Traveling independently in China without a Chinese phone number or bank card? Totally possible! This step-by-step guide shows you how to register, pay, take buses, subways, and taxis — all from start to finish.
1. Download & Register Alipay
- Download the Alipay app
- Select your country (Malaysia, Singapore, etc.)
- Enter your foreign phone number
- Input the verification code — registration done!
2. Complete Identity Verification
- Go to Me (bottom right)
- Tap the small arrow in the top right → Profile
- Choose ID Information
- Complete verification with your passport (photo upload required)
3. Bind Your Foreign Card
- Back to Profile → Bank Cards
- Add your card following instructions
Supported cards:
- Credit cards
- WISE cards
- GX cards (works but slightly slower)
Not supported:
- Regular debit cards
You can bind multiple cards and switch freely.
For the Alipay registration process, please referhttps://nomadlifechina.com/free-rides-no-scams-ride-chinas-driverless-buses-2026-guide/ to the previous article.
4. Take Buses & Subways (Super Easy QR Code)
- Back to Alipay homepage → Transport
- Select your city (Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, etc.)
- Tap to activate the bus/subway QR code
- Fill in basic info — your QR code is ready in seconds
Just scan the QR code to enter stations. Money is deducted automatically from your bound card.
- Some cities need separate bus + subway QR codes
- Many cities support all-in-one QR code for both bus and subway
5. Take Didi Taxis (No Extra App Needed)
- On the Alipay homepage, find Didi
- If you can’t see it: tap More → search “Didi”
- Register and book rides just like you do at home
Pro Tips for Foreign Travelers
✅ No Chinese phone number needed
✅ No Chinese bank card required
✅ Use for meals, tickets, subways, taxis, and food delivery
Even traveling with parents is smooth and stress-free. No more waiting in line to buy subway tickets!