Renminbi (RMB) is legal tender on the Chinese mainland. At present, banknotes are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 yuan.

Currency exchange services are available at bank outlets displaying currency exchange signs, outlets of authorized financial institutions, self-service kiosks, service points at Shanghai's international airports, and pilot foreign currency exchange outlets at Hongqiao Airport Terminal 2 Station and Pudong Airport Terminal 1&2 Station.

Currency exchange at airports

At airports, foreign currency exchange is available through bank counters, licensed currency exchange points, and self-service machines, depending on the terminal and service point. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash in newer, undamaged banknotes, as some banks may have requirements regarding the condition or series of banknotes. Exchange rates may vary by bank or service provider.

Currency exchange machines

Exchange rates at self-service currency exchange machines may differ from those at bank counters.

ATMs

ATMs are generally available at the airport, often near bank branches. ATMs and cash-recycling machines displaying the relevant international payment network logos allow visitors to withdraw RMB using overseas bank cards.

Currency exchange at banks

The following banks provide currency exchange services:

State-owned banks

Bank of China, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, China Construction Bank, Agricultural Bank of China, and Bank of Communications

Joint-stock commercial banks

Shanghai Pudong Development Bank, Industrial Bank Co Ltd, China Merchants Bank, and China CITIC Bank

Foreign banks

Standard Chartered Bank, HSBC Bank

While these banks provide foreign exchange services, not all of their outlets offer this service. Look for the green "EXCHANGE" sign, which is typically displayed outside bank branches that provide this service.

Updated July 1, 2026 

Sources: govt.chinadaily.com.cn, citynewsservice.cn