More than a travel tool, the app serves as a digital bridge connecting visitors to daily life in China, supporting smoother cross-border services and deeper people-to-people exchanges.
One app, all payments
Getting started is easy. Users can register with an email address or log in directly through Apple accounts and then bind international bank cards including UnionPay, Visa and Mastercard issued outside mainland China. The app displays real-time exchange rates for more than 160 currencies.
For online payments, “Nihao China” connects to more than 300 platforms, including train tickets via 12306, food delivery via Meituan and Ele.me (Taobao Shangou), hotel bookings on Ctrip and shopping on JD.com.
For shopping scenarios, the app integrates the acceptance networks of UnionPay, Alipay and WeChat Pay, allowing users to scan all QR codes with one app in more than 1,000 service scenarios.
The app also facilitates tax refunds in major cities including Beijing and Shanghai, with plans to gradually expand the service to cover all tax refund scenarios for international visitors across China, delivering a more efficient and convenient refund experience.
Seamless mobility across China
The app covers metro systems in 43 major Chinese cities and public bus networks in more than 1,760 provincial-level regions, creating a payment network for rail and bus. You do not need to purchase separate public transport tickets; you just tap and go.
The English map helps you locate ATMs, exchange offices and other essential services nearby based on your location.
Smart tools, zero language barriers
Real-time translation supports Chinese-English conversations, with smart recognition added for Japanese, Korean, Arabic and Russian. In-app page translation ensures smooth navigation in your native language.
The app’s smart assistant goes beyond translation, answering questions about attractions, transportation and dining while providing customized route planning that combines public transportation, walking and other travel modes.
Upcoming improvements and service expansion
The app will continue to evolve with upcoming features including integrated visa services such as application guidance, appointment booking and status tracking; virtual SIM card activation for instant mobile data upon arrival; and one-tap reservations for popular museums and scenic spots, including the National Museum of China.
Building a more inclusive payments ecosystem for international travelers
In addition to the “Nihao China” app, more than 200 million UnionPay cards and more than 200 UnionPay partner wallets issued outside mainland China have so far been able to make seamless payments in 183 countries and regions worldwide, especially in China.
In addition, UnionPay has introduced more than 10 million SplendorPlus cards to 59 issuers in 20 international markets, providing benefits for five categories of selected merchants, including VIP lounges at airports, transportation, tourist attractions, culture, arts and gastronomy for those traveling, studying or working in China.
UnionPay remains committed to improving its acceptance network, products and services to create a more user-friendly and secure payment experience for international visitors.
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Published on December 25, 2025
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