How to pay with your phone: scan, or show your code
There are only two ways to pay by phone in China. Here's which one to use and when.
Last checked · reviewed quarterly
This page is past its review date and may be out of date. Please check the official sources below before you rely on it.
Photo walkthrough coming soonWe only publish steps after checking every screen on a real phone in China. Until then, use the overview below and the official links.
| You scan their code | They scan your code | |
|---|---|---|
| Where | Small shops, market stalls, taxis, some restaurants | Supermarkets, convenience stores, chain shops |
| You do | Scan → type amount → confirm | Show your payment code |
| Check | The amount, and the shop name on the screen | The amount on the cashier's screen |
Both Alipay and WeChat Pay work both ways.