Generally, eastern China is much more expensive than the west of the country. The main drain on savings tends to be long train journeys. However, the bottom line is that you'll be charged 'tourist price' a lot of the time - it's a practice encouraged by the government. Foreign currency and travellers' cheques can be changed at the main branches of the Bank of China, the tourist hotels, Friendship Stores and some department stores.
Hotels usually charge the official rate.
You will need to keep your exchange receipts if you want to change any of your remaining RMB at the end of your trip. Cards can be used in most mid to top-range hotels, Friendship and department stores, but cannot be used to finance your transportation costs. You can bargain in shops, street stalls, and hotels - but not in large stores. The basic unit is the yuan . Inc. Click here for assistance , or to read our privacy policy .