The Guardian recently ran a headline proclaiming “Cash is king” in China. However, this assertion seems outdated to many who have visited the country in recent years. If you don’t have the WeChat Pay or Alipay apps on your phone, navigating China’s modern society can be challenging. While the full headline acknowledges China’s transition to a cashless society, the reality is that cash is becoming increasingly rare, especially in major cities. According to Google searches, China ranks among the countries least reliant on physical currency, trailing only behind Norway, Finland, and Sweden. However, this shift poses challenges for both elderly citizens who struggle with digital payment systems and foreign tourists who may feel unwelcome in a cashless environment. Despite recent developments allowing international credit cards to be linked to payment apps like WeChat and Alipay, limitations and restrictions remain, hindering the seamless use of these platforms for foreign visitors. The Chinese government has recognized these issues and has taken steps to address them, including issuing guidelines to improve financial arrangements for tourists and broadening acceptance of foreign payment methods. These efforts aim to enhance the convenience of payment services for foreigners and make China more accessible to international visitors. Additionally, in response to overcrowding and environmental concerns, measures are being implemented to regulate access to Mount Fuji, one of Japan’s iconic landmarks. These include restrictions on the number of climbers allowed per day and the implementation of tolls at certain entry points to manage foot traffic and preserve the natural beauty of the mountain.
