How to Pay Bus Fare with Your Phone in Shenzhen

By Bailey Hu, January 24, 2018

As of last Friday, Shenzhen commuters can now use their phones to pay for bus fare.

We've put together a handy guide on how to take advantage of this latest upgrade to Shenzhen buses, which makes use of a WeChat mini-program rather than a separately downloaded app. Just follow these simple steps to get started.

Step 1: Find the mini program

After opening WeChat, navigate to the 'Discover' tab and select 'Mini Programs.' Next, search '深圳通+' (Shenzhen Tong) and select the first result.

Step 2: Confirm your phone number

As shown in the picture above, enter your phone number, click 'Send' and wait for the confirmation code. Easy, right?

Step 3: Bind your WeChat Pay

You'll be taken to a page informing you that you need to bind your WeChat Pay account. Check the box to say that you consent to the terms of agreement (click the blue link to actually read them) and select 'Bind now.'

The next page tells you a little about what the mini program does. Here's a summary: The 'Shenzhen Tong QR code service' is compatible with buses and in the future, subway. The payment method automatically deducts money without the use of a passcode, but if you decide to cancel the service, the automatic deductions stop (obviously).

Click 'Open automatic payment' to continue.

You'll be prompted to enter your WeChat Pay passcode to once again verify your identity.

Step 4: Start scanning!

You're ready to start scanning! Hold your QR code up to the scanning machine and the cost of the fare will automatically be deducted. Tap the blue words to refresh and refrain from scanning a single code multiple times.

If you need to pay outstanding fares, switch to the 'Me' tab on the right. Here you can also access your payment history or, if you decide Shenzhen Tong QR codes aren't your thing, cancel the service.

Keep in mind that if you do cancel, due to a 'backend verification' process the change may take five to seven working days to complete.