convenient option for travelers.
How Much Cash Should Travelers Bring?
For most international travelers, a small amount of cash is enough.
Recommended amount:
- Around 300–800 RMB for short trips
- Slightly more if traveling to rural areas
This amount is mainly for backup and emergencies.
When Do You Actually Need Cash in China?
You may need cash in these situations:
- Very small street food stalls
- Traditional markets in smaller cities
- Rural areas or small towns
- Emergency situations (phone issues, payment failure)
In major cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, and Chengdu, you can rely almost entirely on mobile payment.
Cash vs Mobile Payment: What’s Better for Travelers?
Cash (RMB)
Pros:
- Works everywhere in theory
- No technical issues
Cons:
- Inconvenient
- Hard to get change
- Easy to misplace
Mobile Payment
Pros:
- Fast and widely accepted
- No language barrier
- Works for taxis, transport, and tickets
Cons:
- Requires phone, battery, and internet
👉 Best option: Use mobile payment as your main method, with cash as backup.
Can Foreigners Withdraw Cash in China?
Yes. Foreigners can withdraw RMB from ATMs in China.
- ATMs at major banks usually accept Visa and Mastercard
- Airport ATMs are the most reliable
- Withdrawal fees may apply depending on your bank
It’s best to withdraw a small amount once, rather than many times.
Should You Exchange Money Before Arrival?
You don’t need to exchange large amounts in advance.
Best options:
- Withdraw cash from ATMs after arrival
- Exchange small amounts at airports or major banks
Avoid street exchange services.
Practical Tips for Using Cash in China
- Carry small bills when possible
- Keep cash separate from your passport
- Don’t rely on cash alone
- Always have a mobile payment app set up
Final Answer: Do You Need Cash in China?
Yes—but only a little.
For modern travel in China, mobile payment is essential, and cash is best used as a backup. With a small amount of RMB and a working mobile payment app, you’ll be well prepared for almost any situation.
