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Download and set up Alipay before landing

Prepare Alipay, add an eligible card, and know the fallback before your first payment fails.

Payment
Source
Official source: Alipay+
Last verified
May 20, 2026
Updated
May 26, 2026

Do this before you fly

Alipay is one of the safest first payment paths to prepare before a China trip. Install it while your normal app store, mobile number, and card verification still work.

Alipay setup path

  1. Download Alipay

    Install Alipay from the App Store or Google Play before departure.

  2. Register with a reachable phone number

    Use a mobile number that can receive verification codes while you travel.

  3. Add an eligible international card

    Open cards or payment settings and add a supported credit or debit card.

  4. Know your fallback

    If Alipay fails, try WeChat Pay, a smaller amount, or a staffed counter.

Phrase card

At the counter

Can I try another payment method?

我可以换一种支付方式吗?Wo keyi huan yi zhong zhifu fangshi ma?
Payment

Alipay

Pay at stores, taxis, transit, hotels, and many daily services in mainland China.

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