Japan’s JCB has announced that JCB cardholders can now use their contactless cards to access the subway systems in Shanghai and Beijing without the need to purchase tickets in advance.

The new service allows JCB cardmembers to tap their contactless cards at subway gates or designated readers to pay fares directly.

It is now available to overseas travellers and applies to all underground lines in both cities.

In Shanghai, this includes all 21 lines and 517 stations; in Beijing, the service covers all 29 lines and 523 stations. Airport routes are also supported.

This marks the first instance of contactless subway payments being made available to international cardholders in mainland China, expanding digital payment options for visitors.

Featured image credit: JCB