If you’re planning a trip to Nanjing and wondering whether you can rely on Apple Pay or Google Pay for your purchases, here’s a quick answer: it’s possible but limited. While major cities in China like Beijing or Shanghai have better international payment support, Nanjing—a city rich in history and culture—remains heavily focused on local payment systems. Most small vendors, street markets, and even some mid-range restaurants might not recognize Apple Pay or Google Pay. However, luxury hotels, high-end malls, and tourist-centric areas (like the夫子庙 area or Purple Mountain) may accept them. To avoid payment hassles, it’s smart to pair these methods with a backup plan, like carrying some cash or linking your phone to a Chinese bank account for apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay.
How Does Payment in Nanjing Work Compared to Your Home Country?
Payment habits in Nanjing can feel alien if you’re used to relying on credit cards or digital wallets like Apple Pay. Here, mobile payments reign supreme—over 90% of daily transactions use apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay. Even taxis, street food stalls, and subway ticket machines demand QR code scans. Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels, department stores, and tourist attractions, but they often come with surcharges or require a minimum spend. For context:
| Payment Method | Availability in Nanjing | Where to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Pay/Google Pay | Rare | Luxury hotels, select malls, tourist hubs |
| Credit Cards | Moderate | Hotels, malls, big restaurants |
| Alipay/WeChat Pay | Ubiquitous | Everywhere, including tiny vendors |
| Cash | Declining but still useful | Small shops, older generations, rural areas |
What If I Prefer Cash? Is It Easy to Use in Nanjing?
Carrying cash in Nanjing isn’t impossible, but it’s less convenient than in Western countries. Many young vendors outright refuse bills, especially larger denominations. ATMs are widely available but often located inside banks, which can be less accessible than standalone machines. For example, in busy districts like Xinjiekou or Confucius Temple, smaller shops might wave you off if you try to pay with cash. However, markets selling souvenirs or snacks (e.g., Yiwu Market) and older family-run restaurants typically accept bills. Pro tip: break larger bills (like 100 RMB) at supermarkets or hotel front desks to avoid awkward exchanges.
Are There Alternatives to Apple Pay in Nanjing?
Absolutely—Alipay and WeChat Pay are your best friends in Nanjing. These apps aren’t just for payments; they also let you book subway rides, skip lines at attractions, and even scan QR codes for museum tickets. Tourists can set them up without a Chinese bank account:
- Alipay: Link a Visa/MasterCard under the “Tourist Passport” option.
- WeChat Pay: Use the “WeChat Pay HK/Macau” version with an international credit card. Most taxis, buses, and vendors use these apps exclusively. For example, when buying dumplings at a stall near Qinhuai River, the vendor will likely point to a QR code instead of saying, “No cash?” in English.
How Can I Avoid Payment Issues During My Trip?
To stay stress-free in Nanjing, combine multiple strategies:
- Download Alipay/WeChat Pay: Set them up before arriving. Use them for everything from street food to subway fare.
- Keep a stash of cash: For places that don’t take digital payments, carry small bills (10-50 RMB).
- Use credit cards strategically: Reserve them for hotels, tours, and souvenir shopping at certified stores.
- Ask locals for help: If stuck, younger Nanjing residents often jump at the chance to assist tourists with payments—they’re proud of their tech-savvy city!
By blending digital wallets, cash, and credit cards, you’ll glide through Nanjing’s bustling markets and historic sites without payment panic. Just remember: in a city where QR codes rule, a little prep goes a long way!