Xinjiang runs on a mix of cash, WeChat Pay, and Alipay — and foreign cards are the awkward guest. Get this sorted early and you’ll glide; ignore it and you’ll be that traveler begging a stranger to scan a QR code for you.
Cash vs Digital
China is near cashless. In cities you pay with WeChat Pay or Alipay by scanning a QR. The catch: linking a foreign card works but is flaky, and many vendors are cashless. Carry ¥300–500 cash as backup, especially in villages and bazaars.
Getting Cash
<< have the most reliable ones. Withdraw ¥2,000–3,000 per go — fees run ¥15–30 plus your bank’s cut. Tell your home bank you’re traveling or the card may block.Foreign Card Linking
Alipay now supports binding international cards (with a passport). It’s the single most useful setup — once linked, you scan and pay like a local. WeChat Pay’s foreign card support is narrower. Do this on arrival at the airport with Wi-Fi.
Bargaining
Bazaars and small shops expect haggling:
- Sunday Bazaar (Kashgar): carpets, hats, knives — start at 50–60% of asking.
- Jade & souvenirs: huge markup; walk away if pressured.
- Fixed-price: supermarkets, malls, chain restaurants, ride-hailing.
Rule: smile, joke, never show desperation. If you love it at a fair price, buy it.
Tipping
Not customary in China, including Xinjiang. No tip at restaurants or for taxis. Tour guides appreciate a small tip but it’s optional.
Safety
Use a money belt in crowded bazaars. Pickpockets target tourists at the Kashgar Sunday market. Don’t flash large wads.
FAQ
Can I use USD? Only at banks for exchange; not at shops.
Are cards accepted at hotels? Big-city hotels yes; small guesthouses often cash/WeChat only.
What if my card is eaten by an ATM? Bank of China branches recover it; bring passport and allow a few days.