When traveling in China, having the right travel card can make things way easier and more affordable. Whether you’re using public transport, shopping, or visiting attractions, here are some of the best cards to consider:
1. Public Transport Cards (e.g., Metro Cards)
- Where it works: Metro, buses, and some taxis.
- Popular cards: Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen all have their own transport cards, like:
- Beijing Transportation Card
- Shanghai Transportation Card (Tongka)
- Guangzhou Yangcheng Tong
- Shenzhen Tong
- Why it’s great: These cards are super convenient for getting around on the metro, buses, and even some taxis. They’re usually cheaper than buying single tickets and can be recharged easily.
- How to get it: You can buy these cards at subway stations, bus stations, or convenience stores and top them up as needed.
- Tip: If you’re staying in a city for a while or plan on taking public transport a lot, this card will save you time and money.
2. UnionPay Card
- Where it works: Shopping, hotels, restaurants, attractions, and more.
- Why it’s great: UnionPay is China’s major bank card system, and it’s accepted everywhere—stores, malls, and even ATMs. You can get a UnionPay credit or debit card that works both in China and internationally.
- How to get it: You can apply for a UnionPay card from local Chinese banks or international banks that offer UnionPay-branded cards.
- Tip: If you’re staying in China for a longer period or doing bigger purchases, a UnionPay card is a must-have for easy payments and ATM withdrawals.
3. Alipay and WeChat Pay
- Where it works: Almost everywhere—stores, restaurants, tourist attractions, and online shopping.
- Why it’s great: Alipay and WeChat Pay aren’t exactly “travel cards” but they’re by far the most popular ways to pay in China. You can link them to your international credit card or a Chinese bank account.
- How it works: Simply download the Alipay or WeChat app, link your card or bank account, and you’re good to go! You can pay for anything from street food to luxury shopping, plus it’s great for taking taxis or booking tickets.
- Tip: These apps are super convenient and nearly every place in China accepts them. If you’re doing any kind of shopping or even just grabbing a bite to eat, you’ll be using one of these apps.
4. City Travel Passes
- Where it works: Entry to major tourist attractions, cultural activities, and sometimes public transport.
- Popular passes: Many cities and tourist spots offer special travel passes, like:
- Beijing Pass: Covers many of Beijing’s top attractions like the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and Summer Palace.
- Shanghai Pass: Good for Shanghai’s popular sites like the Shanghai Museum and Oriental Pearl Tower.
- Why it’s great: These passes usually give you discounted or skip-the-line access to major attractions, and some also cover transport, which makes them great value.
- How to get it: You can usually buy them online, at tourist information centers, or at the attractions themselves.
- Tip: If you’re planning on visiting several big tourist spots in one city, these passes can save you both time and money.
5. China Rail Pass
- Where it works: China’s trains, especially high-speed trains.
- Why it’s great: If you’re planning to travel around China by train, the Rail Pass offers unlimited travel for a certain period, making it a great deal if you’re visiting multiple cities.
- How it works: You can buy the pass online or at train stations. It works for both high-speed and regular trains.
- Tip: If you’re traveling across China by train, this pass is definitely worth considering—it gives you flexibility and can save money if you’re making several long-distance trips.
Summary
- Best for public transport: If you’ll be using public transport a lot, go for a city transport card. It’s simple and affordable.
- Best for payments: UnionPay is the most widely accepted card for payments, while Alipay and WeChat Pay are super convenient for everything else.
- Best for sightseeing: City travel passes are great if you’re planning to visit a lot of tourist spots in one city.
- Best for trains: If you’re doing a lot of traveling between cities, the China Rail Pass is your friend.
Pick the card that fits your travel plans and you’ll have a much smoother trip around China!