Currency and Payment
With the ongoing development of the Hainan Free Trade Port, making payments in Sanya has become smoother than ever. To ensure you enjoy a hassle-free experience in our “Inbound Consumer-Friendly” environment, we have compiled a comprehensive guide covering everything from currency basics to the seven major payment methods—ranging from traditional cash to cutting-edge digital options.
Currency & Banking Essentials
The Basics China’s official currency is the Renminbi (RMB). The basic unit is the Yuan (¥).
Banknotes: Available in denominations of ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥20, ¥50, and ¥100.
Coins: Available in ¥1, as well as 1 and 5 Jiao (fractional currency).
Exchange & Withdrawals You can exchange currency at the airport, hotels, and major bank branches (such as the Bank of China and ICBC). Additionally, ATMs at major tourist attractions support cash withdrawals using international bank cards.
Banking Hours
Weekdays: Typically 8:30 – 17:00.
Weekends: Typically 10:00 – 16:00 (Hours may vary by specific branch).
7 Ways to Pay in Sanya
1. Link International Cards to WeChat or Alipay (⭐ Highly Recommended)
This is the most widely accepted and convenient method in China.
How it works: Simply download the WeChat or Alipay app, register with your international phone number, and link your overseas bank card (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Discover, Diners Club, etc.).
The Experience: Once linked, you can scan QR codes to pay for almost everything—from street food to luxury hotels. It is the best way to experience the authentic local “cashless” lifestyle.
2. Pay Directly with Your Home E-Wallet
If you are visiting from Hong Kong SAR, South Korea, Thailand, or other select regions, you may not even need to download a new app.
How it works: Thanks to cross-border payment networks, you can simply open your local e-wallet (such as UnionPay HK/Macau, ICBC Macau, Thailand’s K PLUS, or South Korea’s Naver Pay—over 170 supported wallets) and scan the merchant’s Alipay or UnionPay QR code.
Where to try: We highly recommend visiting Sanya Joy City and Sanya Tianyue City, which have been upgraded as “Inbound Consumer-Friendly Districts” for a seamless scanning experience.
3. Credit Card Swipe (POS)
Physical cards are still widely used in premium establishments.
Where to use: Star-rated hotels, duty-free shops, large restaurants, and supermarket chains.
Accepted Cards: As long as the merchant displays logos for Visa, MasterCard, or American Express, you can pay by swiping your physical card.
4. Cash
While digital payments are dominant, cash is always accepted.
How to get it: Exchange foreign currency at airports, bank branches, and authorized exchange counters. ATMs at all major banks across the island allow you to withdraw RMB using international cards.
Travel Tip: We recommend keeping a small amount of cash on hand for minor expenses or emergencies.
5. “Hainan Trust Pay” (NFC Tap-to-Pay)
This is a pioneering service in Hainan designed for high-frequency, small-amount transactions, such as taxis.
How it works: If a merchant (e.g., a taxi driver) has enabled the “Hainan Trust Pay” app, you simply tap your NFC-enabled phone (using Apple Pay, etc.) or bank card against the back of the merchant’s phone to pay.
Safety: This service includes a specialized consumer protection mechanism, ensuring every transaction is transparent and secure.
Availability: Currently piloted in the Sanya taxi industry, this “Tap-to-Pay” experience will gradually expand to more dining, accommodation, and entertainment scenarios across the island.
6. Digital RMB (e-CNY)
Experience China’s cutting-edge digital currency.
How it works: Download the e-CNY (Digital RMB) app and register with your international phone number.
Hard Wallet: You can also use “Digital RMB Exchange Machines” to convert foreign cash into a physical “Hard Wallet” card, which allows you to pay by simply tapping the card on a POS terminal.
7. Tour Mate Card
A great alternative if you prefer not to link your primary bank card.
How it works: Apply for a “Tour Mate Card” directly within the UnionPay app.
The Experience: Think of it as a temporary prepaid virtual card. Once topped up, you can use it to scan and pay at any merchant across the island that accepts UnionPay QR codes. It is simple, fast, and convenient.