What Currency Does China Use?
Facts last checked 31 August 2026.
Exchange rate (approximate):
1 USD ≈ 6.79 CNY
1 GBP ≈ 9.1026 CNY
Rates are indicative (July 2026) and change daily. Always check live rates before travelling. Rates by Exchange Rate API.
Travel Money Card
Travelling to China? Avoid poor airport exchange rates — a prepaid travel money card or multi-currency card usually gets you a far better deal on Chinese yuan spending.
What is money called in China?
Money in China is called the Chinese yuan — its ISO 4217 currency code is CNY, and its symbol is ¥. The Chinese yuan is the official legal tender in China and is used for all everyday transactions — from paying for goods and services to converting money at banks and exchange bureaus. When travelling, you may also see it referred to as the China currency or simply money in China.
Is the Chinese yuan used anywhere else?
No — China is the only country on this site using the Chinese yuan as its official currency.
Practical money tips for China
Card payments are widely accepted in most cities, but it's still worth carrying some Chinese yuan in cash for smaller vendors, local transport and rural areas. Notify your bank before travelling to avoid transactions being blocked, and compare card fees — many cards charge a foreign transaction fee that a dedicated travel money card avoids.
Planning to visit China?
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Money essentials for China
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China currency — FAQ
What is the currency of China?
The currency of China is the Chinese yuan (currency code: CNY, symbol: ¥).
What is the currency code for China?
The ISO 4217 currency code for the Chinese yuan is CNY.
What is the Chinese yuan symbol?
The symbol for the Chinese yuan is ¥. You will see this on price tags and receipts throughout China.
What currency is used in China?
The official currency used in China is the Chinese yuan (CNY).
Can I use US dollars in China?
The official currency of China is the Chinese yuan, not the US dollar. While USD may be accepted in some tourist hotels and major cities, you will generally get better rates paying in Chinese yuan and should exchange money before or on arrival.
What is the exchange rate for China?
As of July 2026, approximately 1 USD = 6.79 CNY and 1 GBP = 9.1026 CNY. Rates change daily — always check a live source before travelling or sending money.
What is money called in China?
Money in China is called the Chinese yuan (CNY).
Do other countries use the Chinese yuan?
No — China is the only country on this site using the Chinese yuan as its official currency.
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