Credit cards are very useful while touring around China. Before you go, when booking a tour online, you should pay with your credit card through a reliable online payment system. Chinatour360.com currently accepts VISA, MasterCard, JCM and Diners Card.
Using an International Credit Card
During your stay in China, you can use your credit card for shopping or when checking in at a hotel. Many large shopping malls, brand chain stores, starred hotels and even some scenic spots accept Chinese and popular international credit cards, such as Visa, MasterCard, America Express, Dinners Club, JCB, Federal and Million.
The ATMs of some banks, such as Bank of China, China Merchant Bank and Industrial and Commercial Bank of China accept international cards. ATMs dispense Chinese currency which will be deducted from your account according to the exchange rate and the bank's policies. When you withdraw money with your card, a commission or handling fee will be charged, which could be an unexpectedly large amount. Therefore Chinatour360.com suggests you exchange sufficient Chinese Yuan beforehand or withdraw money with a debt card.
Tip:
When you pay with your credit card or withdraw money from an ATM machine, make sure that the payment system or ATM accepts your card. For instance, if there's no logo of MasterCard on an ATM, you can not use your MasterCard on that machine.
Using a Chinese Credit Card
Most transactions can be conducted using the Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) with a Chinese credit card, though not all machines accept deposits. ATMs usually offer services in both Chinese and English. The ATMs are found in most cities, except some remote areas.
Inter-bank services are available using a Chinese card with a symbol of 'UnionPay (银联)'. But be aware of the service charges, usually CNY 2 for one withdrawal. A commission, usually 1% of the withdrawal amount, is applied when a Chinese card is used outside the city where it is issued. The amount you can withdrawal is in multiple of hundreds, e.g. CNY100, CNY 200, CNY 500, etc.. The normal single withdrawal limit is CNY 2,000 - 3,000, and CNY 20,000 daily.
Tips in Using the ATMs in China:
1. On inputting your password, use your hand, body, bag or other things to cover the keyboard, to prevent your password being noted by others. Do not let the card out of your sight when using the machine.
2. If you are withdrawing a large amount of money, take someone with you for safety, or use the counter service. Avoid using side streets when leaving the bank; always withdraw money during the day.
3. If some accident happens when using the machine, for example, your card is held back by the machine, please dial the customer service number of your card immediately. Do not trust the contact number posted near the machine. Do not give your password to anyone, even if he/she claims to represent the bank.
4. If you lose your card, please inform the bank immediately by telephone. You must also report in person at the bank within three days to confirm the card loss.
