First Time in Xi’an: A Traveler’s Guide to Navigating RMB Payments Like a Local

Landing in Xi’an, my first thought wasn’t just about the Terracotta Warriors or the ancient city walls—though those were definitely on my list. It was something more practical: How am I going to pay for things here? I’d heard China was a “cashless society,” but as a first-time visitor, the idea of navigating a new currency (RMB) and payment system felt a bit daunting. After a week of exploring, eating, and getting slightly lost (okay, very lost), I’ve learned a ton. So, let me break down everything you need to know about RMB payments in Xi’an—no jargon, just real talk from someone who’s been there.

First Things First: Get Some Cash (Yes, Really!)

Before I dive into mobile payments, let’s talk cash. Even though China is big on digital transactions, you will still need physical RMB—especially in small neighborhoods, street markets, or with older vendors. I learned this the hard way when I tried to buy a steaming bowl of yangrou paomo (mutton soup) at a tiny family-run eatery and the owner just stared at my Visa card like it was a foreign object.

First Time in Xi’an: A Traveler’s Guide to Navigating RMB Payments Like a Local

How to get RMB cash:

• At the airport/train station: As soon as you land at Xi’an Xianyang International Airport or Xi’an Railway Station, head to the Bank of China or Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) counters. They exchange foreign currency (USD, EUR, JPY, etc.) to RMB. You’ll need your passport. Pro tip: Exchange a small amount here (like ¥500–¥1000) to cover immediate expenses—taxis, snacks, or your first metro ride. Airport exchange rates aren’t the best, but it’s convenient for emergencies.
• ATMs: If you run out of cash, ATMs are everywhere—banks, 7-Elevens, even some malls. Look for machines with the “UnionPay” logo (China’s bank card network). If your home bank card (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) is compatible, you can withdraw RMB directly. My Canadian Visa worked fine, but my friend’s American Express had issues, so check with your bank beforehand. ATMs usually have a daily limit (around ¥3000–¥5000, depending on your bank).
• Banks in the city: For better exchange rates, visit a local bank branch (Bank of China, ICBC, or China Construction Bank) in downtown areas like Bell Tower or South Street. You’ll need your passport, and some may ask for a small form (fill it out—they’ll help).

What about coins and bills? RMB comes in bills (¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥20, ¥50, ¥100) and coins (¥1, ¥0.5, ¥0.1). The ¥100 bill is the most common for larger expenses, but keep smaller bills (¥20, ¥10) for markets or taxis—drivers often can’t break ¥100. Coins are useful for bus fares or vending machines, but most places accept bills.

Mobile Payments: The Game Changer (But It’s Tricky for Tourists)

Okay, now the fun part: China’s mobile payment system. Apps like Alipay (支付宝) and WeChat Pay (微信支付) are everywhere—street vendors, convenience stores, even street performers! But here’s the catch: These apps are tied to Chinese bank accounts or phone numbers, which most tourists don’t have. Don’t worry, though—there are workarounds.

Option 1: Alipay’s “Tour Pass” (Easiest for Beginners)

Alipay, run by Alibaba, has a “Tour Pass” feature designed for foreigners. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Download Alipay from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Open the app and tap “+” (plus sign) in the top-left corner, then select “Tour Pass.”
3. Enter your passport details and upload a photo of your passport.
4. Link a foreign credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard, etc.). I used my Canadian Visa, and it worked seamlessly.
5. You’ll get a virtual “Tour Pass” card in Alipay, which you can use to scan QR codes at stores.

How to use it: At most shops, vendors will display a QR code (green for Alipay, blue/green for WeChat). Open Alipay, tap the “扫一扫” (Scan) button, and scan the code. Enter the amount, confirm, and you’re done! It’s as fast as tapping a card.

Pros: Super easy to set up, widely accepted, and you can track your spending.
Cons: There’s a small fee (around 3%) for linking foreign cards, but it’s worth the convenience.

Option 2: WeChat Pay (If You Use WeChat)

WeChat Pay is similar to Alipay but integrated into WeChat (China’s “super app”). If you already use WeChat, you can add a foreign card:

1. Open WeChat, go to “Me” → “Services” → “Wallet.”
2. Tap “Payment Methods” → “Add Bank Card.”
3. Enter your card details and passport info.

Note: Some vendors prefer WeChat Pay (especially in restaurants or cafes), but Alipay is more universal for tourists. I carried both, just in case.

Option 3: “Proxy Payment” (If You Have Chinese Friends)

If you’re traveling with a Chinese friend or meet a local who’s willing to help, you can pay them in cash, and they can pay via mobile app. This is a last resort, though—most tourists don’t want to hassle strangers with money stuff.

Where to Use Cash vs. Mobile Payments

To save you from awkward moments, here’s a quick breakdown of when to use what:

Common Payment Pitfalls (and How to Avoid Them)

1. “No Foreign Cards” Sign: Some small shops (especially in touristy areas) may have signs saying “No Visa/Mastercard.” Don’t panic—they almost always take Alipay/WeChat if you have Tour Pass set up.
2. Running Out of Data: Mobile payments need internet! If you don’t have a Chinese SIM card, buy a tourist eSIM at the airport (China Unicom or China Mobile offers tourist plans with 5–10GB of data for ¥100–¥200). Alternatively, use Wi-Fi in cafes/hotels to top up your balance.
3. Fake Bills: It’s rare, but always check your cash. Hold the bill up to the light—you should see a watermark of Mao Zedong and a security thread. If it feels flimsy or the colors are off, ask to exchange it.
4. Taxis and Small Change: Taxis often don’t have change for ¥100 bills. If your fare is ¥25, give them a ¥20 bill and a ¥5 coin to avoid waiting.

My Top Tip: Prepare a “Payment Mix”

Here’s what worked for me:

• Cash: ¥500 in small bills (¥10, ¥20, ¥50) and some coins for buses/markets.
• Alipay Tour Pass: Linked to my Visa card for 90% of purchases.
• Credit Card: Backup for big expenses (hotel, train tickets to other cities).

By having all three, I never felt stressed. Whether I was buying a ¥5 jianbing (Chinese crepe) or a ¥200 entry ticket to the Terracotta Army, I was covered.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Stress—You’ve Got This!

Xi’an is an incredible city, and the payment system is actually designed to make life easier. Yes, there’s a learning curve, but within a day, you’ll be scanning QR codes like a local. The key is to come prepared with a little cash, set up Alipay Tour Pass before you arrive, and stay calm if something doesn’t work—Chinese people are super helpful, and most shopkeepers will gladly guide you through the process.

Now, go enjoy that roujiamo (Chinese hamburger) and explore the ancient city. And remember: when in doubt, flash a smile and point to your phone—someone will help you pay. Happy travels!