In April of this year, during myexperience with a foreign client in Beijing, we encountered a limitation: itwas not possible to use Alipay and WeChat for payments at the self-serviceticket machines, nor could we use the Alipay Metro QR code to access the metroservices.

Now, I am pleased to share some goodnews: The limitation is no longer there.

Foreign passport holders with overseasmobile numbers can now apply for a QR code to use the metro in Beijing. Thisnew feature is likely available in most major cities across China.

Click on transport, and you will seeall the available modes of transportation. (Since I already have a Beijing QRcode, I changed the location to Wuhan to demonstrate what a first-time userwould see):

Click Get now and enter yourpassport number and full name. Then, click to agree with the terms andconditions, and you will receive a QR code. Aim the QR code at the scannerlocated at the entrance of the subway, and you will be able to enter.

You can also use Alipay and WeChat forpayments at the self-service ticket machines.

The above 2 options apply to DaxingAirport Express(Metro line Daxing airport-Caoqiao) and Capital AirportExpress(Capital Airport-Beixinqiao) too.

The only problem is that sometimes the internet connection for overseas mobile phones may not be good underground, which could result in failure to use them.

The QR code for buses inBeijing has been accessible to overseas mobile phones for a long time.

If you go to another city, change thelocation and you will get the QR ccode of that location.

Yours Truly

Angie Guo – China CharmissionTravel