Money Matters in China
Real-time exchange rates, payment guide, and financial tips for your Yunnan trip
Currency Converter
Exchange Rate
1 USD = 7.24 CNY(Updated daily)
Quick Reference
How to Pay in China
💳Alipay
Most widely accepted. Download the app and link your international card.
Advantages:
- ✓Accepted everywhere
- ✓Easy setup
- ✓Real-time translation
Setup:
Download Alipay → Add international card → Verify identity
💬WeChat Pay
Very popular. Requires WeChat account and international card.
Advantages:
- ✓Ubiquitous
- ✓Integrated with WeChat
- ✓QR code payments
Setup:
Get WeChat → Add Wallet → Link international card
💵Cash (CNY)
Still useful in rural areas and small shops.
Advantages:
- ✓Always works
- ✓No tech needed
- ✓Good for tipping
Setup:
Exchange at banks or ATMs. Avoid street exchangers.
💳Credit Cards
Visa/Mastercard accepted at major hotels and upscale restaurants.
Advantages:
- ✓Convenient
- ✓Travel insurance
- ✓No setup
Setup:
Inform your bank about travel. Check foreign transaction fees.
Money Tips for Travelers
Cash vs Digital
China is 95% cashless. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay before arrival.
Keep 500-1000 CNY cash for:
- • Rural areas
- • Small vendors
- • Temples (donations)
- • Emergency backup
Digital Payment Setup
Before you arrive:
- • Download Alipay/WeChat
- • Link international card
- • Enable location services
- • Take screenshots of setup
Some banks block Chinese apps - contact them first
ATM & Banking
Bank of China and ICBC ATMs accept most international cards.
Tips:
- • Daily limit: 2,500-3,000 CNY
- • Fees: ~25-50 CNY per withdrawal
- • Best rates at bank ATMs
- • Avoid hotel exchange desks
Daily Budget Guide
Budget
- • Hostel dorm: ¥40-80
- • Street food: ¥30-60
- • Local transport: ¥20-40
- • Attractions: ¥50-150
- • Misc: ¥60-70
Mid-Range
- • 3-star hotel: ¥200-350
- • Restaurants: ¥100-200
- • Private transport: ¥80-150
- • Tours/guides: ¥150-250
- • Misc: ¥70-150
Luxury
- • 5-star hotel: ¥800-2000
- • Fine dining: ¥300-600
- • Private car: ¥300-500
- • Premium tours: ¥500-1000
- • Shopping: ¥500+