China - October 18, 2024

China's Shenzhen allows point-of-sale subway ticketing with foreign bank cards

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International travelers to the southern Chinese tech hub Shenzhen are now enjoying a smoother ride on the city's metro system, thanks to improved point-of-sale ticketing options for foreign bank card holders.

Starting in early October, six banking institutions are accepted for point-of-sale ticket purchases at all subway stations in the city, including Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Diners Club and JCB.

Officials say the service was extended citywide after a successful pilot program at selected stations.

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Qiu Guowei, director, Gangxia North Station, Shenzhen Metro:

"There are quite a few foreign tourists. Initially, we piloted the service at eight stations connected to transportation hubs and key ports, such as Gangxia North and Shenzhen North. Now, we have installed smart POS machines at customer service centers in all 391 stations across the network to facilitate payments for foreign passengers taking the Shenzhen Metro."

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So far, the new service has been well received by tourists traveling from abroad.

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Russian tourist:

"It’s like three seconds. It’s very comfortable, because it’s new, so many stations and it’s really easy to pay."

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In addition to foreign bank cards, Shenzhen Metro also accepts point-of-sale ticket purchases with digital yuan bank cards.

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